Amber O’Neal Johnston is an author, speaker, and world-schooling mama who blends life-giving books and a culturally rich environment for her four children and others seeking to do the same.
She loves to offer children opportunities to see themselves and others reflected in their lessons, especially throughout their books, and she’s known for sharing literary “mirrors and windows” on HeritageMom.com and @heritagemomblog (IG).
Amber is also the author of A Place to Belong, a guide for families of all backgrounds to celebrate cultural heritage, diversity, and kinship while embracing inclusivity in the home and beyond.
Come and say hello to Amber! Have her personally sign her book for you on Friday from 2:15 to 2:45, E-24 A/B.
Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture
Join Amber O’Neal Johnston, author of Soul School, as she takes you on an engaging journey through the heart of Black American culture using children’s literature as a guide. Based on her acclaimed book, this workshop is designed for homeschoolers who are eager to introduce more inclusive stories into their homes. Discover ways to use living stories to teach cultural values, historical highlights, and the power of storytelling. Receive guidance on how to use literature as a tool for cultural and historical education and walk away with practical tips for facilitating meaningful discussions and activities around diverse stories. Whether you’re looking to diversify your family’s “fun reads” bookshelf or enrich your curriculum, this session will equip you with everything you need to embark on a joy-filled journey through Black American culture—one book at a time.
Teaching Hard History in a Beautiful Way
Home educators are more motivated now than ever to have meaningful conversations with their children about our country’s complicated past and the forces that shaped the society we live in today. But most of us never learned about the tough topics in school, and the books traditionally read in homeschool circles rarely provide much assistance. During our time together, we’ll discuss how to approach hard history in our homes with honesty and compassion in an age-appropriate way.
Sparking Curiosity & Delight: Balancing Academics & Passion
What if your home atmosphere could ignite your children’s natural curiosity and bring joy to their academic journey? In this session, we’ll explore how to support your kids’ academic growth while embracing their unique passions and interests. Join us as we dive into practical strategies for creating a learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm thrive.
Discover how to encourage deep dives into topics that make your children come alive, while still meeting academic goals. Whether it’s building projects, exploring new hobbies, or pursuing niche interests, this session will help you find ways to integrate their passions into your homeschool days. You’ll leave inspired to reimagine your homeschool as a space that nurtures not just academic growth, but also the heart and imagination of your children.
Mama Culture: Why Your Personal Growth Matters in Homeschooling
In the midst of homeschooling, it’s easy for moms to put their own growth on hold. But a well-rounded mother, intellectually stimulated and joyfully fulfilled, is better equipped to teach and inspire her children. By nurturing yourself, you not only grow as an individual but also create a legacy of learning and fulfillment that enriches your entire family. This workshop introduces the empowering concept of “mama culture,” emphasizing the importance of personal development for homeschooling mothers. We’ll explore how lifelong learning, pursuing passions, intellectual stimulation, and emotional well-being can transform your homeschool journey—and your family’s life. Key topics include practical strategies for balancing your own enrichment with your children’s education, the benefits of modeling personal growth, and how to create a supportive network with other homeschooling moms.
