'Done By Lunch' means finishing formal lessons by noon or 1 PM in homeschooling. This method focuses on efficiency, allowing more time for play and exploration in the afternoons.
Most homeschool families report completing core academic subjects in 3-4 hours per day for elementary students, compared to the 6-7 hours typical of traditional schools, due to the one-on-one instruction and absence of classroom management overhead (NHERI, 2024).
What does 'done by lunch' mean?
'Done By Lunch' is a popular term in homeschooling. It means wrapping up lessons before lunch, usually by noon or 1 PM. This idea comes from Charlotte Mason's teaching philosophy. She believed mornings should be for structured learning, leaving afternoons for free play and enrichment. Today, many homeschoolers use this method because one-on-one teaching is much quicker than traditional classroom settings. With your full attention, a few focused hours can replace a whole day in school.
Why this schedule works
In regular classrooms, much time goes to transitions, managing the class, and waiting for everyone to catch up. At home, with just one or a few kids, you cut out that extra time. If a child understands a math concept, they can move on right away. Studies show that homeschoolers often learn just as much in less time. That's why many families find they can finish academics by lunch without losing quality. It's about cutting waste, not corners.
Making it work practically
Families who finish by lunch usually start their school day around 8 AM. They focus on teaching without distractions. Many begin with 'Morning Time' for subjects like literature, history, or nature study before diving into individual work. Staying fully present during school hours is key—no checking emails or doing laundry until lessons are done. Some families prepare lunch in a slow cooker beforehand, so it’s ready when they finish. Planning meals on weekends or cooking in bulk helps avoid the lunch rush.
When this schedule might not fit
Not every family finds early mornings work well. For night owls, starting school later and finishing by dinner might be better. Kids with learning differences may need more breaks or a slower pace. High schoolers with tough courses often study past lunch too. If you have kids in different grades, sticking to a tight schedule can be tricky. 'Done By Lunch' is more of a goal than a strict rule. Many successful homeschool families take all day, and that’s perfectly okay.
The bottom line
'Done By Lunch' shows one of the best parts of homeschooling—efficiency. Without the time spent managing a classroom, you can teach more in less time. Afternoons free up for exploration, play, and learning that often gets missed in traditional schools. Whether you choose this schedule depends on your family’s rhythm, your kids' needs, and your teaching style. It's a helpful tool, not an obligation.
