School's Out, Australians!

Aussie homeschooling parents, we made it through 2024! Can I get a collective high five? Now it’s time to pause, take a deep breath, and set ourselves up for an even better year ahead. I’m talking about a fresh start for 2025 — one that doesn’t feel like a hamster wheel of curriculums, activities, and Pinterest-perfect goals. Let’s keep it simple, real, and joyful.

Take Stock of 2024

Before we dive headfirst into planning, let’s reflect. Gather your kids, grab some snacks, and chat about the highs and lows of 2024. What worked? What didn’t? Did those fancy science kits gather dust? Did a random library book spark a month-long passion for volcanoes? Did a daily schedule feel like too much?

Be honest with yourselves and your kids. This is the time to let go of what didn’t work without guilt. Didn’t finish the math workbook? Who cares? Your child still learned. Didn’t stick to that detailed timetable? Maybe your family thrives better with flexibility. It’s all good.  I used to get hung up on 'wasting' $200 on a curriculum item, but you know, a decade or two on, I can't recall the waste, I only remember the good times, the fun, the love.  Don't dwell on mistakes or disappointments.

Listen Deeply

Here’s the magic: involve your kids in the planning process. I’m not saying they should decide everything (pretty sure my 8-year-old would just pencil in “Minecraft” every day), but ask them about their dreams and interests.

What do they want to learn in 2025? Maybe they want to learn about space, try cooking, or build the ultimate treehouse. Their input matters. Listening deeply now can save you from dragging them through something they’re not excited about later.  It also gives you time over the summer break to help make these dreams come true.

Don’t Over-Plan

Repeat after me: We don’t need to do everything. Seriously. The temptation to pack your calendar with ALL the things is real, but resist! Choose a few key focuses for the year. Leave room for life’s wonderful surprises—those unexpected interests and spontaneous adventures.

When you’re planning, think broad strokes, not micromanagement. Instead of writing “Complete Unit 7 of XYZ History by Term 2”, jot down something like “Explore Australian history through books, outings, and projects.” Leave space for the magic to happen!

Create a Flexible Framework

Sketch out a loose rhythm for your days or weeks. Maybe mornings are for focused work and afternoons are for creative pursuits. Maybe Mondays are nature days and Fridays are for catching up or hanging out. Having a framework helps, but keep it flexible. Life happens—sick days, road trips, surprise visitors. Your plan should bend, not break.  Consider planning for a 3 or 4 day 'school week' if you've been overwhelmed by 5 days...  try it!

Keep the Joy

At the heart of homeschooling is the joy of learning together. Remember why you’re doing this. It’s not to tick boxes or meet some imaginary standard. It’s about raising curious, capable kids who love to learn. Make space for laughter, mess, and connection. When you’re in the thick of it, take a breath and remember: This is the good stuff.  

Let’s Do This!

So, sit down with your kids (as a group and 1:1) and some blank paper, maybe add a splash of colour and creativity. Plan for a 2025 that feels light, manageable, and full of possibility. You’ve got this. And remember, you’re not alone—we’re all figuring it out as we go (including me, in my third decade of homeschooling!)

Here’s to a fabulous year of homeschooling in 2025. Let’s make it amazing!

Want some tools to get organised for the new year?  Check out my Organised Homeschool 7 day mini course for just AUD$7.  I also have a 75 page printable planner for 2025 on offer - book a 1:1 session with me in January to get this for FREE!