Homeschool conference to support Midwestern families through special-needs resources, learning screenings

While Christy-Faith has more than 20 years’ experience coaching children of “A-listers and billionaires,” her newest initiative lies in helping homeschool parents – not celebrities.

“I’m on a mission to make sure homeschoolers don’t believe the lies,” the author of the book Homeschool Rising said in a recent video on the Midwest Parent Educators (MPE) Instagram account. “While society does feed us falsehoods, the lies that most concern me are the ones we tell ourselves.”

Christy is one of two featured speakers at the nonprofit’s homeschool conference and curriculum fair, which will be April 4-5 at the KCI Expo Center in Kansas City. 

Beyond an extensive array of more than 60 educational workshops, the conference also provides a vendor hall offering curriculum, teaching supplies and other local resources for attendees. 

“Some 55 years ago, my mom started homeschooling us,” Kevin Swanson, the conference keynote speaker, says in a video. “We’ve been through the hard times, the good times, the ups and downs. We’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way like every family, but I have to say we have seen the blessings of God through the generations.” 

‘Solid foundations for our children’ 

Swanson, who now homeschools his own five children in Colorado, urged current homeschoolers to catch a vision for raising up leaders not just in their own families, but nationwide. 

“As parents, this is the most important thing we do in our lives on Earth – prepare the next generation for life and for eternity,” he said. “Let’s build good foundations, solid foundations for our children, for their future.” 

Part of these foundations involves avoiding the constant feelings of overwhelm for the homeschool educator, Christy argues. 

“At times the pressure, and all of the plates that you’re holding up, and life’s demands just feel like too much,” she said in describing one of her workshops. “We’ll explore practical strategies to provide an enriching education without burnout, ensuring a great education and a peaceful home.” 

Christy also tackles topics such as resistance and motivation in learning, including math anxiety and special-needs challenges. 

“I lay out a research-backed guide for homeschooling your unique learners, whether you have a diagnosis or not.” 

The Midwest Parent Educators nonprofit has increased its number of special-needs resources over the years. For example, learning screenings in reading, speech and sensory motor skills will be offered again in 2025 after appearing for the first time at last year’s conference. 

“Screenings empower homeschool families to understand their child’s needs and find resources to help them in learning success,” MPE explains on its website, noting early detection and treatment can boost academic progress later. 

“This is a great opportunity to connect with a professional about your child’s communication.” 

Conference early bird registration ends March 15, although attendees can always sign up at the door if they miss advance pricing.