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Curricula Research & Planning

The most efficient curricula research tool is Cathy Duffy Reviews, she lists almost everything. I find her top suggestions skew towards faith-based choices, however there is nothing more comprehensive with direct links.

Before choosing curricula, spend some time reading about different learning styles, teaching styles and considering your family’s needs. If you need 1-1 support, please reach out via email, I frequently host small group workshops for those just getting started. I also offer subject specific workshops monthly. Age gaps require more independent learning because family learning doesn’t work well with infants and older students. When juggling multiple ages it can feel impossible to teach a style with significant dictation and read aloud. If your student struggles to sit, consider more hands on projects like lapbooks. Our family has a wide variety of learning needs so I have an eclectic style that incorporates every method of learning and I make suggestions from many genres of teaching.

When planning each grade level, I love coreknowlege.org and the book Home Learning Year by Year. The printed books by Core Knowledge are fantastic for learning on the go, while travelling in the car, or relaxing at a park. The material is a great launching pad for interest led learning, giving just enough information to decide if a topic is interesting enough for more research, to check out related books from the library or go on a field trip.

Classes and Roadschooling

At my house we use visual verification to ensure tasks are complete.

  • Use a dedicated backpack for school materials, this will always be ready for class, homework on the go, travel, etc. (not a tote, not a purse, a backpack that has pockets to store all required school tools on the checklist. Don't swap each week, save the fashion changes for shoes and shirts.)

  • Download this Backpack Checklist and attach with these luggage tags, 1 side with the ID, the other side with the checklist inserted. The Rule: Students must touch the tag and verify each item before leaving home. 

Internal Backpack Organization

  • Each student needs a sturdy 2-3 inch binder clearly labeled with their name (zipper binders keep papers from falling out.)

  • Place a clear sheet protector at the front or the front of the binder to hold their weekly schedule.

  • Use color coded subject tabs with folder pockets for each subject.

  • Insert loose leaf wide ruled, lined paper in the back of the binder.

  • Use a TO DO vs. DONE folder: use a two pocket folder in the binder front labeled TO DO for all homework assignments.

  • Keep blank loose leaf pages behind the schedule for homework notes.

  • Pencil pouches inserted within the binder do not work, students can't flip the pages over and have a flat writing surface when the pouch is inside. I recommend a standard pouch placed in the backpack.

  • Use colored flags on pages in the binder for clear to do reminders.

  • Having a portable hole punch helps tremendously.

The “NO EXCUSE” Routine

  • Weekly Backpack/Binder Reset: dedicate the last 10 minutes of Friday to a cleanout and restock.

  • Night before check: students unpack and physically check all supplies and homework required for the next day.

  • The Verification: when students enter a class they should immediately place their binder on the desk, open to the correct homework tab, and be prepared for class.