Back to School Basics

Whether you are beginning school or just getting back into a new year or term, here are some basics that have helped us:

Prepare

I do this at the end of the term, and a few days before school starts. The more prepared I am, the better my days flow.  There is nothing more stressful than starting off “on the back foot”!

• prepare my files and notes
• fill in my planning pages
• organize all the books and downloads
• photocopy notebook pages and lapbooks
• rearrange the whiteboard and displays with new themes
• clear out and re-stock stationary and art and  craft supplies
• sort and purge/ pack away the books and educational games we no longer use

I like to prepare my children and …

• mark off the start date on the calendar
• count down sleeps (for young children)
• have a “final fantastic fun holiday” day/ picnic/outing
• re-arrange their school desk and supplies
• write a welcome note and/or place a gift at each place
• have a “practice run” wake up, chores and breakfast the day before school

Start Simple

I like to start school on time and keep the basic schedule,  but I prefer to start a new year with a “sampler day“:

• keep lessons to 10 minutes and no longer than 20 minutes each.
• do just a little really well
• do only the basics – Bible reading, song and prayer, followed by maths, dictation or copywork, language arts, spelling and reading
• have a nice tea time treat and a quick physical exercise or count & clap game
• do a core read aloud with a short narration (usually oral if children are young)
• I tell them that the next day/ week we may do 1 more subject or activity each day, but stop when it is lunchtime.  
• It really doesn’t matter if you have not “done everything”.  Within a short while, everyone will master the basics and have enough time to tackle longer assignments or activities and cover all the subjects for the week.

Most children are tired and a little discouraged after they complete their first day.  They have forgotten maths skills or “lost” their neat handwriting muscles during the break!  This is when a read aloud really helps.  We go to a comfy spot and snuggle up to listen to a story.

Have realistic expectations, but keep your hope and compassion high!  Homeschoolers are so blessed – moms can give lots of cuddles, hugs and loving touches during difficult times.

When I try to establish new routine,  I avoid all unnecessary outings, extra-murals and visits for a week.  We stay home, keep things simple and focused and calm.  I cook simple, nutritious meals and snacks, and we try to have early bedtime.  When children go to bed happy, confident and calm, I find that they generally are more enthusiastic about new challenges. Starting school after a long break (or for the first time) is very stressful. 

May you have happy new beginnings!

Blessings,