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Organize and Optimize: 15+ Clever Ways to Use a Homeschool Cart

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A homeschool cart is a fantastic tool to boost and organize your learning space and life.

You can customize your rolling cart to fit your style and needs. And you'll love the flexibility, easy accessibility, and extra storage you get with your homeschool rolling cart.

Plus, homeschool carts are smart ways to make the most of your small homeschool space, too.

Discover all the ways you can use carts in your homeschool AND grab the FREE Homeschool Cart Organization Checklist!

Discover how to enjoy the benefits of using a homeschool cart with these 15+ ideas and tips, as well as free printable checklist.

Think Outside the Box (& Shelves) for Homeschool Organization

Hey there, mama! It's time to think of homeschool organization in a whole new way.

If you're looking for ways to organize your homeschool supplies, think outside the box – and maybe even repurpose that storage bin or basket that's overflowing with books and such.

A great way to stay organized is by using a rolling cart in place of traditional shelves. This simple change can save you money while making a big difference in how organized and efficient your school day looks and feels.

3 rolling carts with homeschool supplies to feature how you can use these 15+ ideas and tips plus free organization checklist to optimize your homeschool life

When I started seeing some of the amazing ways that rolling carts were being used for homeschooling, my brain went into overdrive. So many cool options for using carts popped into my head for optimizing homeschool life!

But, maybe I'm getting ahead of myself...

A homeschool cart is a metal rolling cart with two or three shelves that parents use to organize the books and supplies needed throughout the homeschool days.

These carts often sold for crafty people to store their supplies. (In fact, I've bought a few of my rolling carts at Michaels when shopping for art supplies and couldn't pass up the great deal!)

Many families are now using carts, especially if homeschooling in a small space.

Smarts Reasons for Using a Homeschool Rolling Cart

Wondering if a rolling cart is right for your homeschool and family life?

Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider adding one or two:

  • Small living quarters
  • You don't have a designated homeschool space
  • Limited space for your homeschooling
  • Can't afford (or fit) a shelving unit or other storage option into your homeschool area
  • You use different areas of your home for different subjects (example: language arts and history happen at the dining room table, math and science occur in the kitchen)
  • You're homeschool multiple kids (and need separate places to store their materials)
  • You have certain subjects that you don't do everyday (perhaps you use a morning time loop or enjoy art only on Fridays)

Think of any situation in your homeschool day (or week) that you need flexibility and movement.

A homeschool cart is fantastic because it can be rolled around and stored away when not in use. It’s that simple!

3 rolling carts with homeschool supplies to feature how you can use these 15+ tips and ideas plus free printables to enjoy the benefits of these simple yet powerful tools for homeschooling

Fantastic Way to Keep Your Homeschool Organized

Staying organized when you homeschool (especially in small spaces) can feel challenging. With an honest look at your homeschool situation and a bit of creativity, a homeschool cart can make such a difference.

⭐️ And our FREE Homeschool Cart Checklist can make it even easier! Get your printable at the end of this post.

Rolling carts have given our homeschool such a powerful boost.

Yes, I said "carts". I have three just for homeschooling-and considering adding more! One cart is for morning time, another is for enrichment (a.k.a. smart cart), and the third is for art supplies

Over the years, my boys and I have used our rolling carts in different ways. We've had science carts, snack carts, brain breaks carts, Lego carts, and more. Our homeschool cart themes have evolved depending on interests, ages, and goals for our year.

Here are my favorite rolling carts (and ones that I have on my homeschool wishlist):

CAXXA 3-Tier Rolling Metal Storage Organizer - Mobile Utility Cart, Kitchen Cart with Caster Wheels (Aqua Green)CAXXA 3-Tier Rolling Metal Storage Organizer - Mobile Utility Cart, Kitchen Cart with Caster Wheels (Aqua Green)SimpleHouseware Heavy Duty 3-Tier Metal Utility Rolling Cart, WhiteSimpleHouseware Heavy Duty 3-Tier Metal Utility Rolling Cart, White3 Tier Utility Rolling Cart - Organizer Cart Storage Cart Kitchen Cart Makeup Cart 3 Shelf Baby Tray Cart with Hanging Cups Trolley Handles and Wheels Use for Bathroom Kids Room Bedroom Office (Black)3 Tier Utility Rolling Cart - Organizer Cart Storage Cart Kitchen Cart Makeup Cart 3 Shelf Baby Tray Cart with Hanging Cups Trolley Handles and Wheels Use for Bathroom Kids Room Bedroom Office (Black)3 Tier Rolling Cart with Table Top, Rolling Storage Cart with Handles and Locking Wheels, Utility Cart with 2 Small Baskets and 4 Hooks for Bathroom. Office, Balcony, Living Room (Grey)3 Tier Rolling Cart with Table Top, Rolling Storage Cart with Handles and Locking Wheels, Utility Cart with 2 Small Baskets and 4 Hooks for Bathroom. Office, Balcony, Living Room (Grey)TOOLF 3-Tier Rolling cart, Utility Storage Cart with DIY Dual Pegboards, Art Craft Trolley with Removable Baskets Hooks, Organizer Serving Cart Easy Assemble for Office, Home, Kitchen,Classroom,GreenTOOLF 3-Tier Rolling cart, Utility Storage Cart with DIY Dual Pegboards, Art Craft Trolley with Removable Baskets Hooks, Organizer Serving Cart Easy Assemble for Office, Home, Kitchen,Classroom,Green

 

Awesome Accessories (& DIY Ideas) for Your Homeschool Cart

You can take your homeschool cart organization to the next level with a few fun and affordable accessories. In fact, some of these accessories can be DIY to help you save money as you upcycle.

When you get a homeschool rolling cart, grab some organization items that fit into it.

Tip: Measure the shelves on the cart AND clearance space (how much room between shelves).

You can find things like soft baskets, plastic caddies, organizing bins, and pencil cases at a dollar store. Magnetic cups, hooks, and clips are also perfect for metal rolling carts!

Another fun idea is to upcycle and make your own homeschool cart storage items.

Clean and decorate an old coffee can or mason jar. Use to store pencils, pens, markers, color pencils, and other school supplies.

Cut the top off of an empty tissue box. Use to store rubber bands, stickers, stamps, Kwik Stix, crayons, and other supplies.

Oh, and you can use empty toilet paper rolls inside those boxes or cans to further organize!

Eagrye 6-Pack 10.4-Inch x 7.6-Inch x 4.05-Inch Plastic Storage Basket, Woven Basket BinEagrye 6-Pack 10.4-Inch x 7.6-Inch x 4.05-Inch Plastic Storage Basket, Woven Basket BinDANRONG Colored Plastic Pencil Box, Large Capacity Pencil Case, Pencil Boxs for Kids Adults, Hard Crayon Box Storage with Snap-Tight Lid for School Office Supplies (Blue)DANRONG Colored Plastic Pencil Box, Large Capacity Pencil Case, Pencil Boxs for Kids Adults, Hard Crayon Box Storage with Snap-Tight Lid for School Office Supplies (Blue)BINO | Plastic Storage Bins, Large - 2 Pack | The SOHO Collection | Multi-Use Organizer Bins | Built-in Handle | BPA-Free | Pantry Organization | Home Organization | Fridge Organizer | Freezer OrgBINO | Plastic Storage Bins, Large - 2 Pack | The SOHO Collection | Multi-Use Organizer Bins | Built-in Handle | BPA-Free | Pantry Organization | Home Organization | Fridge Organizer | Freezer OrgmDesign Storage Bins with Built-in Handles for Organizing Hand Soaps, Body Wash, Shampoos, Lotion, Conditioners, Hand Towels, Hair Accessories, Body Spray, Mouthwash - 16mDesign Storage Bins with Built-in Handles for Organizing Hand Soaps, Body Wash, Shampoos, Lotion, Conditioners, Hand Towels, Hair Accessories, Body Spray, Mouthwash - 16Puroma 18-pcs Desk Drawer Organizer Trays, 4 Different Sizes Large Capacity Plastic Bins Kitchen Drawer Organizers Bathroom Drawer Dividers for Makeup, Kitchen Utensils, Jewelries and GadgetsPuroma 18-pcs Desk Drawer Organizer Trays, 4 Different Sizes Large Capacity Plastic Bins Kitchen Drawer Organizers Bathroom Drawer Dividers for Makeup, Kitchen Utensils, Jewelries and GadgetsmDesign Plastic Stackable Box for Home, Office Supplies Storage Organizer with Attached Hinged Lid - Holder Container Bin for Note Pads, Gel Pens, Staples, Dry Erase Markers, 5mDesign Plastic Stackable Box for Home, Office Supplies Storage Organizer with Attached Hinged Lid - Holder Container Bin for Note Pads, Gel Pens, Staples, Dry Erase Markers, 5

 

Mesh Magnetic Storage Baskets - Set of 3 (Black) with Anti-Slip Feature and Strong Magnets - Magnetic Locker Organizer and Pencil Holder for Whiteboard and Refrigerator (Rectangular)Mesh Magnetic Storage Baskets - Set of 3 (Black) with Anti-Slip Feature and Strong Magnets - Magnetic Locker Organizer and Pencil Holder for Whiteboard and Refrigerator (Rectangular)Learning Resources Create-a-Space Magnetic Storage Boxes, Homeschool Accessories, Bright Colors, Craft Organizer, Homeschool Organizer, Classroom Organizer, Crafts, 4 Pack with Write & Wipe LabelsLearning Resources Create-a-Space Magnetic Storage Boxes, Homeschool Accessories, Bright Colors, Craft Organizer, Homeschool Organizer, Classroom Organizer, Crafts, 4 Pack with Write & Wipe LabelsHarmiey Magnetic Hooks 100LB Cruise Refrigerator Heavy Duty Neodymium Rare Earth Magnetic Hangers,Rubber Scratch-Resistant Base,Ideal for Indoor/Outdoor Hanging(Black 4Pack)Harmiey Magnetic Hooks 100LB Cruise Refrigerator Heavy Duty Neodymium Rare Earth Magnetic Hangers,Rubber Scratch-Resistant Base,Ideal for Indoor/Outdoor Hanging(Black 4Pack)Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks Heavy Duty,100 lb Strong Magnet with Hook for Fridge, Super Neodymium Extra Strength Industrial Hooks for Hanging, Magnetic Hanger for Toolbox, Cruise, Grill, Coat and StorageNeosmuk Magnetic Hooks Heavy Duty,100 lb Strong Magnet with Hook for Fridge, Super Neodymium Extra Strength Industrial Hooks for Hanging, Magnetic Hanger for Toolbox, Cruise, Grill, Coat and StorageMi Metty Magnetic Clips, 4 Pack Metal Clips, Refrigerator Whiteboard Wall Magnetic Memo Note Clip,Colored Magnetic Metal Clips for Clipping Photos,Pictures.Set of 4 in 4 Pack (Multicolor)Mi Metty Magnetic Clips, 4 Pack Metal Clips, Refrigerator Whiteboard Wall Magnetic Memo Note Clip,Colored Magnetic Metal Clips for Clipping Photos,Pictures.Set of 4 in 4 Pack (Multicolor)Strong Magnetic Clips –Heavy Duty Metal Refrigerator Fridge Bulldog Magnet Clips -Home Office Classroom Teachers -Whiteboard, Hanging Photos, Calendar, Chalkboard -Scratch Safe 12-Pack Large 31mm WideStrong Magnetic Clips –Heavy Duty Metal Refrigerator Fridge Bulldog Magnet Clips -Home Office Classroom Teachers -Whiteboard, Hanging Photos, Calendar, Chalkboard -Scratch Safe 12-Pack Large 31mm Wide

 

6 Ideas for Using a Homeschool Cart

The more I see other homeschoolers use rolling carts, the more ways I see using them. It makes me want to buy more carts 😊

In addition to the ways that my boys and I have used carts in our homeschool, here are a few of my favorite ideas:

  1. A Cart for Each Kid

If you have kids in different grades or stages, this approach can be extremely helpful.

I've found that keeping toddler and preschool materials separate from elementary through high school levels makes such a difference.

If your kids use different curriculums (like we do in our eclectic homeschool), try giving each child a homeschool cart for their materials.

Your children feel a sense of ownership and independence with their own cart. Also, it provides an opportunity to practice organization and storage skills.

Plus, your students may like a place to store their own fun homeschool supplies.

  1. Teacher Cart

My next rolling cart (on my homeschool wishlist!) will be a teacher cart.

I dream of having a mobile way to store my homeschool planner, teacher's guides, washi tape, stickers, and favorite pens.

Plus, as a mom of all boys, I really want one of those adorable pink carts 😉

  1. Everyday Essentials for Homeschooling

Otherwise known as practical homeschool supplies!

All homeschool families have everyday essentials that you know you need to have, no matter what you’re learning that day. A homeschool cart can keep all of those items in the best location with the easiest accessibility for your kids. 

Some essentials that you might keep in this cart include:

  • Pencils
  • Pens
  • Colored Pencils
  • Scissors
  • Glue and glue sticks
  • Paper 
  • Calculators 
  • Post-It Notes
  • Highlighters 
  • Paper Clips
  • Stapler
  • Rulers
  • Markers
  • Crayons
  • Paper (lined, construction, printer)
  • Composition notebook
  • Homeschool curriculum
  1. Art & Crafts Supplies Storage

If you want to encourage your kids to be creative and use their imaginations, I highly recommend having an art cart!

A homeschool cart for art and crafts supplies keeps all of their needed materials in one place.

Try to group by the type of materials, with things like crayons and color pencils on top, paper and mixed media pads in the middle, and other supplies on the bottom. 

We have this incredible cart for this purpose. It comes with additional baskets, hooks, and bars.

  1. Make a Tech Cart

I saw this idea on Instagram and I love it.

I didn’t include too much tech in our homeschool days when my kids were younger, but now that my boys are older, online resources are slowly becoming part of our daily lives.

Why not make a cart for the tech?

Grab some file sorters and use them in the cart to hold iPads or Chromebooks for each of your kids, along with chargers. Headphones and earbuds can be stored here, too.

If you have younger kids, add-ons for iPads like the Osmo could go in this cart as well! 

  1. Use a Cart By Subject or Unit Study

Another idea that you might like is using a homeschool cart for each subject.

This idea could work well for subjects that involve a lot of extra resources like math or science.

If you enjoy using unit studies in your homeschool, consider having a special cart to store all the book, supplies, and other resources. Great way to keep it all in one place and easy to access!

What to Keep in Your Homeschool Cart 

Are you wondering what you could keep in your homeschool cart? Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Spiral Mixed Media Sketchbooks 

We used mixed media sketchbooks for many things like nature journaling, science notebooking, and history notebooking.

Mixed media paper works well because your kids can use it for markers, watercolor paints, and whatever else they feel inspired to use

  1. World and State Atlas

Have an atlas or two available for your children when you discuss geography or history. It makes it much easier for your kids to envision where things are in the world if they see it on a map.

Two of our favorites: National Geographic Kids World Atlas and National Geographic Kids U.S. Atlas

  1. Nature Books 

If you spend a lot of time studying nature and nature journaling (or would like to), you'll need plenty of good reference books. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Poetry Books

Poetry is often woven into our day. During morning time, brain break, or just because, my boys and I will often read poetry together.

Oh, and that gives me another idea: a poetry teatime cart!

A few of our favorite poetry books are:

  1. Dry Erase Lined Boards 

Sometimes, my boys like to write on dry erase boards instead of notebooks. They prefer the boards with one side that is lined, and the other side is empty.

Make sure to include some dry erase markers too! 

  1. Flash Cards or Trivia Cards

If your kids are memorizing math facts or learning a foreign language, flash cards can be super helpful.

We also store trivia cards on all sorts of subjects in our enrichment homeschool cart.

  1. Movable Alphabet 

If you have younger children, make sure you have a set of movable letters. You’ll use these hands-on learning manipulatives so much as your kids learn how to read and spell.

8. Fun Learning Manipulatives

MathLink cubes and dice are cool additions to your learning fun. Small toys are also great ways to keep hands busy during read alouds.

Pom poms, pipe cleaners, wood beads, and pony beads are other supplies your kids can use for learning purposes.

3 rolling carts with a variety of homeschool supplies like books, arts supplies, pencils, paint, and more to feature how you can use these 15+ clever ideas and tips plus free printable checklist to get started with using homeschool carts to organize and optimize

Get Your Free Homeschool Cart Organization List

Want to get started with a homeschool cart but not sure what you'll need?

Or maybe you need a way to get it set up and keep it organized?

No worries! This FREE Homeschool Cart Organization List and Tips will help you do that 🙂

This FREE list includes 2 pages:

  • 5 Steps to Success with Your Homeschool Cart(s)
  • Homeschool Cart Organization Checklist & Tips

Print as many copies of this homeschool cart list as you'll need to get and stay organized.

Got a friend who'd love using this list? Cool! Please share this post with them. Thanks so much for your cooperation and sharing.

To get this free Homeschool Cart Organization List, simply subscribe to Rock Your Homeschool.

⭐️ You’ll receive an email with a PDF file plus a password to open the VIP Resource Library to all RYHS freebies. Email Amy at rockyourhomeschool@gmail.com if you have any problems!

Oh, and you’ll also get emails with ideas, resources, and encouragement to make life and learning fun 🙂

(Psst! Current RYHS members just need to go to the VIP Resource Library and enter the password in your welcome email.)

Get your FREE Homeschool Cart Organization List by tapping HERE or on the image below.

Grab this set of free homeschool cart organization checklist and tips to learn how to organize and optimize with this fantastic tool.

Take Your Learning at Home Experiences to the Next Level with a Homeschool Cart!

Trust me - you'll love having a cart or two in your homeschooling area. It will change your homeschool organization system for the better! 

Do you have any questions about using a homeschool cart? Or tips and ideas to share? Please let me know in the comments area below:)

Wishing you and your homeschool family a wonderful school year!

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One Comment

  1. I love using our rolling cart for school. So much easier to fine material and have it in the same room. We use different tables in the house, and this just rolls to where we are working that day/subject. My only drawback to the one I bought is that it is to small. You can't stand books up on end on the middle and bottom shelves and it's not deep enough for the larger binders. We do make it work, but not my ideal setup. My advice, get one, but spend the extra money and get the larger ones to begin with.
    *I have the same black one as in the article listed.

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