How To Track Homeschool Attendance Hours
Many homeschool families keep a record of the days they teach and the hours they spend learning. Even if you do not have to, it is nice to see all you have done. The key is to make tracking fast. Here is how to track attendance and hours without it becoming another chore.
Step 1: Learn what your area asks for
Rules about attendance and hours vary by place. Check with your local homeschool group or education office to see what records you need. Keep a note of the requirements at the front of your records.
Step 2: Decide what counts
Make a simple list of activities you will count as learning time: lessons, reading, projects, field trips, educational games and practice. Having a list keeps your numbers steady from day to day.
Step 3: Pick a daily tracking time
Choose a moment each day to mark attendance, like right after lunch or at the end of the school day. It should take a minute. A fixed time keeps you from falling behind.
Step 4: Record the day
Write the date, mark present and add the hours. If you want more detail, add a line about what you covered. Short notes are enough.
Step 5: Add up each month
At the end of each month, total the days and hours. Write the totals at the bottom of the page. Monthly totals keep the numbers manageable and let you see if you are on track for the year.
Step 6: Track each child
If you have more than one child, keep a separate page for each. Kids may study different amounts, and separate pages keep the numbers clear.
Step 7: Keep a backup
Store your pages in a binder, and take photos of them now and then. If something gets lost, you will have a copy.
Step 8: Review every few months
Look at your totals and compare them to your goal. If you are behind, add a short extra session each week. If you are ahead, enjoy the cushion.
A sample month
- Week one: Mark each day and note the hours.
- Week two: Add field trip hours.
- Week three: Check progress against your goal.
- Week four: Total the month and start a new page.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until the end of the year. Daily entries are easier.
- Counting inconsistently. Use the same rules every day.
- Forgetting the small stuff. Reading and projects count.
- Losing the pages. Keep them in one place.
Use a ready-made tracker
The Attendance and Hours Tracker has twelve monthly attendance pages for your days and hours, so you can keep your records in order all year.
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