Once you have your homeschool content ready, it is time to get organized and establish your schedule, record-keeping methods, and review process. Be sure to double-check any state requirements so nothing gets missed. Setting up a file system, binder, or digital system are all great options to keep things organized and in one place. At least semiannually, circle back to those goals you set at the beginning of your journey, making any adjustments necessary. It is not uncommon for me to make lots of changes once we get into the groove, this is OK!
It will take time to find your rhythm, and systems. After 11 years, I am still making annual changes. My children are not the only ones learning each year!
My favorite method of record-keeping is a binder for me, and a hanging file for each kid. At the end of the year (or midway), I can go through the files to assess and update our progress. At the end of the year, I gather any missing paperwork for their files, label the folder with the child’s name and year, and put it in a larger file box for storage.
What to include in your Homeschool Notebook
- Calendar of the school year (to check off # of homeschool days)
- Goals set for each child at the beginning of the year
- Intent to homeschool form filed with the state
- Testing documentation (if applicable)
- List of curriculum you are using for each child
- Books read throughout the year (I only record read-alouds currently since including all would be a massive list!)
- Checklist of lessons for each curriculum to checkoff as completed
- Record of field trips or other activities and classes (planned for the year/list of ideas/trips completed)
- Written year-end assessment for each child
- Book lists for ideas of what to check out next
- To Purchase list
- Wish List- this can include cool ideas for down the road, any larger purchases to save up for, or things to keep an eye out for at the next consignment sale.
Tips & Tricks
Try car schooling. Lapdesks, clipboards, audiobooks, memory work CDs, and work boxes all work great for an education on the go.
Track books read or lessons completed
- Create a sticker chart for each book with lesson numbers or days completed (some curriculum come with these for younger students!), to track progress with your child.
- Track your reading list in Goodreads or create a poster for writing down titles of books read throughout the year.
- Make a copy of the Table of Contents in each curriculum to easily check off each lesson completed.
Set the Schedule or Routine
- Create a dry erase daily checklist for each child using a plastic sleeve or laminating the chart (use pictures for younger students).
- Create or print a calendar for your older students to start teaching independence and accountability. Gradually you want them to take on more of this planning so involve them in the process. (at 11 my daughter created and personalized her calendar which gave her a sense of ownership over things and made a huge difference in how she treated the schedule)
- Free printables are easy to find with a google search. These are often pretty generic but cute.
- Go digital! Google calendar links to Tasks, To-Dos, and Notes for organization on the go, plus reminders will really make you look like you have it together!
Make the plan visual to all members involved. If only mom knows the plan she has to be the enforcer. Start giving the kids ownership of their day in an age-appropriate way.
Weave Learning into Your Day (easier with younger kids)
- Sing ABCs when you wash hands
- Snack time provides lots of opportunities to practice counting, adding, subtracting, even dividing, etc.
- Play I spy with colors, shapes, in the tub, in the car, on a walk, etc.
Plan to be spontaneous! Don’t forget to leave margins in your day and year for spontaneous trips to the park, playdates, or field trips.
Review and Reassess
- Put a review date on the calendar or set aside a “workday” at the end of the year to hold yourself accountable for evaluation and review.
- Have your kids do a review of their year as well. For younger kids ask questions and write their answers for them. Look for a premade printable for older students or make up your own questions. Get their input about what worked, what didn’t, favorite/least favorite parts or subjects, what they think they need to improve or work on for the next year, etc. These are just as valuable as keepsakes as they are for feedback.
Popular Homeschool Calendars and Systems
Erin Condren Teacher Planner – set up for teachers, this may be too much in the beginning seasons, but there are homeschoolers out there that are loving this new addition to the line.
Happy Planner – for the sticker lover, scrap-booking, washi tape enthusiast
The Well-planned Day – designed for homeschooling moms, options for students as well!
A Simple Plan– great for up to 6 students! A very comprehensive but well laid out planner. It is simple, but not small!
Home Education Planner – Charlotte Mason based
Homeschool Planner Overload – if you get overwhelmed easily, do not click, but if you like a wealth of details and info on all things planners, then this post is for you.
Ask other homeschool moms how they plan and keep up with their schedule. Homeschoolers (many of them) love to discuss such things for abnormally long amounts of time.
If you don’t already have a homeschool support group, don’t forget to check out step 10!
Step 10: Homeschool Support System
