organization
A Day in the Life of Our Homeschool

with 6 Boys

Articles

/

A Day in the Life of Our Homeschool

A Day in the Life of Our Homeschool

Life in our home is anything but quiet—six boys ages 0 to 10 will do that!

Over the years, we’ve found that what works best for us isn’t a rigid schedule where the clock dictates every move, but a routine. Instead of “it’s 8:35, flip the page,” we use a rhythm of first this, then that. It keeps us moving forward without the stress of constantly watching the clock.

Here’s what our days usually look like right now:

  • Early Morning Energy (5:30 – 7:30)

Our three big boys are up at the crack of dawn—usually 5:30. By 7:30, they’ve eaten breakfast, finished their morning routines, and are ready for the day. The littles (ages 0–3) may join them, but often sleep a little later.

  • Timberdoodle Work (7:30 – 8:30)

From 7:30 to 8:30, the older boys pitch in with Timberdoodle work. We had to get a special judge’s waiver to allow them to start young, but they mostly love it. The chance to save up for LEGO is a strong motivator! We love the help—and they love the responsibility.

At the same time, it’s prime school time with the littles. Our 3-year-old adores workbooks, and we mix in puzzles, occupational therapy activities, games, and sensory play. The little boys are so proud to have their own Timberdoodle kits, customized just for them.

  • Independent Work & Baby’s Nap (8:30 – 9:30)

When the baby takes his first nap, the big kids tackle their checklists. Each has a schedule based on his Timberdoodle kit, and they’re able to do much of their work independently. Meanwhile, the younger ones continue their own “school” or break to swing and play.

  • Farm Chores & Outdoor Time (9:30 – 11:30)

Once the baby wakes up, it’s time to head outside for farm chores. Our little menagerie includes mini plush lop rabbits, a donkey, a mini horse, a few farm cats, and Beulah-the-Timberdoodle-dog. (We did have chickens until raccoons had other ideas!)

Feeding animals and walking the property gives everyone a chance to burn off energy. On good days, we linger outside longer—fresh air works wonders.

  • Our “Big Meal” Lunch (11:30)

We serve our largest meal of the day at midday—so lunch feels more like supper. It fuels us well for the second half of the day.

  • Nap, Chores, & Quiet Time (12:00 – 2:00)

The toddler naps for about an hour, the baby takes his second nap, and the big boys rotate through their responsibilities. They finish any leftover schoolwork, help with lunch clean-up, and then shift into quiet time—reading, LEGO, or an audiobook.

  • Outdoor Play & Adventures (2:00 – 3:00)

Afternoons are made for outdoor activities whenever the weather cooperates. Sometimes, that means playing in the field, hiking in the woods, or even a family disc golf game.

  • Swimming, Dinner, & Evenings (3:00 – bedtime)

By 3:00, we’re usually ready to head out swimming. Afterward, it’s dinner together, evening chores, and the wind-down routines that usher everyone toward bedtime.

The Big Picture

Having six boys means our days are full, and no two ever run exactly the same. But by leaning on a routine instead of a strict schedule, we can keep the day moving without everyone feeling rushed or tied to the clock.

Anchors like meals, naps, and chores give us structure; the rest is a rhythm of first this, then that. It’s flexible, realistic, and keeps the joy in homeschooling.