Pick a HomeSchool Theme: Shake Up Your Monthly Routine!


When it comes to homeschooling, the possibilities are endless. From choosing a curriculum to planning lessons, homeschooling parents can customize their children’s education in a way that works best for their families. One way to add an extra layer of creativity and excitement to your homeschooling journey is by incorporating a homeschool theme. A homeschool theme is a central topic or idea that ties together multiple subjects, activities, and projects. Not only can a homeschool theme make learning more engaging and meaningful, but it can also help students develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. In this article, we’ll dive into the basics of homeschool themes, explore some popular options, and offer tips on incorporating them into your homeschooling routine.

Rebbecca Devitt

I hope you enjoy reading this blog post. If you want to do my course on how to homeschool, click here.

I first became excited about homeschooling themes when I read about Main lesson themes in Waldorf education.

Children focus on a particular theme or aspect of the curriculum for a certain period.

They also might return to the theme in later areas and revisit the more complicated concepts of the same theme when they’re older.

Of course, we don’t have to strictly incorporate it into every subject the way Waldorf schools sometimes do. Still, the purpose of this article is to get us thinking about adding themes to our basic curriculum to add interest.

Learn Everything about Homeschool Themes 101 here.What is a Homeschool Theme?

A homeschool theme is a broad topic or subject that you focus on for a period of time in your homeschooling curriculum.

It can be a particular:

  • historical era,
  • a scientific concept,
  • a cultural study, or
  • any other area of interest.

The theme provides a framework for planning lessons and activities across multiple subjects, helping to create a cohesive and integrated learning experience for your children.

What is the Main Lesson (Themes in Waldorf Education)?

In Waldorf education, the Main Lesson refers to a unique approach of studying a particular theme or subject for 3-4 weeks, with the aim of deepening and enriching the learning experience.

This approach involves integrating various artistic and academic activities related to the central theme, which is linked to the student’s stage of development and builds upon their prior knowledge and skills.

Many Waldorf schools also incorporate bookwork related to the Main Lesson theme into their morning routines.

How Long Should the Theme Exist?

A monthly homeschooling theme is a good idea as it allows students to cover the theme in different subjects.

If you run the theme for too:

  • short a time period, you may not get to cover the whole concept in detail.
  • long a time period, you run the risk of the children getting bored with the theme (and you might run out of ideas!).

That’s why 3-4 weeks is ideal when thinking about a homeschool theme.

Pick a homeschooling theme: Shake up your boring monthly routine!

How to Pick a Homeschooling Theme (and Theme Ideas)

but how do you decide what homeschool theme to pick? Do you just take a chance and choose one?

You can absolutely do that, but you may want to consider the following steps to help you decide on a theme:

  1. Consider your child’s interests: Think about what your child enjoys doing and what their passions are. This will help you choose a theme that they are excited about and will be more engaged in.
  2. Think about your teaching style: Different homeschool themes require different teaching styles, so it’s important to consider what teaching methods work best for you and your child.
  3. Research different themes: Look into different homeschool themes and see which ones resonate with you and your child the most. You can also ask other homeschooling families for their recommendations.
  4. Consider your curriculum: If you have already chosen a curriculum, think about which theme will work best with it.
  5. Take into account your child’s age: When you pick a homeschooling theme, you need to consider your children’s age. Some themes will be too complicated for little five-year-old minds due to their development level, while others might be too simple for older homeschoolers.
  6. Work with current events: If something significant has happened in your community, state, country or in the world, consider making a theme associated with it. This will help anchor it in your child’s memory more and make them more interested in the homeschool theme you’ve chosen.
  7. Consider your family: Is there something significant happening in your wider family? Is an auntie having a baby? Is an uncle gathering the crops? Try to pick a related theme.

By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose a homeschool theme that works best for you and your child.

10 Homeschool Theme Ideas

We’ve already got a few ideas for picking a homeschooling theme and how a theme might work.

But here are some concrete themes and how you might use them.

Ancient Civilizations

Exploring ancient civilizations can include studying their art, architecture, religions, and customs.

For example, students could research and compare the pyramids of Egypt, the Parthenon in Greece, and the Colosseum in Rome. They could also examine the mythology and literature of each civilization, and compare the different ways each culture expressed themselves through their art and literature.

Space

Learning about space can include studying astronomy, physics, and the history of space exploration.

For hands-on activities, students could create a model of the solar system, observe the stars and planets with a telescope or binoculars, or participate in a simulated space mission.

Oceans

Studying the oceans can include learning about marine biology, ocean currents, and the effects of pollution and climate change on marine life.

Students could also participate in beach clean-ups, visit aquariums or marine research centers, or create a marine ecosystem in a classroom aquarium.

Seasons

Exploring the seasons can include learning about the weather patterns and changes that occur throughout the year.

Students could also examine the cultural and historical significance of holidays associated with each season, such as Christmas or Easter.

Literature

Studying literature can include analyzing different genres, such as poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.

Students could also examine the works of famous authors and poets, such as Charles Dickens, C.S Lewis, and Tolkein.

World Cultures

Learning about different cultures can include studying their history, art, music, and traditions.

Students could also examine the ways different cultures express themselves through art, music, and dance, and explore the ways cultural traditions have influenced contemporary society.

Nature

Studying nature can include observing and documenting the plants and animals in the local environment, exploring the geological formations and landmarks in the area, and learning about conservation efforts to protect the natural world.

STEM

Focusing on STEM can include exploring scientific concepts, conducting experiments, and participating in engineering challenges.

Students could also learn about cutting-edge technology, such as robotics or artificial intelligence, and explore the ways these technologies are changing our world.

Art

Exploring art can include learning about different art forms, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography.

Students could also examine the works of famous artists and art movements throughout history, and explore the ways art reflects and influences society.

Health and Wellness Homeschool Theme

Studying health and wellness can include learning about healthy eating, exercise, stress management, and mindfulness.

Students could also participate in physical activities, such as yoga or meditation, and explore different techniques for maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

American History theme

Study the history of the United States, including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War II, and major events and figures throughout American history.

Examples of implementation could include reading primary source documents, visiting historical sites and museums, watching documentaries and historical films, and engaging in debates or discussions about key events or figures.

Homeschool Themes by Month

You could also heighten a child’s interest in a theme by grouping them according to month. Here are some themes linked to certain months.

January:

  1. Winter: Focus on winter weather, snow, and winter sports.
  2. New Year: Explore New Year’s traditions and resolutions.
  3. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Learn about civil rights and social justice.

February:

  1. Valentine’s Day: Study the history and traditions of Valentine’s Day, and explore love and relationships.
  2. Presidents’ Day: Learn about U.S. presidents and the history of the presidency.
  3. Friendship and kindness: Learn about how friendship and kindness are Christlike characteristics.

March:

  1. Springtime nature studies: Focus on the changing of the seasons, the weather, and nature.
  2. St. Patrick’s Day: Study the history and traditions of St. Patrick’s Day, and explore Irish culture and history.

April:

  1. Earth Day: Learn about conservation, recycling, and environmentalism.
  2. National Poetry Month: Explore different types of poetry and famous poets.
  3. Spring Holidays: Explore the history and traditions of Easter, Passover, and other spring holidays.

May:

  1. Mother’s Day: Explore the role of mothers and maternal figures in society and history.
  2. Memorial Day: Learn about the history and significance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices of those who served in the military.
  3. Flowers and Gardens: Focus on gardening, plant life, and the natural world.

June:

  1. Father’s Day: Explore the role of fathers and paternal figures in society and history.
  2. Juneteenth: Learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the United States.
  3. Summer: Focus on summer activities, weather, and outdoor exploration.

July:

  1. Independence Day: Learn about the history and significance of the Fourth of July and American Independence.
  2. Summer Olympics: Explore the history and traditions of the Olympics and learn about different sports and athletes.
  3. Beaches and Oceans: Focus on marine life, ocean conservation, and beach activities.

August:

  1. Back to School: Prepare for the upcoming school year, study different education systems, and explore learning strategies.
  2. National Parks: Learn about the history and significance of national parks and explore different parks around the country.
  3. Astronomy: Study the stars, planets, and space exploration.

September:

  1. Labor Day: Learn about the history and significance of Labor Day and explore labor movements and workers’ rights.
  2. Constitution Day: Study the history and significance of the United States Constitution.
  3. Fall: Focus on the changing of the seasons, the weather, and nature.

October:

  1. Fire Safety: Learn about fire prevention and safety.
  2. Breast Cancer Awareness Month
  3. World Food Day: Learn about food shortages and charity organizations

November:

  1. Thanksgiving: Learn about the history and traditions of Thanksgiving and explore gratitude and giving thanks.
  2. Native American Heritage Month: Explore the history and contributions of Native Americans to culture and society.
  3. Fall Harvest: Focus on agriculture, food, and sustainability.

December:

  1. Winter Holidays: Explore the history and traditions of different winter holidays, such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa.
  2. Winter Solstice: Learn about the science and traditions of the winter solstice.
  3. Winter Activities: Focus on winter sports, activities, and weather.

Christian Homeschool Themes

And then you can of course explore some Christian themes that encourage great character in children.

  1. Love: Emphasizing God’s love for us and how we can show love to others.
  2. Forgiveness: Understanding the importance of forgiveness in Christian faith and learning how to forgive others.
  3. Faith: Exploring the meaning and importance of faith in the Christian religion.
  4. Service: Encouraging children to serve others as a way of living out their faith.
  5. Gratitude: Emphasizing the importance of being thankful for God’s blessings and showing gratitude to others.
  6. Compassion: Encouraging children to have empathy and compassion for others, especially those in need.
  7. Creation: Learning about God’s creation and our responsibility to care for the environment.
  8. Prayer: Developing a habit of prayer and understanding the role of prayer in Christian faith.
  9. Salvation: Understanding the concept of salvation and what it means for Christians.
  10. Redemption: Learning about God’s plan for redeeming humanity and how we can be a part of it.

These themes can be explored through various subjects such as Bible study, literature, art, and history.

Learn Everything about Homeschool Themes 101 here.

Homeschool Theme Conclusion

Picking a theme can enrich your homeschool and bring it from boring to fascinating. The choices about what theme you choose are endless, giving your family a great opportunity to look at subjects more closely. The wonderful thing about studying themes at home is that you aren’t limited by time. You can study the theme for the whole day if it’s interesting to the children; conversely, if it’s a magnificent flop, you can dump it. I hope you found this article helpful. Let me know if it’s something you think would work in your homeschool.

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Rebecca Devitt

Most adults don't particularly want to relive their schooling experience on a daily basis. They would gladly move on to a new life devoid of homework and teachers. Very, very few adults will passionately blog about their schooling some 15 years after graduating. This makes Rebecca Devitt somewhat unique. As it happens, she was homeschooled. And she loved it. Still does. And she wishes every kid could get a taste of homeschooling at its very best. Her website How Do I Homeschool, is a springboard for parents to see what a life of homeschooling could be for both them & their children. When she's not blogging Rebecca is still homeschooling her-adult-self by learning Latin, growing weird vegetables and most importantly looking after her two children Luke & Penny. She has a husband Tristan and is a participant at Wollongong Baptist Church. She's also written a book about why parents should homeschool called 'Why on Earth Homeschool'.

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