Planning your homeschool year is a significant task that requires careful thought and consideration. While it may feel intimdating at times, it can truly be an exciting and enjoyable process! Whether you're a new homeschooling mom or have many years of experience, here are some simple steps to get you started.
Note: before you begin to plan, ensure you are familiar with your state's laws and regulations. HSLDA.org is an excellent resource for understanding legal requirements.
1. Overview of the school year
Decide on your yearly calendar.
- How many terms or semesters will you have?
- How many weeks you have?
- Are there any state laws or regulations regarding school hours/days?
- When will you have breaks?
- What holidays will you take off?
- Do you need to plan for any family travel, vacation, or other needs?
Consider creating extra time in your schedule for any unexpected needs such as sickness, unexpected trips, or last-minute field trips.
2. Choose or create your curriculum
Having an educational philosophy has helped guide my curriculum choices. If you haven’t considered your approach to homeschool, this is a great time to step back and pray through your homeschool.
- Why are you homeschooling?
- What is your vision for your family?
- Are there any particular methods that resonate with you? (Charlotte Mason, classical, Waldorf, traditional, etc).
You can choose a pre-made curriculum, create your own, or utilize different resources for different subjects.
3. Decide your daily and weekly schedule
What will each day look like?
- Think through which subjects and how frequently you’ll include them. (A curriculum may help guide these choices)
- Consider any co-ops or homeschool groups
- Consider any extracurriculars, appointments, or family needs
How will you plan your days?
- A scheduled timetable
- A general rhythm
- A loop schedule
Give yourself grace as you find what works best for you and your family.
4. Forecast lessons
Using your curriculum choices and schedule, forecast lessons as needed. Not all subjects need planning or forecasting.
Remember this is a guide- planning is a tool as we provide a life-giving education to our children!
5. Get ready
- Purchase books & materials
- Print what’s needed (at home or professionally)
- Organize materials
- Get your homeschool space ready
Tip: I love to do most of my planning over the summer, so I'm confident and ready for the new school year. While I will make adjustments along the way, planning in the summer allows me time for research, decision-making, and planning before the year begins.
