During this unique time families have had to reevaluate their definition of school. Through all the hardships, struggles, and let’s just say it CHAOS many families have discovered that they are more than capable of teaching their children. And that really warms my heart because it’s true, you can do this. So if you’ve been thinking about it, and have decided to make the change I want to provide you with some homeschooling must I’ve picked up along my own journey.
https://www.ladydspeaks.com/unexpected-benefits/
So many choices
Where do you start? As a new homeschooling mom I asked myself that same question. And the most logical answer was, choosing the curriculum. I spent hours (OK maybe more like days) searching and reading reviews. I felt like Alice, in Wonderland that is. Falling further down, down, down the rabbit hole. Yes, choosing curriculum is important but let me just save you some time. You need to decide first which homeschooling method you want to use; i.e. Classical Homeschooling, Unit Studies, Unschooling, Charlotte Mason, and so on.
Once you’ve decide what your homeschooling goals are this will help you in your curriculum search. Though there will still be many options you’ll have a better chance of discovering what will work best for your family. So start small. Purchase some basic workbook, living books, or whatever it is that your interested in and try it out. Only once you see it in action will you know whether to move forward or try again. And don’t be afraid to consider purchasing used curriculum. You’ll be surprised how “like new” many are.
Budget, save, repeat
Speaking of savings let’s talk budgeting. If you’re like me it’s one of your least favorite things to do, but a very necessary part. If it’s your first year and your not sure how to calculate it I always error on the side of caution. Take the total cost of the curriculum you’ve chosen then add the cost of field trips, sports, music, and supplies you desire. Then times that by the number of children you’ll be homeschooling. If that number is too high and not at all realistic don’t be discouraged. Cost saving alternatives are out there. Using groupon for field trips, purchasing supplies at discounted retails, and even considering purchasing a single curriculum that can be used for multiple age groups can go along ways.
https://www.moneycrashers.com/homeschool-child-budget/
A wonderful discovery I stumbled upon which saved us on field trips was homeschool days. Many museums, zoos, and aquariums participate in this. On these days the entrance prices are greatly reduced or even free. Once I knew this I made it a beginning of the year tradition to look them up and mark them on our calendar. Then I knew that we at the very least had some field trips scheduled.
Plans are only as good as your planner
A well planned planner is a life line keeping everyone afloat throughout the homeschool year. Though no two homeschooling homes are the same these are some must haves I make sure I include in my planners each school year.
- A Year at a Glance Calendar
- Lesson Plans (week by week)
- Monthly Calendars
- Attendance Record Form
- Grade Form
- Book List
And all of these (minus the year at a glance) may need to be duplicated per child. Make sure to also look up your current state laws and include any additional forms as needed.
https://classicallyhomeschooling.com/paper-homeschool-planners/
Let’s get organized
Organization equals peace in my world. I have learned this as a parent that the more organized, within reason, that I am the calmer I am. And this trickles down to my girls. If your new to homeschooling don’t attempt to organize your whole home at once. Instead take it a room at a time. Start where you think you’ll primarily be spending most of your time. If needed purchasing items like cubbies, desks, baskets, or even a label maker can do the trick. Whatever you chose it should make your lives easier. So no you don’t need a pinterest perfect room, just one that is comfortable and welcoming.
