For many homeschooling families, summer break doesn’t look quite like it does in traditional school systems—and that’s one of the joys of homeschooling. While public and private schools follow rigid calendars, homeschoolers have the flexibility to shape their summer months around what matters most: faith, family, and purposeful learning.

At Excelsior Academy, we encourage families to use the summer season not only for rest, but also for renewal—relationally, spiritually, and academically. Whether you’re taking a full break or continuing light studies, here are a few ways to approach summer in a way that honors your family’s rhythm and values.

1. Take Time to Rest

Homeschooling is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting—especially for parents who carry the dual roles of educator and caregiver. Summer is a God-given opportunity to step back and rest from routine.

• Let go of rigid schedules for a while
• Prioritize time outdoors, family outings, and unstructured play
• Take a break from grading and lesson planning
• Read for fun, not for a book list

Rest is not a waste—it’s a renewal of strength (Isaiah 40:31). When homeschool families rest well, they’re able to return in the fall with vision and energy.

2. Reflect on the Past Year

Summer provides space to evaluate the previous school year and reflect on what went well—and what didn’t.

Consider:

• Which subjects sparked curiosity or caused frustration?
• What teaching methods worked best for each child?
• Did your schedule allow for enough margin and peace?

This is also a great time to talk with your children about what they loved or struggled with. Honest reflection leads to intentional adjustments in the year ahead.

3. Keep Learning Light and Fun

Some homeschool families choose year-round schooling, while others pause formal academics entirely. Either way, summer is perfect for keeping learning informal and enjoyable.

Try:

• Reading living books together
• Visiting historical sites, museums, or science centers
• Exploring nature and journaling about it
• Cooking, gardening, or doing small building projects

Learning doesn’t stop when the curriculum closes. Real-life learning reinforces what’s already been taught and develops a lifelong love of discovery.

4. Plan for the Coming Year

Once you’ve had a few weeks to breathe, summer becomes a helpful time to:

• Choose or research curriculum
• Set educational goals
• Organize homeschool spaces and supplies
• Plan schedules, co-op days, or extracurricular activities

Intentional planning now can lead to a smoother, more confident start when your new homeschool year begins.

5. Build Community and Memories

Summer is a time to deepen relationships—with your family, your church, and other homeschoolers. Consider:

• Hosting or joining a homeschool playgroup or book club
• Attending Christian camps or VBS programs
• Taking a family road trip with educational stops
• Scheduling parent fellowship time or support groups

Community is vital to homeschool success. These connections bring encouragement, accountability, and joy to the journey.

Final Thoughts

Summer break is a gift. For homeschool families, it doesn’t have to mean stopping everything or filling every hour. It can be a time of resting in God’s goodness, reflecting on the past, and preparing for what’s ahead.

At Excelsior Academy, we’re cheering you on in every season. Whether you’re pausing, planning, or pressing on this summer, may it be filled with peace, purpose, and the presence of Christ.