I Can’t Homeschool: I’m Unorganized

Homeschooling can seem like a daunting journey, especially for those who are new to the concept. We are unsure of where to start, overwhelmed by the notion of taking on our children’s education, and feel as if we are not enough. May we offer encouragement for families unsure of the adventure called homeschooling.

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We’re already waking up at the crack of dawn, rushing to get several kids out the door for school, moving quickly all day long to get things done before the kids get home, helping the kids get homework done, and then bustling to get dinner on the table at a decent hour. We’re barely getting it all done as it is, and now the Lord is asking us to homeschool. How are we supposed to do it all when organization isn’t our strong suit?

As parents, our job is quite full. From the moment we get up to the moment we go to bed, we are active, busy people. However, if we’re truly honest with ourselves, how we spend our time is the key. Sure, we bustle around, but is half of what we do necessary? How much free time are we spending on fruitless pursuits which could be better spent?

One of the first ways to overcome the obstacle of disorganization is to take a look at our routines and start carving out free time. If you are considering homeschooling, take into account you will be able to cut out a few areas which are currently eating into your time:

• No more rushing to get the kids off to school; they school at home now!
• No more packing sack lunches, and making sure they have everything they need. Everything is right at home.
• No more dropping off and picking kids up from school.
• No more homework! (That alone saves hours of time.)

Once you’ve taken your time into account and determined how much time you really have available each day. Then it’s time to start organizing your year, months, weeks, and days. You don’t need anything concrete, just a general plan to get you started and help get the ball rolling. (If I’m going to homeschool, when are we going to start; when are we going to take breaks; and when are holidays? Do I want to school four days a week or five?) Keep in mind, no two homes function in the same way. Pray about how the Lord would have you establish your family’s routine, and then plan accordingly.

With the task of organizing time behind you, take an opportunity to look at your resources and simplify those things you already have. Find what works for you and make it happen. If you’re looking to better organize life in general, and create a more manageable home, THIS might be perfect place to start!

Being organized isn’t easy for everyone, but if the Lord is calling you to homeschool, He will provide both the helps and the resources you need to manage your time. Pray about your desire to homeschool, asking the Lord to help you in this area. Set a plan in place, without a plan you are guaranteed to fail. Then, prayerfully move forward with the understanding that routines and good organization change with your growing needs.

Again, no two families are going to organize their homes and homeschooling in the same manner. Don’t allow this to discourage you from establishing your own routine. With God’s help, you can move past this concern and start enjoying the adventure of homeschooling. It’s summer time, start planning now and embrace the coming year!

“But all things should be done decently and in order.”
I Corinthians 14:40

Time to Chime In: What is the hardest aspect of life for you to organize?

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