Recap Our First 8 Weeks of the 2024-2025 Homeschool Year: An Honest Look
Welcome back to Making Everyday Magic! As we wrap up the first eight weeks of the 2024-2025 homeschool year, I’m excited to share a comprehensive recap of how things are progressing for our family. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just beginning, these insights into our homeschool journey could offer encouragement, relatable challenges, and maybe even a few tips for your own homeschooling experience.
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Homeschool Setup for the 2024-2025 School Year
This year, we’re homeschooling a seventh grader and a third grader, marking our eighth year of homeschooling. These first eight weeks have really emphasized how far we’ve come and what it means to have so many years of homeschooling under our belt. What I’ve learned along the way has made this first quarter smoother and more enjoyable, so I’ll be diving into some specifics on how our routines, curriculum choices, and homeschool dynamics are shaping up.
Algebra 1: From Struggle to Success
Starting Algebra 1 with my seventh grader was a rough ride at first. We initially began with the Algebra 1 Principles of Secondary Mathematics curriculum, but it quickly became apparent that we needed a change. After some frustration and genuine struggles, we made the switch to Denison Algebra 1. This shift was a game-changer! Seeing the difference in understanding and enjoyment has been a huge win in our first eight weeks, proving that sometimes pivoting can lead to success.
Early Vacation and Getting Back on Track
We broke our usual routine with an early vacation, only two or three weeks into the school year. Generally, I wait six to eight weeks before taking a break, but this year we caught some great travel deals. Surprisingly, taking time off early didn’t throw us off as much as I anticipated. In fact, it helped us refocus and come back even more motivated, perhaps because we’re more experienced now and able to regain momentum more easily.
Growing Independence and Learning Autonomy
One of the most significant changes in our homeschool is the increase in independence from both my kids. With my youngest in third grade and becoming a confident reader, she’s capable of tackling many of her assignments solo. My seventh grader, too, has embraced more self-directed learning, especially with online and video-based lessons. This growth in independence has allowed me to take on a more supportive role, acting as “support staff” rather than the primary instructor for every single subject. Watching them manage their tasks has been one of the most rewarding parts of these first eight weeks.
Curriculum Standouts: The Bright Spots
Several curriculum choices have truly shone this year, bringing excitement and engagement into our homeschool:
- Michael Clay Thompson Level 1: This curriculum has become a new favorite with my third grader. Although I had mixed feelings when using it with my older child, we’ve found it to be a refreshing change this year. It aligns perfectly with the foundational work we’ve established.
- Chemistry: We’re diving into middle school chemistry as a family activity, making science a hands-on, collaborative experience. The free, online curriculum has been fantastic, and purchasing materials chapter by chapter has kept costs manageable. This project-based approach has been incredibly engaging for all of us.
- Dinos 101: This free, online course through the University of Alberta has brought an unexpected level of fun to our science studies. It’s become a fantastic addition to our weekly schedule, proving that advanced-level learning can be accessible and enjoyable for younger students, too.
Everything we are using can be found HERE
Schooling on the Go: Adjusting to a Busy Schedule
With two days of our school week spent out of the house, we’ve had to adapt our learning environment. We pack lunches, organize backpacks, and make the most of our time in the car or at extracurricular activities. The only hiccup? I keep forgetting essential materials like my instructor manuals! My kids have adapted seamlessly, but I am definitely the “weak link” in our on-the-go setup. I’m learning to stay organized to keep up with their pace.
An Optimistic Look Ahead
Wrapping up these first eight weeks has shown me just how far we’ve come, and it’s energizing to see everything coming together. The smooth flow of our days, the ease with which my kids tackle their assignments, and our ability to rebound from rough starts all serve as reminders that consistency pays off in homeschooling.
This first quarter has been an incredible journey, blending new challenges with the familiarity of routines that truly work for us. I’m looking forward to seeing how the next quarter unfolds and continuing to share our experiences with the homeschooling community. Here’s to more growth, more learning, and an amazing year ahead for all of us!
Let’s Connect!
How have your first few weeks been? Are there any standouts in your homeschool, or maybe some areas you’d like to change? I’d love to hear how your first quarter is going! Connect with me in the comments, and let’s support each other on this homeschooling journey.
