3 Things To Know If You’re Starting Homeschool After Christmas Break

If you’re thinking about pulling your kids out after Christmas break… just know you are not the only mom Googling homeschool things at 11pm trying to figure this out. Truly. So from the jump, DO.NOT.PANIC.

You are the parent and you are allowed to take control of your child’s education. And good for you for doing so. Redeeming this part of your childs life will be one of the best decisions you will make for your family.

So if you’re starting in January, here are a few things I really want you to know:

1. You don’t have to start perfectly
Can we just agree that January is a weird time to start anything? My kids are still in post-holiday candy withdrawal and I’m over here trying to remember what day it is. AND I’m not sure about you, but January is forever and always tied to failed New Year's resolutions. I never keep these. And I’m sure you struggle too. 

But beginning the journey of homeschooling your kids is NOT a New Years resolution. So don't fall into the trap of thinking you must do this thing perfectly every single day or you fail.
You are transforming the dynamic of your family and that takes time. 

If you are taking your children out of public school I highly, highly recommend deschooling for a period of time. Spend your “school” days reading, spending time together, doing simple crafts, and going for lots of walks. You could start a new hobby together.  And I really do mean this for high schoolers as well. Take 3-4 weeks to just be together and allow the muscle memory of what public school feels like to fade away.

One big thing I would do is check out the HSLDA website for your state's homeschool laws. Especially if your child has been in public school. There are probably some steps you may have to do to notify the local school system. 

Also, it is ok to not jump through the school districts hoops if what they want isn't spelled out in the law… Just saying.

2. You don’t need a full curriculum right away
Don’t panic-order five different math programs. Starting after Christmas actually gives you this beautiful window to try things, borrow things, or even just do a simple workbook from Target while you figure out what your family needs. A lot of curriculum websites offer free intro’s into their curriculums.

 If you know other homeschool families, peruse their curriculums. I would also take the opportunity to attend an open house for co-ops/ microschools/ hybrid schools/ resource centers that are iin your area. This is a fantastic way to see what other homeschool families are doing.

Classical conversations offers all sorts of open houses throughout the “academic year.” You can find a list of their events here. You can join a couple of homeschooling FB groups and see what other families are talking about. You have time to pick out a curriculum that fits your family rhythm. 

Lastly, check out your local library. Chances are they are probably plugged into the local homeschool community and have resources available too. 

3. It might feel weird. And that’s okay
The transition from school to home can be amazing… and also really awkward. For everyone. You’re suddenly with your kids all day and they’re also trying to figure out their new “normal.” Some kids decompress fast, others take months. Some moms too, honestly.

If your house feels a little upside down, you’re probably doing it right. If it feels illegal, you are definitely doing it right. And this is especially true for us parents that grew up in the public school system, it feels absolutely wild to be doing something that fundamentally looks different than state school. It just does.

This season might look messy. A little loud. Maybe confusing. But I promise, the sweetest homeschool moments don’t happen on the first day anyway. They sneak up later when you’re not even trying and you think, wait… we actually get to do this life together. That is the gift of redeeming your time with your children.

If you’re starting after Christmas…

Honestly the biggest thing I want you to hear is this: You’re not behind. There’s no schedule you’re supposed to match. You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone. And if this is where God is nudging you, you can absolutely trust that gentle whisper and take this step.
You are the expert of your child and you can trust that knowledge. 

Lori Lacey
To know God and to make Him Known

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