There is a popular topic among homeschool moms this time of year: Purging.

Some of us relish it, others detest it. If you fall in the detest column, I have some words of encouragement to help you get started. And yes, I do ALL of these every year. 😊

• You will see progress if you spend just 5 (or 2!) minutes a day spent going through your books and materials. Set a timer!
• Baby step it. Commit to culling items from one shelf, one subject, or one grade level.
• Pack it up. Only keep out the homeschool materials you are currently using. Packed items can be organized by month/season/child/grade level, or whatever category works for you.
• Give it away. I am very attached to my books, but I love to share them with others! This is a BIG win-win for me. Think of it as finding the right home for the right book – a place where that book will be loved and appreciated. I think my friends like this option, too. 😉
• Donate it. Contact your state homeschool organization to see if they can match your donation with a family in need. Or, drop your books at your closest Salvation Army or other donation center. My Salvation Army has a homeschool section now!
• Involve the kids. I like to involve my kiddos for two reasons. One, I don’t want to clear out any books they love. Two, we talk about plans for the upcoming year together while we work.
• A fresh start. Purging will simplify the start of your school year and provide a new focus for you and your children. A clean slate is so refreshing! Which reminds me – time to clean the whiteboard.
• Sell it! Who doesn’t like to make money? From online marketplaces to eBay, there are several places to sell used curriculum. Please, make sure it is clean with no markings.
• Trash it. Sometimes, it just has to be done. Recycle what you can and throw the rest away. Only quality items should be passed on to other homeschool families.

Which option(s) will you choose? You can always drop me a line and let me know how it’s going!

Homeschool Happy!

Jessica Leavitt, Homeschool Sunshine Coach

If you need more encouragement, consider signing up for homeschool coaching. Find out how coaching can help, and read how Homeschool Sunshine Coaching has helped other moms gain more confidence and increase the joy in their homeschool!