Too many times have I heard the phrase, "We don't have money for curriculum." Honestly, there have been many times that that I have said the exact same thing. It wasn't because I didn't budget. Money was just tight! However, we need to do what it takes to create and maintain a workable homeschool budget. Jesus said in Luke 14:28; "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?" These homeschool budget tips should work for everyone: 1) Make your pie in the sky list Organizational Supplies- Think bookshelves, desks and such. Even if you are thrifty and shop yard sales, there is still a cost. School Supplies- paper, pencils, notebooks (I really stock up during back to school sales.) Curriculum- This one is clearly a given. Choose this wisely. Sometimes an initially high price tag pays off as you pass it through your children. Computers Science stuff- microscopes, experiment … [Read more...]
Finish Well: Homeschooling Encouragement
The following are just few tips to help you finish well. Intentionally living, realizing our goals, and remembering why we homeschool will help you in this school year's grand finale! How can we finish well? 1.) Take advantage of the sunshine! Create a Spring schedule that allows for plenty of outside time. Maybe you can add botany, or study birds in your science lessons. Whatever you choose, purpose to go outdoors. You could take schoolwork outside, go for walks or bike rides, have picnic lunches or BBQ dinners! 2.) Ask yourself, "What does finish mean?" Evaluate yourself and your children honestly. What was your goal(s) for the year? You don't need to finish every page of every workbook. (SHHHHH! Don't tell my children that!) 3.) Choose a last day and celebrate! Give your children something to look forward to and make it fun! My own children are just strange... They can't wait to finish this year just so they can start the next one! I am the one saying, "Wait! I am … [Read more...]
Homeschool Planning Tips
This is the time of year that many of us like to plan for the upcoming homeschool year. For many years, I would go to the state convention, pour over catalogs, read books, and get chatty with my homeschool mama pals. Having now graduated two of my students with a third in tow, I think I have my to do list down pretty well by now. It seems I will be continuing this path for many more years to come! My Top 10 Yearly Homeschool Planning Tips Note: PRAYER is essential to EVERY part. 1. Revisit my homeschool purpose. Why am I doing this in the first place? If you don't have a clear vision, stop here and prayerfully consider this with your husband. This is what helps you persevere on the tough days. This purpose will steer your planning and curriculum decisions. 2. Know who you are/know who your kids are. God made each of our families unique. Embrace the individuality of your family. Carefully (prayerfully) consider the needs/goals for your child(ren) as well as you, the teacher. … [Read more...]
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