Mid-Year Review: 3rd Grade Homeschool Update
As we reach the halfway mark of our homeschool year, I wanted to pause and reflect on what’s been working well, what we’re letting go of, and what’s new as we refine our rhythm. January flew by in the blink of an eye—I didn’t even get around to writing a monthly update—so this mid-year check-in feels especially timely.
Math: Loving Beast Academy
One of the biggest successes this year has been Beast Academy. The comic-style format keeps Mathilde engaged, while the challenges stretch her thinking in just the right way. Paired with structured practice from traditional workbooks, the balance feels just right. Math has become both engaging and effective—exactly what I was hoping for.
Language Arts: Stories, Poems, and Copywork with Heart
Reading and writing remain at the heart of our homeschool. We’ve been diving into living books, poetry, classic tales, and stories that spark curiosity and wonder. Alongside this, Mathilde has been writing her own little stories and poems, which has been such a joy to watch.
A new addition this year is a copywork book I created myself. Instead of a pre-made resource, I filled it with affirmations and love notes—words she copies each day while adding her own drawings. It blends handwriting, art, and emotional connection in a way that has quickly become one of our most cherished practices.
Science: Unit Studies + Beast Academy
Science has mostly unfolded through unit studies, which I love creating because they let us follow Mathilde’s curiosity. Recently we also started using Beast Academy’s new science curriculum as a supplement. It’s been a fantastic fit—challenging, structured, and still full of wonder. Together, these approaches keep science both exploratory and grounded in what a 3rd grader needs to know.
Language Learning: Adjusting Our Approach
French online classes didn’t work out this year. The group levels varied too much, and since I don’t know French myself, it was hard to support. For now, we’re using The Complete French Workbook for Kids by Jacy Corral, but I’m still searching for something more structured we can study together. Honestly, there may be a gap in the market for parent-and-me language classes!
In the meantime, we’ve shifted focus to Danish as a second language, which feels natural and allows me to be more hands-on. A sweet friend is sending workbooks from Denmark, and I can’t wait to share more of my first language with Mathilde.
Geography: A Shift in Focus
Geography wasn’t clicking with the approach we started, so we’re letting it go and looking for something fresh. My goal is for it to feel integrated and meaningful, not just another subject to check off.
Returning to My Waldorf Roots
This year has also rekindled my love for Waldorf-inspired learning. While it’s always been part of our rhythm, I find myself leaning into it even more—letting rhythm, beauty, storytelling, and hands-on experiences guide our days. It brings a gentle, soulful pace that makes learning feel both magical and nourishing.
Looking Ahead
As we step into the second half of the year, I’m excited to keep refining our rhythm. We’ll hold onto the practices that bring us joy—rich stories, creative writing, hands-on math, and meaningful daily connections—while letting go of what no longer serves us.
This homeschool journey is always evolving, and I love shaping it alongside my child. Here’s to a second half of the year filled with discovery, connection, and learning that feels truly alive.
💬 Have you made any mid-year homeschool changes? I’d love to hear how your journey is unfolding!
