Homeschool Supplies & Organization

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HOMESCHOOL PLANNERS

Homeschooling can generate chaos unlike anything else if you do not have some planning and record keeping system. There are a variety of homeschool planners and organizers available online, both free and for purchase. The organizers are in several formats, the most common free planner type being PDF files. There are also organizer pages that are in a word processor or spreadsheet format. Unlike PDF files, these can be changed and customized to fit your homeschool then printed. Online record keepers that you access through the Internet are also available. The one that is best will depend on your family, your organization style, and the ages and learning styles of your children.

A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING

Organize your school space; that does not mean you have to have a dedicated classroom. For our family, we use the formal dining room; I use our buffet cabinet to store all our books and supplies. Get clear storage bins for markers, crayons, and other small items. It also helps to label them so your children will know what goes where.  In this instance,  be like a public school in having designated areas for all your supplies. It will save you time when you start your school day and don't have to look all around your home for items needed for your lesson. 

CREATE A SCHEDULE 

Remember - your family is unique - and you need a plan that suits you. A schedule is only great if it works for you - not against you.

First, know your homeschool goals and have decided your subjects and the methods you will use. Then you need to begin organizing your day and weeks. Consider your family. Are you going to be able to structure their time? Schedules just do not work with some homeschooling families!Be flexible. Things change, and homeschooling isn't an exact science. If things aren't working according to the schedule - modify it and make it work for your family.

Keep it fresh. Doing the same thing day in day out will get boring for everyone. Try adding something new into the mix.

These are just a few things to consider when tackling your homeschool adventure.