Structuring Time in A "Relaxed" Home Culture

I have shared this post in various places, like the Latter-day Homeschooling blog and at various speaking engagements. But for some reason, I have not been able to find it here, on my blog! It must already be here somewhere, but I cannot locate it! So, because it has been requested by more of my readers, I'm reposting it here today.

Love,
Mama Rachel


I am not a "scheduler." In fact, I totally rebel against them-- even when I make them! I've continually looked to outside sources to "fix" me, including great programs like this. But I like to be spontaneous! I like to switch things around randomly. And I like to go with the flow of my children's interests, so I NEED more flexibility in my home.

One day, I decided to simply accept myself and my family as we are, and workwith my natural tendency to work on a relaxed, unstructured-- uh, structure. *grin*

Something I learned from the "Managers of their Homes" program, was to split up the hours of the day into three separate charts. So I sat down and made a list of the things that we need to do during each part of the day, and then I made a chart for each. This way, we have a goal for what needs to get done, but we are not restricted by my inaccurate time estimates.

Morning is from rising to 11-ish, Midday is from around 11am to 5pm, andEvening is from 5pm to bedtime.

See the chart below to see what we work to accomplish in the Morning.:





And here's what we work on through Midday.:





Here's how our Evenings work. (Please note that each of the activities listed under "Inspiration Time" are not done EVERY night. They simply include the things that happen through the week.):




I am a believer that scheduling IS important. but I am also finding that if I want to truly succeed, I need to work with my personality, and make sure that our schedule is working with our family rhythms, and not against them.

I wish you happiness in creating a plan that fits YOUR family's needs!

Love, Mama Rachel