5 Steps To Planning a Homeschooling Journey

Most homeschoolers will describe their education as a journey.  It can be filled with adventure and excitement, or suspense and intrigue.  As an independent homeschooler there may be mountains to climb or rivers to cross, but you definitely don't want the journey to be mundane and boring.  Having a list of subjects and activities is just the beginning.  For some homeschoolers planning and scheduling the journey can be the biggest hurdle.

So, how do you get over this hurdle?  Let's take it one step at a time.

Step 1:   Your Map!

Whether you use a boxed curriculum or an eclectic collection of curriculum, if you don't have a final destination planned then you will just wander on a path to nowhere.

What is your scope and sequence for the year?  World Book offers a "Typical Course of Study" based on curriculum requirements and standards.  You can also look up your state standards, but don't feel that you need to be bound by these standards.  Work them in according to your child's learning style and/or your schooling method.  You can use it as a checklist for what your child has learned and/or use it to put together unit studies.

Whether your course of study has been laid out for you or you need to create one all you own, this is a great place to start.  Mapping out where you want your journey to end is as important as the path you choose.

Step 2:   Your Compass!

A compass is the most important tool you need on your homeschool journey.  You may find yourself in the middle of a forest wondering which way to turn.  Your homeschool compass is your planner.  It will keep you on your education path, and should always point to your final destination.  Also, remember you may run into some unforeseen obstacles along the way.  Preparing in advance for how you may handle these is just as important as knowing your direction.  Be flexible and stay alert.

So, do you prefer an online planner, or does a paper planner suit your needs?  I recommend Donna Young's website.  She has created a plethora of planners to choose from; planners for you to fill in online and then print, or you can print them blank and fill them in with pencil.  Or, here are two free online planners;  Homeschool Skedtracker, Home School Inc., or Homeschool Tracker.  They are easy to use, and both have tutorials to assist in setting them up.  These online planners are great for storing all your homeschool records required by most states, and they are easy to print if and when you need to.

Start your journey with a quality compass and you won't get lost along the way.

Step 3:   Your Supplies! 

Any journey requires supplies such as food, water, first aid kit, etc.  You need to know the provisions you will need, and how much you can carry.  In homeschooling it is knowing how much time it takes to complete lessons, and how much extracurricular activities you can fit in to successfully accomplish your goals.  If you try to carry too much you won't have the stamina to make it through the journey.

Don't over schedule your lessons!  You want to leave room for exploring interest and fostering your child's imagination.

Step 4:  Your Path! 

Design your lessons to your students needs and abilities.  They don't have to be scheduled or presented according to the brick and mortar style.  Homeschooling is a whole new paradigm.  Prioritize what's important, but don't let it put you or your student in a box.  Be creative and step outside your comfort zone.  How do you expect your students to grow and stretch if you are not willing to?  On your homeschooling journey you are allowed and should expect to break from the "norm".

Step 5:  Your Journey! 

Don't let outside influences distract you from your course.  The negative nay-sayers will try to lead you astray.  You are offering your student the most valuable education that no one else can provide.  Stick to your goals and beliefs and you won't fail.

Most importantly ~ this is not a race!  Enjoy the journey, and smell the roses along the way.  Take time to refuel, rehydrate, and relax.  This will keep the excitement and interest in your homeschooling journey.  Allow for time of laughter, fun, and introspection.  This will build confidence and self-esteem for you and your student.