Homeschooling toddlers is such a beautiful, chaotic, and rewarding season. If you’re like me—trying to juggle homesteading, homemaking, and maybe even a bit of travel—you’ve probably found yourself wondering how to keep your little one learning without losing your mind in the process.

After some trial and error (and grace upon grace), I’ve discovered a few simple routines that help bring rhythm to our days and joy to our learning. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or just need a refresh, here are five routines that have worked beautifully for our family.

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1. Start the Day with “Together Time”

Before the breakfast rush, we gather for a few moments of connection. For us, that looks like cuddling on the couch with a Bible story, a song, or a short picture book. It sets a peaceful tone for the day and gives toddlers the security of knowing that mama’s attention is theirs first thing.

Tip: Keep a small basket nearby with favorite books, flashcards, or simple puzzles to make this time special.

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2. Use Themes to Keep Learning Fun (and Simple)

Each week, we focus on a gentle theme—like “Farms,” “Insects,” “Weather,” or “Colors.” It makes planning easy and gives our learning a fun, cohesive feel. I’ll pull a few books, sensory play ideas, and outdoor activities that go along with the theme. That way, even our nature walks or garden time tie into what we’re “learning.”

Sample week:
Theme: Birds

• Book: Are You My Mother?
• Craft: Pinecone bird feeder
• Nature walk: Spot birds and listen to their songs
• Sensory play: Feathers + bird figurines + kinetic sand

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3. Anchor Learning Around Mealtimes

Trying to carve out big blocks of time with a toddler? Nearly impossible. Instead, I tuck in little learning moments around meals. We sing the ABCs while breakfast is cooking, count snacks together, or practice colors while setting the table.

This “snack-sized” learning approach keeps things playful and pressure-free.

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4. Follow Their Curiosity

Toddlers are naturally curious, so I try not to force a rigid curriculum. If my son wants to spend an hour digging in the garden? That’s science. If my daughter lines up her stuffed animals and pretends to teach them? That’s dramatic play and communication.

I often ask myself:
✨ What is she showing interest in today?
✨ How can I lean into that instead of redirecting it?

The most meaningful learning happens when it’s child-led.

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5. Create a Restful Rhythm for Both of You

Homeschooling with toddlers doesn’t have to mean busy schedules and Pinterest-perfect activities every hour. Some of our most peaceful days follow a simple rhythm:

• Morning: Outdoor play or nature walk
• Midday: Snack + storytime + quiet learning activity
• Afternoon: Nap/quiet time (mama break!)
• Late afternoon: Free play, garden help, or a creative craft
• Evening: Family time + early bedtime

Having a loose rhythm gives structure without rigidity. It lets me breathe—and helps the kids know what to expect.

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A Final Word from the Homestead

Mama, you’re doing holy work. Whether your toddler learns to count while feeding goats or sings their ABCs on a hike, know that this is learning. These early years are more about connection than content.

So take a deep breath. Let the dishes wait. Grab a book, snuggle your littles, and lean into the slow joy of homegrown learning.

You’ve got this. ❤️