One of the biggest challenges for new families is knowing where to begin. The Classical Liberal Arts Academy can feel large and unfamiliar, and it’s easy to worry about “doing it wrong.” The good news is that you don’t need to have everything figured out from the start. This article will guide you through the first steps of beginning your family’s studies with confidence.
Start Simple, Not Overwhelmed
Many parents make the mistake of trying to enroll their children in too many courses at once. Because CLAA restores the full Catholic curriculum, it can feel like there’s so much to catch up on. The truth is, education is a lifelong journey, and the best way to begin is slow and steady.
For most families, we recommend beginning with:
Sacred Scripture – daily reading introduces children to the Word of God.
Latin Grammar – the foundation of all language studies.
Arithmetic – the starting point of the mathematical arts.
These three areas give children a balanced entry into the program: faith, language, and number.
Establish a Daily Study Routine
It is not enough to have courses chosen—you must also establish a daily rhythm of study. A routine builds stability and peace in your home.
A simple first-week routine might look like this:
Morning prayer with the family.
20–30 minutes of Scripture reading.
30–45 minutes of Latin study.
30–45 minutes of Arithmetic practice.
If your children are younger, shorten the sessions. If they are older, lengthen them gradually. The key is establishing consistency and increasing studies incrementally over time.
Use the Resources Provided
The CLAA curriculum is designed to be self-sustaining. Parents sometimes feel they need to invent lessons or prepare extra materials, but this is not necessary.
Courses are written to the student. Your role is to oversee, not replace, the instruction.
Assignments and assessments are included. Trust the structure.
Guidance is available. If you or your child become stuck, you can ask for help.
The more you rely on the curriculum itself, the freer you will be as a parent to guide rather than micromanage.
Don’t Worry About Perfection
The first weeks will not be perfect, and that’s normal. You may adjust schedules, swap times of day, or adapt your expectations as your children adjust. What matters most is that you are moving forward, even if slowly.
Remember: CLAA studies are not measured in weeks and months, but in years of steady progress. Think of your children’s education as a marathon, not a sprint.
Looking Ahead
Once you’ve chosen your first courses and established a routine, the next step is understanding your role as a Catholic parent in the learning process. Many new families worry that they must become teachers in every subject. In our next article, we will clarify your responsibilities so that you can lead your children with confidence and peace.
God bless,
Mr. William C. Michael, O.P.
Headmaster
Classical Liberal Arts Academy
