Last week we looked at Tip #1 for a successful homeschool year: Plan for Variety. Today let’s continue with our quick reminders and Tip #2.

Tip #2: Shop with Purpose

Just as it is difficult to create a building project without the proper tools, it is well nigh impossible to have a successful homeschool year without the right resources. Make sure you end up with a stack of useful resource tools when you finish your school shopping. Shop with purpose.

Ask these four questions to identify which resources will be the most useful to you in your upcoming year.

Will this resource help me reach my goals?
If you haven’t already done so, take some time to map out what you want to cover this year and what your goals are for each child.
Will this resource help me meet a legal requirement?
Make sure you know what is required in your state or province and gather whatever is needed to comply.
Does this resource agree with my personal standards?
Read the labels. Peruse the samples. Make sure you are comfortable with the resource before you buy it.
Is this resource a good fit for my family during this season of life?
Situations change. One beauty of homeschooling is that you can adjust your schedule, approach, and resources to fit whatever situation you are facing. Choose what will work best now.

Oh, and one more reminder: Just because a resource is expensive, doesn’t meant it will solve all your problems. Just because a resource is free, doesn’t mean it will help you reach your goals. Gather your resources with purpose.

Plan for variety. Shop with purpose. Next week we’ll look at Tip #3.