Southern Belle Jubilee

One of the most frequently asked questions about homeschooling is: how do you plan for it? I’m excited to share tips for effectively organizing your week. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, a well-structured week can greatly enhance your homeschooling experience.

1. Set Your Goals

Before diving into your weekly plan, take a moment to define your objectives. What do you hope to achieve this week? Consider both academic and personal goals for your children. Clear goals help you stay focused and ensure you’re working toward specific outcomes.

2. Choose Your Curriculum

If you’re using a specific curriculum, review the materials for the week and identify key lessons and topics to cover. If you’re creating your own plan, jot down the subjects you want to focus on, including any special projects or themes.

We’re currently using the Gentle Classical Press Preschool curriculum. My daughter enjoys it immensely, and it offers a wealth of materials, an activity guide, and a schedule, which helps me organize our units. I can do a deeper dive into the curriculum once we complete this school year.

3. Create a Weekly Schedule

Having a visual layout of your week can help keep everyone organized. Here’s a simple approach to creating your schedule:

• Block A: Start with core subjects like math, reading, and writing. These are best tackled when everyone is fresh.

• Block B: Incorporate science and social studies. Consider hands-on activities or field trips to make learning more engaging.

• Block C: Dedicate time to arts, physical education, and any extracurricular activities. This is a great time for creativity and movement.

Feel free to mix and match blocks to fit your week. You can cover all blocks in one day or spread them out over several days, depending on your schedule. This flexibility is one of the best aspects of homeschooling.

I created a weekly planner that I use with, a dry erase pocket sheet protector, and wet erase markers to help plan my week. This method saves money on printing and allows for easy adjustments. I also maintain a materials list to ensure I have necessary craft supplies and review our family library to confirm we have the relevant books. If not, I plan to pick them up during our weekly trip to the local public library.

Download your free homeschool weekly planner here:

4. Be Flexible

While having a plan is essential, flexibility is key in homeschooling. Life happens, and sometimes lessons may take longer than expected or a spark of interest might lead you off course. Build in buffer time and be willing to adjust your schedule as needed.

5. Incorporate Family Time

Don’t forget to include family time in your weekly plan! This could be as simple as a shared meal, a family game night, or an outing. Making time for family strengthens bonds and creates a supportive learning environment.

6. Assess and Reflect

At the end of the week, take time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Consider keeping a journal to note achievements and challenges. This reflection will help you adjust your plans for the following week.

7. Prepare for the Next Week

As you wrap up the current week, start thinking about the next one. Gather materials, prepare any resources needed, and set aside time for planning. This proactive approach will ease your transition into the new week.

Download your free homeschool weekly planner here:

Planning your week for homeschooling doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With clear goals, a structured schedule, and a bit of flexibility, you can create an enriching and enjoyable learning experience for your children. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so cherish each moment along the way!

Happy homeschooling, y’all! Share your favorite tips for planning your week in the comments below.

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