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We're in the middle of our 5th year of homeschooling. I still can't believe we've been on this journey for that long! Every year our homeschool schedule as been a little different.
Homeschooling with a Modular Schedule
Last year, we used a modular schedule for the first time. Rather than trying to fit every subject into each week day, we rotated the subjects. Each day we did what I believe are essentials first: Bible and math. Then for weeks at a time, Jonathan and I would immerse ourselves into one of the other subjects. We rotated through history, worldview, science, spelling, and other extras.
Jonathan and I both enjoyed this schedule. The downside is that we'd go weeks and weeks before coming back around to subjects that he really enjoyed. Over the summer, he and I talked about how we could change the schedule for this coming year to lessen those stretches. Our solution was to try a modular week schedule.
Our New Block Homeschool Schedule
This year, our schedule looks like this:
- Everyday: Bible and math
- Mondays: Worldview
- Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: History
- Wednesdays: Science
After we finish these subjects, the rest of the day is for reading and other exploration. Some of those things include art, computer coding, Minecraft, electronics with Snap Circuits, movies, and whatever else catches his interest.
This is the first year that I've had Jacob actively and regularly involved in our school day. This modular schedule for homeschooling makes it easier for me to schedule time for his schoolwork into our day. After Bible and breakfast, I usually read to Jacob and do any other activities with him that need my direct attention. During this time, Jonathan works on chores, any school work he can do independently like starting his math, and listens in on the stories. Then, Jacob is off to play and I can do any reading aloud and direct teaching with Jonathan.
How to Create Your Homeschooling Schedule
After 5 years of homeschooling, we've tried a little bit of everything when it comes to scheduling. We afternoon schooled for a while when Jacob was little and into every thing. We've done all subjects everyday or nearly every day. We've done the big block modular scheduling. Right now, the smaller weekly block scheduling is working well for us.
The key seems to be to evaluate these things:
- Attention span of your child
- Interests of your child
- Learning style of your child
- Number of child you're teaching
- Subjects you're teaching
- Methods you're using to teach
- Your teaching style
- Dad's work schedule
- Mom's work schedule
- Outside activities
- Anything else that affects your schedule
From there, put together what works for you, your kids, and your family. Homeschooling is not one-size fits all. I love that we can tailor our homeschooling schedule and education to meet the needs of our kids and our family.
What is your homeschool schedule? Is it working? Not working? Why? Share with us in the comments!
