Planning Your Homeschool Year

Is this the year you are going to get organized with homeschooling? Planning ahead can ensure a successful educational experience for your child (and a less stressful year for yourself!). Here are some tips for planning an effective homeschool year.

Set Clear Goals

What are your goals for your child/ren this year? Consider your child’s academic needs, current interests, and long-term goals. Establish clear goals for each subject and area of development. Be sure to make the goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound). Your children can work on setting their own goals for themselves using this product or similar.

Research Legal Requirements

Be sure that you are up-to-date regarding current homeschooling laws and regulations in your state. Get any necessary documentation taken care of before the school year starts, and keep a paper or digital copy somewhere easy to access later on. You can check out homeschool laws in your state through the HSLDA.

Get Out That Calendar

Before the year begins, get out the calendar. If you work with a charter or umbrella school, mark off the school breaks, holidays, appointment dates, assessments, etc.. Take note of any personal events such as doctor’s appointments, sports tournaments, and family functions. Think back to last year and be realistic – before the holidays were you a well-focused and functional homeschooler? Or were you a disheveled mess running errands at the last minute while your kids were left to their own “devices”? Plan a realistic schedule that allows for real life to happen.

Develop a Schedule

Create a schedule that allows for both regular routines as well as flexibility. When developing the schedule, be sure to keep in mind your child’s attention span, learning style, and energy level. Are there days that you want to designate for co-op groups or field trips? Are there weeks or months where you will be on vacation or not as available for regular homeschooling? How will you incorporate snacks, lunch, PE, free play, and sensory breaks? For tips on homeschooling multiple kids at once, check out this post.

Select Curriculum and Resources

Prior to the school year, research and choose materials that align with the goals you have set and your teaching philosophy. Keep in mind that different materials work for some kids (and families) and not others. Some families enjoy online and technology resources while others prefer more traditional paper/pencil activities or hands-on learning experiences. Just because a co-op friend is using a particular technique or resource, do not feel that you need to choose the same for your family. Know your child and your goals, and keep these both in mind when selecting materials. One great resource to use is Cathy Duffy’s curriculum review resources. 

Personalize Learning

One of the great things about homeschooling is that you can truly customize learning to meet your child’s individual needs and pace. This year, don’t be afraid to try some different teaching approaches such as project-based learning, hands-on activities, or online learning. Modify the content, provide challenges, and adapt the schedule to work for your child. Don’t feel limited by what you have done in the past. Use interest and learning inventories at the beginning of the year as a way to keep your child’s preferences and strengths top-of-mind when planning out your homeschool year.

Establish Learning Spaces

Create dedicated learning spaces free from distractions. But sure to have an area (or a few) for your lessons, as well as places to store materials. Create systems so that your child/ren know where to find their resources, how to clean them up, and the process for turning in work for review. Allow your child to help decorate their learning spaces as a way to get them motivated. The beginning of the year is also a great time to try out flexible seating options such as yoga balls, standing desks, etc.

Seek Support and Networking

Homeschooling does not need to be limited to your home. Connect with other homeschool families through support groups, co-ops, charter programs, homeschool classes, workshops, and conferences. Reach out to other homeschoolers through social media groups. Homeschooling does not need to be an isolating experience. Take the first step to connect with others; you can gain a lot from seasoned homeschoolers.

Incorporate Socialization

Just as connecting with other homeschool parents is important for you, it is equally as important for your child/ren to socialize with peers. Co-ops, sports teams, clubs, and community groups are great ways for kids to develop social skills and friendships. Find out what your child would like to try this year and then help make it happen.

Remember that every homeschooling journey is unique. What works for one family may not work for yours. Trust your own instincts and be open to adjusting your plans along the way. You can do this!