I am not big on New Year’s resolutions, but like everyone else, sometimes I just can’t help myself. January 1st does feel like a new opportunity, a clean slate. This time of year I do find myself evaluating our school year and making changes where needed.
Now that I am writing for The Old Schoolhouse’s Review Crew we had to change our curriculum. We are still using My Father’s World for Geography and History, but everything else will be changing. The changes are good and may serve each child better! One thing does remain the same…the need for a bit more structure!
Since I had my 4th child I have struggles with our routines and schedules. I am still learning to balance the needs of the little ones (3 and 1 year old) with the needs of the boys being homeschooled. Since having my last child I have FINALLY pulled together a schedule for the family. IT IS DEFINITELY A LIVING DOCUMENT! It will change constantly as we make it work more and more to fit our life.
Today was the first day I used it and so far, it has been a success!! I made one for each child, gave them each a laminated copy and posted them on the fridge (need to find a better place for them). I am hoping this schedule helps my kids, especially my older two (9 and 8 years old), be more independent. I want them to become familiar with their schedule, especially during school hours so that I just have to supervise. This will give me the flexibility to be with each child individually.
When I presented their individual schedules to them last night they were excited. One of the best things I like is when I overhear my children saying (positive) things. 
My oldest son told his brothers “I am so excited about my schedule!”. My 6 year old hugged me and said “Thank you for making time for my bath”. Now, taking a bath is really not that serious!! 
, but I guess seeing it as a dedicated activity on his own schedule, made it special! 
This excitement was great but it also put on the pressure! I HAD to stick to it! We have so far, and it has really made things so much easier!! Now I just need to do what I usually find the hardest to do…stick to it!
I have heard from more experience homeschoolers, that schedules are good, but should not become our masters!
I will stick to the idea of a more structured schedule, but will remain flexible, and let life happen, as it always does around here
Click below to see one of the boys’ schedules for ideas!
Great plan, I want to revamp our schedule as well.
Let me know if you eould like me to send you the excel file and you can edit it as best suits your family
Brilliant! We totally are revamping our schooling this year – and although I’d originally planned not to start until March (my hubby is off work from Christmas til March1) – the kids have been CRAZY and I NEED to get us on some sort of routine. Your schedule sounds like a great idea. Let us know how it works out!
The boys were so excited! So far it has worked out great, but I have had to remain flexible. It has helped us stay focused on what we need to get done. My greatest struggle is consistensy, so I need to keep that in mind
I pray you find a routine that works for you until March!