The Secret to Simple Meal Planning (When You’re Home All Day with Kids)

Let’s be real—homeschooling means we live in our kitchens.
Between breakfast dishes, second breakfast, snacks, and dinner… it can feel like we just finished cleaning up when it’s time to do it all over again.

I used to dread the daily “what’s for dinner?” moment, but over time, I’ve figured out a few simple strategies that keep us fed without draining all my time or energy. Spoiler alert: it’s not about prepping 21 freezer meals or turning your Sunday into a full-blown cooking marathon.

It's about rhythms, not perfection. Grace, not gourmet.

Why Meal Planning Matters (Especially for Homeschooling Families)

When we’re home all day, food becomes part of the flow—not just something to deal with. A little planning ahead saves:

• Decision fatigue

• Overspending on last-minute takeout

• The 5pm “nothing-thawed” panic

It also gives me more mental space to focus on what really matters: my people.

My Go-To Meal Planning Rhythm

I don’t assign meals to specific days anymore (too much pressure). Instead, I plan by meal types or themes, which gives me flexibility and structure:

• Monday – Easy Comfort Food
  Think spaghetti, tacos, or sheet pan meals.

• Tuesday – Crockpot or One Pot
  Hands off, but hearty. I plan this for our busiest day.

• Wednesday – Chicken Night
  I rotate between baked, grilled, or shredded chicken meals.

• Thursday – Pantry/Freezer Meal
  Something simple I can throw together from what we already have.

• Friday – Pizza or Breakfast for Dinner
  It’s fun, easy, and the kids love it.

• Weekend – Leftovers, Grill, or Family Favorites
  We keep it relaxed and open.

Tips That Save Me Every Week

• Keep a running grocery list in the Notes app or on the fridge

• Repeat what works (no shame in Taco Tuesday every week)

• Always plan a fallback meal (hello, pasta + jar sauce)

• Prep just 1–2 things ahead like cooked rice or washed greens—it’s enough!

Real Food for Real Life

You don’t need a perfect plan or fancy printable.
You just need a rhythm that serves your family—and leaves you with a little breathing room too.

So if you’re in a season where the kids are wild, the house is loud, and dinner feels like one more mountain to climb… take a deep breath.
Plan simply. Cook with love.
And know that feeding your family is holy work, even when it’s chicken nuggets on paper plates.