Summer is almost here! If your family is like mine, then you’re about ready to enjoy a nice long summer break. It’s also time for summer planning.
Tips for Summer Planning
1. Read Inspiration Homeschooling Books
By the end of the school year, I’m worn down and tired of homeschooling. So this is the time I read inspirational homeschooling books. I’ll review my favorite books and renew my vision for my family’s homeschool.
It’s time to remember why we’re homeschooling.
2. Pick Curriculum for the Year
Summer is also when I finalize my curriculum choices and make my purchases.While you’re ordering for your older children, don’t forget to plan a preschool program for your youngest children. They’ll enjoy the lessons and time with mommy.
Let me tell you, there’s nothing as motivating as making the order for next year’s curriculum and eagerly awaiting it’s arrival. Once it’s here, I’m eager to start the new school year.
3. Thumb through Curriculum
I don’t however. Instead I thumb through the curriculum and make notes. What projects would I like my family to complete? Are there supplies I should be keeping on hand such as tempura paints, cardboard, and glitter?
What about science supplies? Make a list of all the extra supplies you’ll need to go along with your curriculum and pull together some easy lesson plans. Prepare now for a smooth school year.
4. Divide into Quarters or Thirds
As I’m thumbing through the curriculum, I divide it into quarters. You can also divide it into thirds if you prefer the trimesters to quarters and semesters. Most of my curriculum divides neatly into quarters, so that’s what I choose.
Once I’ve made my division, I set goal markers for the end of each quarter. Remember to add an extra week or two into your plans for surprises, crisis, and illness.
5. Pick Up Supplies
Make an appointment with yourself to go shopping for supplies. I like to go during the summer back to school sales. They’re a great time to stock up for the school year and save a bit of money.
Remember to pick up plenty of pencils, scissors, paper clips, paper, art supplies, science supplies, craft supplies, and any other item your family enjoys using over the year. You may still need to stock up again in the spring, but you’ll be set for the winter.
6. Back to School Transition
In your summer planning, include a back to school transition. It’s hard for kids and parents to go from a relaxing carefree summer day to a packed, busy homeschool day. Don’t do it to yourself or your kids. Plan a gentle back to school transition to ease into your new homeschool routine.
Most importantly, relax and enjoy your summer. Go exploring with your children. Study flowers or plant a garden. Most importantly, recharge your batteries and get excited to homeschool your children again in the fall!
What’s your best tip for summer planning?
I like your advice to plan a preschool program for your younger children while finalizing educational plans for your older children. Honestly, I think it’s a good idea to have an at-home preschool curriculum set up even if your kids go somewhere else during the day. Reinforcing what they learned at preschool at home can be a great way to get your child the best preparation for school that they can get. Thanks for the article!
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