Homeschool success is supported by organization. Though your schedule, routine, "school" area and record keeping do not have to be as regimented as a traditional school setting, there is a need to do things decently and in order.

Just as you have put research, thought, and time into learning about homeschool methods, learning styles, and the proper curriculum to use, it is also important to take all those elements and integrate them together in an organized fashion. There are homeschooling families who choose to let things go more naturally with the flow of life - that is a method all its own. The tips below are directed at the more traditional homeschool approaches.

Calendar/Planner - It is helpful for many homeschool moms to rely on an overall calendar, like the larger desk or wall calendars, to schedule family routines and activities. Some may prefer a carry-around planner and others may use both. Homeschooling does allow you to have a more relaxed schedule from day to day, if you like, but it is good to have an overall picture of what your week looks like. Don't just write in "school" time, but also include field trips, extra-curricular activities, sports practice or games, class day schedules, sibling schedules, and family appointments and responsibilities.

Record-Keeping - It is mandated by state law to produce certain records outlining, sometimes in detail, what your child is learning. If you are a member of a local support group or a private school satellite program, record-keeping helps may be offered to you. Come up with a way to file or organize your papers for this purpose. A 3-ring binder or a accordian file are two options. It will be important to keep track of assessments, concepts covered, and student progress. Again, this is where state standards come in. Be sure you know what needs to be covered for the grade level per your state.

Schedule vs. Routine - This will depend greatly on the method of homeschooling you've chosen and on the learning style of your child. If you are an eclectic or an unschooler, school takes place all over the map - meaning life provides the lessons or you may enjoy having the freedom to not constrain the child by a strict schedule or to a regimented curriculum. On the other hand - if your child thrives on boundaries and needs structure, a specific schedule will serve you well. Maybe you are dedicating the majority of the academic work to the mornings before lunch and leaving the afternoons to PE, art, and imaginative play. This would be considered more of a routine. Placing specific blocks of time on subjects and lesson plans coincides with scheduling. Regardless of which works best for you, it can be very helpful to get these types of plans in place (often on paper) prior to starting your homeschool year.

"School" House - One of the great benefits to educating your child at home is throwing off the shoulds. There is not one place you "should" do school in your home. For some families this may make the hair stand up on the back of your neck. Let's all calm down and take a deep breath. If you believe designating a specific area with a desk and all your homeschooling books and supplies is the most nurturing way to do school - have at it. The thing is - you can do "school" curled up in a blanket on the couch, in your pajamas, while drinking a cup of hot cocoa. You can do school at the local book store in an overstuffed chair or outside at the park on a sunny day. This is one of those areas of getting organized that is based completely on preference. Is it helpful to have your supplies, books, and work area neat, clean, and ready for work? Duh! But, school can still take place if you don't. Dont' get caught up in the trap of becoming the organizing mom rather than the homeschooling mom.

Getting organized can help your homeschool year go more smoothly. And, organization helps you actually school your child. Be careful with letting things go too loosely when it comes to being organized. Without some sort of framework, you are in danger of missing the mark.

Using a calendar or planner, keeping records, adhering to a schedle or routine, and designating and organizing your "school" house are all key factors when it comes to getting organized for homeschool. Be sure to read through the entire ISPMOM.com series on How to Get Started Homeschooling and grab some great nuggets to help you find success with homeschooling.