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The Ultimate Homeschool Planning Checklist

✅ Set Your Foundation

Before you even choose curriculum, start by building the big-picture framework for your homeschool journey.

  • Decide on your homeschool approach (classical, Charlotte Mason, eclectic, unschooling, etc.)
  • Research your state’s homeschool laws and requirements
  • Identify your child’s learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.)
  • Set academic and personal goals for the year
  • Choose your homeschool calendar (year-round, traditional, custom)

Need help clarifying your vision? We walk parents through these foundational decisions during our homeschool consultations.

🧠 Plan the Academics

Now that your foundation is clear, it’s time to get into the academics.

  • Take a placement test to identify strengths and learning gaps
  • Choose curriculum or request guidance from an expert
  • Build a subject list that aligns with your goals and grade level
  • Design a weekly schedule or routine that works for your family
  • Plan for electives, enrichment, and outside activities (art, music, sports)

At My Tutoring Spot, we offer placement testing and curriculum planning to help families create a learning path that’s both rigorous and realistic.

📋 Track Progress and Growth

Keeping good records doesn’t have to be stressful. Start simple—and stay consistent.

  • Decide how you’ll measure progress (tests, portfolios, projects, discussions)
  • Set up a system for tracking grades and assignments
  • Begin building a transcript early, especially for grades 8 and up
  • Plan quarterly or monthly check-ins to reflect and adjust
  • Consider prep for standardized testing (PSAT, SAT, ACT, etc.) if relevant

We can help you start transcripts, organize grades, and track academic credits with clarity and ease.

🎓 Plan for Graduation (Even If It Feels Far Away)

It’s never too early to think long term. Planning ahead ensures that your child’s education stays on track for their goals.

  • Know the graduation requirements for your state or chosen diploma path
  • Map out the high school credits needed over 4 years
  • Document extracurriculars, volunteer work, and special interests
  • Begin building a portfolio (great for college or career readiness)
  • Decide how you’ll issue a diploma (umbrella school, independent, or with support)

We offer credit audits, degree planning, and diploma support so families feel confident and covered through high school and beyond.

💡 Don’t Forget to Plan for You, Too

A thriving homeschool isn’t just about academics—it’s also about creating rhythms and routines that support the parent.

  • Join a homeschool co-op, local group, or online community
  • Block off time for planning and rest
  • Expect an adjustment period—especially in your first 3 months
  • Remember: You don’t have to do this alone

📝 Free Download: Printable Homeschool Checklist

Want a printable version of this checklist to use throughout the year? [Download the PDF version here] (link coming soon!)

💬 Let’s Build Your Custom Plan Together

If this checklist got you thinking, but you’re still not sure where to start—let’s talk. We’ll walk through it together and build a homeschool plan tailored to your child, your schedule, and your goals.

👉 Schedule Your Free Consultation

Signs Your Child May Be Falling Behind in School

Academic success doesn’t always come easily, and sometimes children begin to fall behind without parents even realizing it. A slight drop in grades, a change in attitude, or even a lack of interest in schoolwork can be early signals of larger issues. Recognizing these signs early can be crucial to providing the right support and helping your child get back on track.

Often, these struggles can stem from gaps in foundational learning, anxiety in a classroom setting, or difficulties focusing and staying organized. Unfortunately, many students are too embarrassed to ask for help, fearing judgment from peers or teachers. That’s where attentive parenting and open communication come in.

When children begin to disengage academically, their confidence may also suffer. They may feel they’re not “smart enough,” which can lead to a harmful cycle of poor performance and low self-esteem. Catching this cycle early is essential.

Professional tutoring can provide both academic reinforcement and confidence-building strategies that empower students to thrive again in school. Whether the issue lies in math, reading comprehension, or test anxiety, targeted interventions can make a significant difference.

Key Signs to Watch For:

  • Grades slowly or suddenly declining

  • Avoiding homework or lying about assignments

  • Feeling frustrated, anxious, or withdrawn after school

Parental Tips:

  • Initiate gentle conversations about school experiences

  • Check notebooks and communication from teachers regularly

  • Create a calm, consistent homework environment at home

Benefits of Early Tutoring Support: