So you have bought your curriculum and now it's sitting there, staring at you. As you are looking over the awesome curriculum you plan to use this fall, I encourage you to consider this Sanity Saving Checklist for Planning Your Homeschool Year before the first day of school.
Are there enough hours in the day?
It's possible you have purchased 18 hours worth of curriculum, but I don't suggest you homeschool for 18 hours a day.
Will it cause burnout?
If curriculum is above their ability level, or using too much curriculum for their needs, then it can cause serious burnout. Don't give too much if it's their weak area, or they will become frustrated and spiral into negative self-talk.
Are kids responsible?
Whenever possible, encourage your children to learn independently. Just remember that independence doesn't happen overnight, it's a process that takes years with lots of training, modeling, and encouragement.
Are you expecting too much?
If you are planning to homeschool longer than the average adult's work day, that's too much! Scale back, and limit yourself to a reasonable amount for each subject, starting with core classes first.
Did you over-estimate mornings?
Oh sure, we'd all like to say we get up at 6:00 am to start our day, but if your homeschool plans are dependent on making a night owl into a morning person, it just won't work. Don't over estimate what time you become functional each morning.
Can they concentrate that long?
The reason schools have 50 minute classes is because studies show that is how long a teenager can concentrate. Mix things up a bit, so the kids aren't asked to do one thing for more than an hour at a time.
Could you do it as an adult?
No, really, think about this! If I told you to sit still, without moving, and pay attention to a computer screen or textbook for 8 hours straight, could you do it? I don't think so! If you couldn't or shouldn't complete your plan as an adult, don't ask your children to do it either. That's just begging for trouble.
You can read more about how to avoid a crazy, busy life in my article, How to Avoid a Crazy Busy Life in 7 Easy Steps.
What would you add to this checklist for planning your homeschool year? I'd love to know! Please share in the comments below.
