8 Simple and Practical Goals for the New Homeschool Year
Every year I sit down and write out my goals for the school year, and every year they look a little different depending on the season of life we're in.
Looking back over the years, I can see how the Lord has grown my confidence in raising the children He's entrusted to my care, and I wanted to share this year's goals with you.
Homeschooling has proven to be one of the greatest sanctifying works in my life. When I look back on each year, I can see the fruit of the Spirit growing in me right alongside my kids. I also have the fruit of the Spirit passage framed on my classroom wall as a daily reminder.
Here are the goals I have for our homeschool year, and I think they can be practical goals for yours too.
1. Begin your day in God's Word and with prayer: Before you open a single school book, have your hearts already anchored in Scripture. It sets the tone for everything that follows.
2. Put your phone away during school time: Our kids deserve our full attention during school hours. Remove the distraction by putting your phone on Do Not Disturb, “bricking” it, turning on Airplane Mode, or simply leaving it in a different room entirely. I especially love the Brick device because it allows me to use my phone as a tool rather than for mindless consumption.
3. Give your kids your undivided attention: Actually listen when they're reading aloud or working through a hard math problem, instead of half listening while checking something off on your to-do list. Be present.
4. Be patient in all circumstances: Some days will be easier than others. Ask the Lord for patience moment by moment, especially when the lessons aren't going as you planned.
5. Have grace and flexibility as you adjust rhythms: After a long summer break, expect there to be some adjustments with the new routine, and give yourself (and your kids) grace in the process. Start slowly and adjust where needed after six weeks. Grace upon grace.
6. Schedule regular breaks for rest: Planning ahead for breaks makes homeschooling feel like a steady race instead of a mad dash to the finish line. Schedule regular breaks to rest, adjust, and reset what isn't working. It's much easier to work hard and steady if you have a break in sight.
7. Remember to enjoy your time together: These years and seasons are so short. We don't want to be so focused on getting through the checklist that we miss enjoying who they are right now. Remember to cherish your time together. It is a gift.
8. Delight in your kids and their education: Watching them learn and grow is one of the greatest gifts of this calling. Lean into their interests (and yours), and delight in their education together.
I pray that every year I get to look back and see the Lord working on my heart through this calling He's given me. I hope these goals encourage you as you head into your own school year too.
