Preparing for the New Homeschool Year: 5 Essential Steps to Get Started
Hi, it has been a while since I’ve put out a blog post. I have been super busy. I have missed everyone though. I hope to get back into the swing of things in blogging land.
I know that we are officially into summer. We have the pool up and running after having to clean it out from winter. It looked like a baby alligator could have been lurking in there. Well not really, but it was definitely green. Anyways, I love swimming and I enjoy the best of summer, with church camp and family camping in our motorhome. Also, like I said swimming, lots of swimming.
However, summer will fly by and we will be beginning a new school year before we know it.
I know I know, it’s crazy how fast time goes by. Even my kids will tell me that. Since my last blog post, I had my last baby to turn 10 last month, double digits. How sad!
I digress. Anyways he was telling me how fast things are going. If you have a 10-year-old who thinks time goes by quickly, then surely there must be something to that fast time thing.
Anyways, in this post, we are going to Prepare for the New School Year with 5 Essential Steps to Get us Started.
As a fellow homeschooling mom with over 20 years of experience, I understand the excitement and busyness that comes with preparing for a new school year.
It’s a time filled with anticipation, planning and a touch of apprehension.
When I used the big box of books thing, I would just love to look at all the curriculum that came in them. We would have big plans when starting the new school year. Yet, by week two, those great expectations were already waning.
However, as much as I enjoyed checking out all the new school books. I am glad to use Monarch and Teaching Textbooks. Everything is online, so no fun books to look at, but no big mess to keep up with either.
If you are interested in checking out Monarch. Here is the link below.
That’s just how it was with us. We had lots of kids in school at the same time and it worked.
I really enjoy having the kids’ programs all online. It makes it very convenient and Monarch does all of my grading for me. With a big family that has helped through the years.
However, I just finished another child a month or two ago.
I will be schooling lite this year with only 3 kids to go. More about that time, moving fast. Woo wee!
So today, I be will guiding you through five essential steps to help you prepare for the upcoming homeschool year.
Grab yourself a cup of coffee or tea and let’s get in teacher-planning mode.
Step 1: Reflect and Set Goals
Looking back at last year is important for both seasoned and those moms that are just getting into homeschooling for the first time.
What worked for you last year? Did books work or did you try an online curriculum?
Some programs like Abeka, which has a great reading and phonics program, also are fast-moving programs.
Some children excel using Abeka, while other children may need a slower pace like perhaps, Bob Jones. Both of them are great programs. I have used them both.
Reflecting on your homeschooling experience from the last year allows you to celebrate your successes, spot areas that you can improve in, and plan accordingly this year with another approach.
It is an opportunity to learn from both things that worked
and things that didn’t.
I can think back to one of my children needing help in math. You can be sure, that math is not my expertise. That is one of the great things about homeschooling. There are always resources out there to help you.
That day would be no different. I ask God to help me with a program that would be able to teach Algebra.
Then I went inside and jumped on the computer at some
point and I came across Teaching Textbooks.
The previous curriculum just didn’t resonate with their learning styles as they got older. So, by examining what worked and didn’t work, I found a program that best suited my family’s needs.
It’s so important to be flexible when choosing resources for your family and reflecting back on your previous years and how that worked out for you.
I think about another time, when planning my school year, I decided to use the Ace program for my family. Depending upon what you are looking for in a curriculum it wasn’t bad either.
However, that program comes with multiple small books for each subject.
I had tons of books, and about 6 children doing it, and I was overwhelmed.
Look at some of these questions and think about where you are in these areas.
- What subjects or activities brought joy and excitement to my children’s learning experience?
- Were there any subjects or approaches that didn’t engage my children as much as I had hoped?
- Did my children struggle with specific concepts or skills that require additional attention?
- How did our daily routine and schedule work for us? Were there any adjustments that could enhance productivity and balance?
- What character traits or values did I witness my children develop throughout the year?
- Did we have enough time for social interactions and extracurricular activities?
Once you’ve reflected on these questions, it’s time to set goals for the upcoming year. Start by identifying areas where you’d like to see growth and improvement.
These goals can encompass academic achievements, character development, fostering creativity, or cultivating a love for reading.
Remember, goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
For example, a goal that you might have for your child would be, to improve his or her reading skills. You may plan for your child to read a certain amount of books each month, like maybe 5, to improve his reading.
This goal can be seen in the smart acronym. It’s measurable by knowing how many books they read and seeing your child gaining better reading skills. It’s achievable to read 5 books. It’s relevant and within a certain time frame (month) so it’s time-bound.
It’s important to plan your resources and set goals. They can help you stay focused and on track. However, always keep your schedule flexible as well. That is also really important.
Happy planning!
Step 2: Plan Your Curriculum: Embracing Life and Hands-on Experiences – On Learning
When it comes to planning your homeschool curriculum, it’s important to remember that education is not limited to textbooks and worksheets.
While having a structured curriculum can provide a solid foundation, incorporating life experiences and hands-on learning can add a whole new dimension of fun and engagement to your homeschooling journey.
As a homeschool mom, I’ve come to appreciate the immense value of real-world experiences and hands-on activities.
These experiences allow children to connect what they learn in books to the world around them, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for various subjects.
One way to incorporate life experiences into your curriculum is through field trips.
Whether it’s visiting a local museum, exploring nature trails, or attending community events, field trips provide opportunities for hands-on learning and exposure to new ideas.
For example, when studying history, visiting historical sites can bring the past to life and make it more tangible for your children, including some adults.
They can see artifacts, walk through historical buildings, and engage with knowledgeable guides who provide unique insights.
Another way to integrate life experiences is through community involvement. Engage your children in volunteer work or community service projects related to the subjects they’re studying.
For instance, if they’re learning about environmental conservation, organize a neighborhood cleanup or plant trees together.
Another way to integrate life experiences is through community involvement. Engage your children in volunteer work or community service projects related to the subjects they’re studying.
For instance, if they’re learning about environmental conservation, organize a neighborhood cleanup or plant trees together.
These activities not only reinforce academic concepts but also instill a sense of civic responsibility and empathy.
Hands-on learning is another powerful tool to enhance your curriculum. It allows children to actively participate in their education, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning.
Hands-on activities can range from science experiments and art projects to cooking, gardening, and building projects.
Kids love hands-on learning and they are skills that they will remember and use for the rest of their life.
Besides academics, they’re memories that you and your child are making that both of you will have for the rest of your life.
Eating is another thing that both parents and kids enjoy.
When studying the solar system, you can create a model of the planets using craft materials or even edible ingredients.
Such as fruit or cheese.
Children can research each planet’s characteristics, build their models, and present their findings to the family. This hands-on approach not only reinforces their knowledge of the solar system but also nurtures their creativity and presentation skills.
When teaching math, use manipulatives such as blocks, counting bears, or measuring tools to make abstract concepts more concrete.
Let your children engage in real-life situations that require problem-solving, such as measuring ingredients for a recipe or calculating distances on a map during a road trip.
Remember, some of the things that are special about homeschooling lie in its flexibility and adaptability. While a curriculum provides structure and ensures coverage of essential topics, don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path and embrace life experiences and hands-on learning.
It’s through these real-world connections and active engagement that your children’s love for learning will truly flourish.
As you plan your curriculum, leave room for spontaneity, exploration, and creativity. Embrace the joy of learning through hands-on activities and real-world experiences.
Let your children’s curiosity lead the way as you embark on a homeschooling adventure filled with excitement, discovery, and endless possibilities.
I know I have had to remind myself, that workbooks are not the only way to learn.
Just have fun!
Your kids will enjoy it and you both will learn together.
Step 3: Organize Your Homeschool Space: Beyond the Traditional Classroom
When it comes to organizing your homeschool space, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to conform to a traditional classroom setup.
While having a designated area to store supplies and resources can be helpful, the beauty of homeschooling is it gives you opportunities to do what works best for you and your family. Your homeschool space can extend beyond a school room or desk and adapt to the unique needs and preferences of your children.
I’ve witnessed firsthand how the learning environment can evolve and transform based on the changing dynamics of our homeschooling journey.
Initially, we had a dedicated school room, well we still do, with individual desks for each child, neatly arranged with all the necessary supplies. It worked well during that phase of our homeschooling journey.
However, things changed with the learning space when we moved from boxed curriculums and desktop computers.
When my children transitioned to using laptops, the traditional schoolroom setup became less necessary. They started to gravitate towards more flexible spaces in our homes.
My youngest son, in particular, found comfort and relaxation in places like our recliner or sitting on the floor. He would curl up with his laptop and that became his work space.
I have learned that while I enjoy my homeschool room, that learning can take place anywhere. The most important aspect is creating an environment that fosters focus, creativity, and comfort for your children.
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Here are a few ideas to help you organize your homeschool space beyond the traditional classroom:
- Create Mobile Learning Stations: Instead of confining learning to a specific area, consider creating mobile learning stations. These can be rolling carts or portable storage containers that hold essential supplies, books, and materials. This allows your children to move around the house and choose their preferred learning spot, whether it’s the dining table, the living room, or even the backyard.
- Utilize Wall Space: Maximize your wall space by installing shelves, corkboards, or whiteboards. These can be used to display artwork, showcase projects, or serve as visual aids during lessons. Magnetic boards or strips can also be useful for displaying schedules, calendars, and important reminders.
- Embrace Organizational Systems: Implement organizational systems that work for your family’s needs. This could include labeled storage bins for books and supplies, hanging organizers for art materials or manipulatives, or even a pegboard to hang frequently used items. If old enough, encourage your children to take ownership of organizing their own materials, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.
- Incorporate Comfortable Seating: Provide a variety of seating options to accommodate different learning preferences. Some children thrive while sitting at a desk, while others prefer cozy chairs, bean bags, or even floor cushions. Let your children choose their preferred seating arrangement, as long as it allows for focus and productivity.
- Take Learning Outdoors: Don’t limit learning to indoor spaces. Utilize your outdoor space for hands-on activities, nature walks, science experiments, or even reading sessions. Set up a designated outdoor learning area with a picnic table, portable chalkboard, or garden space. The fresh air and change of scenery can invigorate both you and your children.
Remember, the key is to create an environment that supports your children’s learning styles and preferences. It’s not about replicating a traditional classroom but rather embracing the flexibility that homeschooling offers.
As long as your children have the necessary resources and a conducive space that allows them to focus and engage in their studies, the possibilities are endless.
So, as you organize your homeschool space, think outside the box and consider the unique needs and preferences of your children.
Embrace the freedom to create a learning environment that fosters comfort, creativity, and a love for learning.
Let your children explore and discover their favorite spots within your home, and watch as their enthusiasm and engagement soar in their homeschooling journey.
Step 4: Establish Routines and Schedules
Establish Routines and Schedules: Embracing Flexibility and Balance in Homeschooling
When it comes to establishing routines and schedules in homeschooling, it’s important to strike a balance between structure and flexibility.
While traditional school schedules may not be necessary or practical for homeschooling families, having some form of routine can provide a sense of stability and organization to your days.
The wonderful thing about teaching your kids is its adaptability, allowing you to adjust your schedule to accommodate unexpected events or changes in your family’s needs.
Life is full of surprises, and homeschooling allows us to embrace those moments without feeling overwhelmed or stressed about disrupting a rigid schedule.
Just a couple of weeks ago, my 20-year-old son unexpectedly had to undergo an appendectomy. It happened on a Friday, a day that we typically reserve for our homeschooling activities.
We are on summer break, had this been during school time, we would have needed to alter our schooling schedule. However, since we have the flexibility to determine our own schedule, our focus was now, and, would have been then, to take care of my son and adjust our school calendar and schedule accordingly.
The ability to plan out and replan our schedules is a blessing to us as homeschooling parents. It allows us to prioritize our children’s well-being and accommodate the unexpected events that life throws our way.
Whether it’s a family emergency, a special outing, or even a spontaneous opportunity for hands-on learning, homeschooling enables us to seize those moments and make them part of our educational journey
While it’s important to have some kind of solid schedule.
That being said, having a loose routine or flexible schedule can still be beneficial in maintaining a sense of structure and productivity.
It helps create a rhythm to your homeschooling days and ensures that you cover the necessary subjects and topics. The key is to find a routine that works for your family, taking into account your children’s learning styles, interests, and energy levels.
Here are a few tips to establish a flexible routine in your homeschooling:
- Identify Your Priorities: Determine the key subjects or activities that you want to prioritize in your homeschooling. These may include core subjects like math and language arts, as well as any additional subjects or extracurricular activities that are important to your family.
- Create a General Schedule: Outline a loose schedule that gives a rough framework for your days. This could involve setting blocks of time for different subjects or activities, taking breaks, and allowing for free exploration or playtime.
- Be Open to Adjustments: Embrace the flexibility to make adjustments as needed. If unexpected events or opportunities arise, don’t hesitate to modify your schedule to accommodate them. Remember, life experiences are valuable learning opportunities too.
- Involve Your Children: Allow your children to have some say in the schedule and routine. Discuss their preferences and consider their input. When children feel empowered and involved in the decision-making process, they are more likely to be engaged and take ownership of their learning.
- Embrace Unstructured Time: Leave room for an unstructured time where your children can pursue their own interests and passions. This freedom allows for creativity, independent exploration, and a love for lifelong learning.
Remember, the purpose of establishing routines and schedules in homeschooling is to provide a sense of structure and organization while allowing for adaptability and spontaneity.
Don’t stress about adhering to a strict timetable like traditional schools. Instead, focus on finding a balance that works for your family and brings joy to your homeschooling journey.
Step 5: Gather Resources and Materials
Compile a comprehensive list of resources and materials you’ll need for the new school year. This includes textbooks, workbooks, art supplies, manipulatives, educational games, and digital resources.
Take advantage of online resources, libraries, and second-hand curriculum sales to find budget-friendly options.
Additionally, explore local homeschooling groups, co-ops, and community resources for field trips, extracurricular activities, and support.
Building a network of like-minded homeschooling families can provide invaluable support and enrichment opportunities for your children.
https://hslda.org/post/7-simple-steps-to-start-homeschooling
Homeschooling moms, preparing for a new school year is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities.
As you embark on a new homeschooling year, remember that you hold the incredible opportunity to shape your children’s education and create a learning environment that truly suits their needs.
By following these five essential steps—Reflect and Set Goals, Plan Your Curriculum, Organize Your Homeschool Space, Establish Routines and Schedules, and Embrace Flexibility—you are laying the foundation for a successful and fulfilling homeschooling journey.
Reflecting and setting goals allows you to gain clarity and direction, ensuring that your homeschooling journey aligns with what you are hoping to accomplish with your kid’s school year.
Planning your curriculum with a balance of structured materials and hands-on experiences provides a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
Organizing your homeschool space, whether it’s a dedicated room or a flexible environment, allows for comfort and creativity to flourish.
Establishing routines and schedules brings a sense of structure while embracing the adaptability and spontaneity that homeschooling offers.
Above all, remember that homeschooling is not just about academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child.
Embrace life experiences, giving of time at your church, community involvement, and hands-on learning to provide a well-rounded education that extends beyond textbooks and worksheets.
By incorporating these elements, you will foster a love for learning, critical thinking skills, and character development in your children.
Most importantly, I encourage you to trust yourself, have confidence in your abilities as a homeschooling mom, lean on the support of your homeschooling community, and pray for God to direct your homeschool journey.
Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Reach out to fellow homeschooling moms, seek guidance from experienced homeschoolers, and draw strength from God as you put your trust in him to lead your homeschool.
As parents, you have everything you need to give your children an extraordinary education.
Here’s to a fantastic new school year! May it be filled with wonder, growth, and the joy of homeschooling.