6 Tips for Starting Your Homeschool Year on the Right Foot

Hello, fellow homeschooling mama! As we gear up for another exciting homeschool year, I wanted to share some tips that have helped our family start off on the right foot. With our wild and free, relaxed unschooling philosophy, every year brings new adventures and opportunities for growth as we focus more on connection than curriculum.

So, let’s dive into six tips to ensure a joyful and successful homeschool journey ahead!

1. Embrace the Rhythms, Not Routines:

In our homeschool, we dance to the rhythm of life rather than stick to rigid routines. Begin by observing your family’s natural flow – when are the kids most engaged? When do they naturally gravitate towards learning? Some kids wake up early, ready to go, while others don’t seem to get their brain in gear until the afternoon. Take that into consideration when you design a loose daily rhythm that can accommodate these tendencies. This will allow for spontaneous exploration while providing a gentle structure that ensures you actually accomplish something each day.

2. Create an Inspiring Learning Environment:

Setting up a welcoming learning environment can spark curiosity and creativity. Designate a cozy corner with a variety of books, art supplies, and educational games. Let the children contribute to the space’s decoration, making it truly their own. A space filled with love and inspiration will naturally draw them in. You don’t need a whole room dedicated to homeschooling! Most people end up gathering around the dining room table and that’s totally ok! Check out my blog post next week about setting up a homeschool cart to foster a flexible homeschooling environment if you are short on space.

3. Follow the Children’s Lead:

Our homeschooling thrives on the principle of child-led and interest-led learning. Observe your children’s interests, passions, and questions. Use these as a guiding compass for your homeschool journey. Whether it’s dinosaurs, space exploration, or gardening, dive deep into these subjects together, fostering a genuine love for learning.

4. Embrace Flexibility:

One of the beauties of homeschooling (or unschooling) is its flexibility. Be prepared to adapt and change course as needed. If a nature walk leads to an unexpected lesson on ecosystems, embrace it! Flexibility allows for organic learning experiences and the freedom to explore new avenues of interest.

5. Cultivate a Love for Lifelong Learning:

Our ultimate goal is to nurture a love for learning that extends beyond childhood. Share your own passions and interests with your kids, showing them that learning is a lifelong journey. Whether it’s trying a new recipe, learning a musical instrument, or delving into a historical period, let them witness your enthusiasm for acquiring new knowledge.

6. Prioritize Connection and Play:

Above all, prioritize connection within your family. Play is a powerful tool for learning and bonding. Plan on regular family game nights, outdoor adventures, and unstructured playtime together. These moments provide opportunities for learning through play, fostering strong relationships among siblings and parents alike.

As we embark on this new homeschool year, let’s remember that the heart of our homeschooling journey lies in nurturing our children’s curiosity, fostering their individuality, and embracing the joy of learning together. By embracing the a faith-focused philosophy with a wild and free spirit, we are not only guiding our children’s education but also shaping their character and love for learning.

Here’s to a fantastic homeschool year filled with wonder, exploration, and connection!

With love (and pumpkin spice lattes!),