2024 5th Grade Handbook + Scheduler

Why We Developed These Guides for You
We recognize that the curriculum Handbook sets the tone for the year, and we want to ensure it aligns well with your family's educational goals. With this in mind, we aimed to create a straightforward, user-friendly Handbook that encourages independent study from the outset. We've designed our guides to get you up and running promptly without overwhelming, boring, or confusing you.

Embracing Simplicity
We believe in keeping things simple, which is reflected in the design of our Handbook. Each curriculum kit is accompanied by a softcover Handbook measuring 8.5" x 8.5", providing easy reference without being cumbersome. Within each Handbook, you'll find essential features such as short bios of each component, access to the Online Scheduler, a reading challenge, helpful tips and tricks, and articles with insights from our 30+ years of homeschool experience. Handbook length varies by grade because of the supplemental resources we include. For instance, the 1st-grade Handbook features 36 weeks of Plus-Plus models and ideas, making it longer than the 9th-grade Handbook with no supplemental additions.

Online Schedule Planning
Let's return to a crucial aspect: schedules. With your Handbook, you gain access to Timberdoodle's Online Scheduler site, empowering you to customize your schedule to suit your preferences. From adjusting start dates and incorporating vacation weeks to adding custom courses and more, the scheduling site offers you the flexibility to adapt as desired throughout the year. Additionally, a sample schedule is printed in your Handbook.

How We Utilized Checklists
In our own family, we established a Friday family movie night rule - and only those with completed weekly checklists were able to participate. This approach instilled the importance of time management and accountability among our children, fostering invaluable independent learning skills. We offer both weekly and daily checklist options on our Online Scheduler. However, the weekly option is our favorite recommendation for your family, providing structure and the flexibility to work homeschooling around your real life.

Flexible Reading Challenge
Each Handbook includes a reading challenge tailored to the grade, with selected topics and age-appropriate book suggestions. The Handbook allows you to choose a challenge level that suits your preferences, such as light reader, interested reader, or enthralled reader. We provide the structure to broaden your child's horizons but don't use rigid reading lists, giving you the flexibility to make it work for your family.

Additional Manuals Included
Of course, each curriculum kit includes all necessary teachers' manuals and program-specific resources. Our Handbook serves as a helpful summary and planning guide, complementing these manuals to ensure you're fully equipped to embark on your homeschooling journey.

If You're Purchasing a Guide

While this Handbook is included free with its corresponding curriculum kit, we've also made it available for individual purchase based on popular demand. Please note that due to the proprietary nature of these books, they are non-returnable. If you have any questions regarding the contents, we encourage you to contact us before making your purchase. Each Handbook purchase also grants access to our custom scheduling site.