Want to know how to have a great first day of homeschool? I am by no means an expert at this and there are other homeschool parents with more experience, but here are my 3 best tips for a great first day of homeschool, and the third one, just might surprise you!
3 Tips for a Great First Day of Homeschool
1. Be Organized
If you're not ready, don't start yet. Wait till you are ready. The more organized you can be, the better your first day (and week, and month) will go.
Kids appreciate knowing what to expect and usually do well with a schedule. If you have that plan in place and explain it the first day, or even give them a copy of the schedule, and stick to it, things will go better. Check out our 10 Days to an Organized Homeschool Course Here.
2. Do It Lightly
Don't try to do all of everything the first day. It takes extra time to find a place for all the new books and school supplies.
Figuring out the schedule and place for each class and study time, instrument practice time etc. Don't kill yourself (or the joy of the first day) in trying to “do it all”.
Whatever is the hardest, or takes the most devoted time, maybe leave that subject until the third day or the second week, once you have the schedule down pat and everything else under control and figured out.
Another good idea is to have a 2-day school week for the first week, to kind of ease everyone into the new school year.
3. Have Fun
This is one we often overlook. “Fun? This is school. It's not supposed to be fun.” I beg to differ! Believe me, if it is enjoyable for you and the kids today, day 2 and 3 and 4 and so on will go so much better. Plan a little unexpected fun as part of the day, an Uno Game, a new puzzle, maybe even something surprising and a little crazy, like our First Day TP fight last year.
More Ideas
If you're looking for more great ideas, be sure to follow my Homeschool Pinterest Boards!
What are your best tips for a great first day of school?