Learning Year Round: Autumn Homeschool Plans

This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

How do you homeschool in the autumn? In about half the world, the temperature is dropping, and homeschooling outdoors is becoming more difficult. The cooler weather might bring sneezing due to seasonal allergies or rainy days. On the plus side, leaves changing and animals preparing for the winter allow our children new things to study. 

Homeschool Plans Outdoors 

Leaves falling brings a new way to study trees. It might be easier to identify specific leaves and trees when you can easily hold the leaf in your hand. Your children can also collect leaves without having to pull any off the trees! 

Two of my favorite courses at SchoolhouseTeachers.com offer options for studying trees: 

• Let's Do Science Outside
• Let's Do Art Outside 

In Let's Do Science Outside, there is a Tree ID Activity and a Tree Tally Chart, which are perfect for early elementary-aged children. For even more ideas about how to use trees and leaves in your homeschool lessons, Let's Do Art Outside offers activities such as 'how to make a leaf owl," "playdough leaf prints," and more. 

If your children collect a lot of leaves, there are numerous craft possibilities. From creating a leaf-themed turkey to making a letter craft, the options are endless. As long as the leaves aren't too brittle, you can even use them for painting. 

Working as a Family 

The change in seasons offers a time for children to learn more about what it takes to care for their home and property. Have them work alongside you as you rake leaves, put away summer toys and tools, and prepare your home for the winter. They will learn valuable skills as well as enjoy the time spent with their parents. 

Autumn homeschool plans can also include harvesting the last of the garden's bounty and preparing the ground for the next season. Pick those last pumpkins or other crops and plan out recipes to use up the last of the harvest. Or learn about canning and preserving food as a family. There are so many lessons we can teach by working together as a family. 

Learning Year Round About Animals 

The autumn season also allows you to focus on different animals with your family. Depending upon where you live, you might be able to track the migration of birds or how mammals in your area prepare for the winter. Read about hibernation, migration, and more to study how animals adapt to the seasonal change. 

For your little ones, have fun creating a bear craft or an owl craft while you study those animals. Or add some simple toys to their collection for imaginary play. The ideas are only limited by how much time you want to spend on studying animals and following your children's interests. 

Reading Books 

Don't forget to include books in your autumn homeschool plans! We've shared a few favorites in past years, and we are always looking out for new ones. If you have any, please share in the comments.