Robin Bond

Speaking about Homeschool Science and Much More

Upcoming Conferences

WHO Homeschool Conference 2019

Past Conferences

Note: everything pre-2017 was presented under the name Robin Schneider

InHome Conference (IL): 2006, 2009, 2011

HSC Home=Education Conference (CA): 2004, 2006, 2007

CHN Family Expo (CA): 2004, 2005, 2006

CHEFA (CA): 2006, 2008

LDSEHE Conference (VA): 2008

In addition to homeschool conferences, I have also presented at professional/technical conferences as well as a conference for science teachers (Colorado Science Conference: 2011, 2012, 2014).

Workshops

  • Workshops for Adults

    Everything I Needed to Know, I Learned as a Homeschool Mom

    If I really learned everything I needed to know in kindergarten, then why was my early adulthood so full of struggles? Now that I've left home to venture into the workplace, I see that my real lessons in success came during the fifteen years I spent as a homeschooling mom. When you learn these important lessons for yourself, you will realize that homeschooling benefits more than just your children.

    suitable for keynote address

    Raising Scientifically Literate Children

    Children study history and literature to become culturally literate. Why study science? To become scientifically literate, of course. Learn what goals your should have for your children's science program, how to adapt any curriculum to ensure scientific literacy, and how to help your children become the ultimate problem-solvers by thinking like scientists.

    Questions, Questions: Using the Socratic Method to Teach

    Parents sometimes feel bombarded with questions. This is not surprising since asking questions is one of the ways that children learn about the world. Wouldn't it be nice if children could answer their own questions? Well, they can--with your help. The Socratic Method uses focused questions to help your child move from what he already knows to what he wants to know. This workshop explains the theory behind the Socratic Method, gives a demonstration, then allows you to practice what you have learned.

    Raising Entrepreneurial Children

    From an educational point of view, homeschooled children are accustomed to a "small business" perspective rather than "factory learning." Why shouldn't they continue to follow this path as adults? Some children may even want to begin their business now! Parents can encourage the entrepreneurial spirit in their children by following the simple steps outlined in this session.

    Teaching Around the Cycle

    Maximize your children's education by learning about the Kolb cycle (Why? What? How? What if?) and discovering how to implement it in your homeschooling.

  • Workshops for Teens and Kids

    States of Matter, States of Fun

    Move past the ice, water, and water vapor discussion to understand why solids, liquids, and gases behave the way they do. Demonstrations, activities, and games make this workshop fun for children of all ages.

    Good Examples of Bad Experiments

    Do you have a science fair coming up? Or would you just like to try creating your own science experiment? This workshop teaches principles that differentiate well-designed experiments from poorly designed ones. You and your children will see concrete examples of the “wrong” way to do things. Not only can this be a lot of fun, it can be very educational as you learn from other people's mistakes. Lots of hands-on involvement make this workshop an unforgettable experience. (For children 10 and up and their parents.)

    Public Speaking 101

    Have you ever been asked to speak in a public setting? Did you feel scared, embarrassed, or incompetent—or even all three? If so, you need to attend this workshop! We will cover topics like dealing with anxiety, deciding what you're going to say, holding your audience's interest, and delivering your address properly. (For children 10 and up.)

    Round and Round it Goes: Biogeochemical Cycles

    Elements such as carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen are essential to life but may not be present in formats that are easily accessible to organisms. How do organisms interact with each other and with their environment to obtain the necessary elements? Concepts are explained through presentation and demonstration and then applied to both familiar ecosystems like a forest as well as unfamiliar ecosystems such as the ocean. (For ages 12 and up.)

  • Speaking For Your Conference

    Although my time is more limited now that I am working full time, I am available to speak at up to 2 conferences per year.

    Requirements: All travel expenses paid. Other reimbursement (speaker fees) dependent on size of conference. I am willing to negotiate.