In planning out my week, I thought about a few small things that have big impact in returning to rhythm after an extended break. We typically school year-round, but take longer breaks in the summer and winter, with a week off here and there.
Meal Planning
I am actually surprised how much of a weight off my shoulders it is to simply write out the plans for lunches and dinners ahead of time. Meals seem to sneak up on us everyday, but with a plan, I can proactively squash that mild panic or fast food temptation.
Set the Table to Start the Rhythm
Laying out morning menus and narration notebooks (my favorite are the top bound Ruth Journals) the night before has been so helpful! When the kids come down to start the day, they grab breakfast and we can get right into Bible without much delay.
Kid Planners
I purchased each of my kids a planner. My little kids use inexpensive dated planners from Amazon, while my middle schooler is using this more detailed planner (discount code coming soon).
They fill out the daily subjects, and I add in more details like their reading assignments, chores, and loop subjects. This has helped immensely when I have to step away for a phone call or appointment because they know what needs to be completed that day without waiting for me to return.
Curriculum that Fosters Rhythm
Choosing a curriculum or plan that is living books based has made the process of jumping back into homeschool rhythm more enjoyable. Living books have become our compass for learning. They show us which way to move next. Knowing my kids will find joy in the next we’ll dive into has been encouraging to me. Also, I have found that using a planner you love helps too (my homeschool planner is irresistible to me!).
[…] Nothing is more satisfying than hearing someone read my blog post, and tell me they found something that has helped them in their homeschool journey. If you do order one of these gorgeous planners or notebooks, post it and tag me on IG (and @annavancepaperco). I LOVE seeing these in the wild of our homeschool community! Now that you have your planner, read this post to get back in to a great homeschool rhythm! […]