September. Traditionally the month students start back to school. Naturally, if you are homeschooling, you may homeschool year-round or choose a different season to officially start the new year.

This time of year, though, always signals the beginning of school for my traditionally schooled brain. Even though I homeschooled my own kids, the month of September always puts me in mind of new clothes, backpacks and shoes. Freshly waxed floors, clean, empty lockers and organized classrooms. The calm before the storm so to speak. It also puts me in mind of a certain movie but I digress. (Bouquets of sharpened pencils, anyone?)

Now that I am a writer with Chicken Scratch Books this also feels like the perfect time to tell you about their work. Chicken Scratch Books produces middle-school novels as well as curriculum based on them. Each book supports traditional values such as integrity, empathy and resilience. I have read the books and highly recommend them to any homeschooling family. They publish a variety of genres including contemporary, historical, fantasy and mystery. Use coupon code CSBBacktoSchool24 to receive a 15% discount. Good through Nov. 15th, 2024.

Happy homeschooling!