Get organized!

Trying to get organized can be a challenge. Even experienced home educators find "controlling the chaos" difficult. No wonder. Your house is no longer just a home, but a school as well. That means extra books, extra paper and extra stuff in general.

An organized home (and school) runs more efficiently. You'll be focused, have better direction and get more done in less time. Successful homeschool parents have a plan that fits THEIR specific needs. They use what they have.

Many people have told me how "together" I am. I'm not exactly sure what that means, but I'll take it as a compliment. I read everything I can get my hands on and have tried dozens of different systems. Despite all the fancy and complicated methods, the one that I always return to revolves around a free calendar and a spiral notebook. Without them, I would be lost. It is not the ideal plan or method, but it works for me, and that's what counts.

Ironically, my goal is not "to get organized." My goal is to make sure my kids get the education I want them to have while leaving time for me to do some of the things I enjoy. This drives my desire to plan and execute.

Being organized doesn't mean you are inflexible. Some of the best learning experiences our family has had are ones that weren't in the schedule for the day. Have a system and a plan, but be willing to make adjustments if a great opportuntiy presents itself.

There are four areas that you need to maintain control over. Click on the link to find out more.

Your Time - Find out how to create a schedule for your year, month, week and day so you can get school and housework finished.

Your Lesson Plans - Now that you have a new pile of curriculum materials, learn how to break it down into "smaller bites" so you don't wonder how you'll ever get through it all.

Your Stuff - Control your clutter so you can find what you need when you need it.

Your Documents - Keep up with the documentation the law requires to avoid the last minute scramble at evaluation time.
Click here to find out my favorite tip for organizing your life.

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