.png)
When I first started homeschooling my active kindergartener, I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of planning required. As a former kindergarten teacher, I was used to having a structured curriculum handed to me, but homeschooling demanded a whole new level of organization and creativity. I needed a tool that could help me keep track of lessons, activities, and the ever-changing needs of my curious little boy. That’s when I created the Charlotte Mason Homeschool Planner, of course it did not look the way it is now - it was more like boxes, scribbles doodles and words and it transformed our homeschooling journey.
The Charlotte Mason method resonated with me because of its focus on short, engaging lessons, nature study, and living books. But implementing this method effectively required careful planning, especially when balancing household chores, teaching, and caring for a sick old big dog. This planner (note book just then) became my lifeline, allowing me to create a seamless and nurturing educational environment for my son. And now, I am sharing it with you, more organized and of course with a beautiful layout and design.
How the Planner Helped Us Thrive
Monthly and Weekly Planning
The planner includes both monthly and weekly templates, making it easy to map out our educational goals and daily activities. Each month, I jot down our primary objectives, resources, and habit-training focus. This big-picture view helps me stay on track and ensures we cover all the essential areas of the Charlotte Mason method.
Short Lessons and Living Books
The weekly layout is perfect for organizing our short lessons. I love the dedicated space for listing the living books we plan to read. Seeing our reading list laid out keeps me motivated and helps my son look forward to our storytime sessions. The planner’s design encourages us to explore a wide range of literature, making learning a delightful adventure.
Nature Study and Art Appreciation
One of the most transformative aspects of the planner is the nature study and art appreciation sections. With an elderly dog in tow, planning our outdoor adventures became much more manageable. We’d head out to the backyard or a nearby park, and my son would observe the birds or plants he found fascinating. These moments of discovery were not only educational but also incredibly bonding.
Habit Training and Routine
The planner’s habit-training section is a game-changer. Teaching my son simple habits, like setting the table or tidying up his toys, became a part of our daily routine. These small tasks instilled a sense of responsibility in him and provided much-needed structure to our day. Plus, it freed me up to focus on our sick old dog's needs without feeling overwhelmed.
Find the list of habits in this blog: Charlotte Mason's List of Habits
At the end of each week, the planner’s reflection section allows me to jot down what worked and what didn’t. This space for reflection has been invaluable in adapting our approach to better suit my son’s learning style and our family’s rhythm. It’s a gentle reminder that homeschooling is a journey, and it’s okay to make adjustments along the way.
Embracing the Journey
Homeschooling with a kindergartener is no easy feat, but the Charlotte Mason Homeschool Planner has made it not only possible but enjoyable. It’s helped me create a harmonious balance between education and everyday life, ensuring that my son receives a rich, well-rounded education while we navigate the beautiful chaos of family life.
If you’re a new homeschool mom or dad feeling overwhelmed by the planning process, I highly recommend giving this planner a try. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can bring structure, creativity, and joy to your homeschooling journey. Remember, you’re not alone in this – embrace the process, and happy homeschooling!
Find the Planner on my website store: Charlotte Mason Homeschool Planner