In this post, I contemplate the value of homeschool curriculum in terms of dollars and cents. I also share some thoughts regarding the suitability of curriculum based on your teaching style and your child’s learning style. Resources are provided for gathering information, including my favorite book on homeschooling, and my go-to websites. These offer an abundance of curriculum descriptions, reviews, and purchasing options. These can help to tame the (seemingly) insurmountable task of finding the right curriculum. Along with prayer (and a shiny new dry erase board!), the right curriculum can get your school year started with gusto!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will earn a commission (at no extra cost for you!). Read my full disclosure here.
The Value of Homeschool Curriculum in Dollars and Cents
I still remember adding “curriculum” to my (oft-used) vocabulary. We were new to homeschooling. Until then, there had never been a reason for me to delve into curriculum. I began looking at options and boy-oh-boy, I was overwhelmed!
In my post titled Curriculum Considerations: What’s the Goal, I contemplate why the choice of curriculum is important. I would recommend reading that post as a first step. This will help you to consider the value of curriculum in terms of spiritual impact. Then you are ready to consider the value of curriculum in terms of dollars and cents.
A well-written curriculum is a worthy investment. A reputable program will have a “scope and sequence” that outlines the concepts it covers. The Saxon Math Scope and Sequence for kindergarten through fourth grade is comprehensive. The company also offers a helpful overview titled the Saxon Homeschool Math Scope and Sequence. These resources give evidence of the exhaustive research and effort required to produce an orderly and complete curriculum.
Personally, I have no desire to reinvent the wheel trying to piece something together. A hodge-podge of random math lessons will inevitably leave holes in a child’s education. Curriculum companies spend years honing their craft. Their expertise is worth the cost for our family. (If your budget is slim, be assured that good, used curriculum—because it is popular—is often readily available. Just be on the look-out!)
Because we are preparing our child for college, we are preparing him for college entrance exams (such as the ACT or SAT). So for us, a good curriculum will build on itself from year-to-year in a systematic way that teaches the concepts covered on these exams. I believe this is particularly important for subjects such as math. A student either knows a concept or doesn’t. I have spent more than a decade teaching our three children. We all want our homeschooling days to be time well-spent. Curriculum should be used as a tool to reach a family’s educational objectives.
Suitability: Considering an All-in-One Homeschool Package
Homeschool curriculum publishers follow a variety of educational philosophies. They might adhere to a classical, Charlotte Mason, unit study, traditional, or another methodology (or a mix of these). You may favor a certain method, but you’ll likely be using a combination of them. You’ll naturally find that some types of curriculum are more appealing than others. Eventually, you will realize you’re more of a “classical homeschooler,” or a “Charlotte Mason homeschooler.” Homeschooling has a vocabulary all its own—you’ll pick it up as go!
A more pressing question may be how much help you would like piecing together the curriculum for each subject your student will cover in a school year. Companies such as My Fathers World offer complete, or nearly complete packages. (This curriculum has components of Charlotte Mason, unit studies, and classical methodologies, with a Biblical emphasis.) If a grade level doesn’t include materials for every subject, consider their recommended materials to complete the package (just add them to your shopping cart!). In my circle of friends, this seems to be a popular choice for moms with little ones. Having all your subject curriculum put together for you takes away the guesswork. (And it makes it easier to get started with homeschooling!) Abeka is another company that offers the convenience of a full kit that covers every subject needed for a full school year.
Considering a Tailor-made Homeschool Package
Once you’ve been homeschooling for a while, you’ll likely find parts of your curriculum package that you like (such as the math curriculum), but other parts that you don’t (such as the spelling curriculum). That’s when it’s time for more research—so you can find what best suits you and your child.
If you’re just getting started, and an all-in-one package doesn’t appeal to you, you can research and purchase single subject curriculum individually. That is how I started. I looked at a multitude of options (using the resources noted below) and selected curriculum for each subject. It’s more work, for sure, but I also liked researching possibilities to find the best fit. The information below will help you to narrow things down, whether it’s for an all-in-one package or a tailor-made (by you!) package.
Suitability: Considering Your Teaching Style
If you haven’t ever considered your “teaching style,” that’s okay! Just understand that you will instinctively teach in a way that gravitates toward your own learning preferences. Do you favor a rigorous study schedule that is dictated by objectives, or do you prefer a more relaxed method of self-directed inquiry? Would you choose to delve into a topic by creating a project, by reading on your own, or by watching a video? Would you rather be given a list of resources to gather, or instead, do your own investigating?
Do you enjoy reading out loud? Would you rather communicate directions through written form, verbal instructions, or an example? Do you enjoy providing frequent guidance as your child works; or do you prefer having an independent learner?
If the lesson material needs to be implemented in a way that doesn’t fit your style, it might not be a profitable investment. As you contemplate the options, take into consideration your teaching preferences. But wait—there’s another consideration: your child’s learning style.
Suitability: Considering Your Child’s Learning Style
Again: if “learning style” hasn’t been in your vocabulary, that’s okay! You probably know more about your child’s learning preferences than you think. As parents, we naturally accommodate them. When our children struggle to learn something, we instinctively try teaching the concept in another way.
Here is a brief overview of three learning style preferences:
Visual Learners
“Visual learners” appreciate studying maps or diagrams and using highlighters to organize notes. They prefer written instructions or having a teacher demonstrate how something should be done. These students would rather take notes or make flashcards than get involved in class discussions. My oldest daughter gravitates toward this learning style. She has always been an avid note-taker. As a college student, she still takes copious handwritten notes. She recently got Rocketbook Beacons so that she can upload the myriad of notes on her whiteboards—to the Cloud (who knew!?).
Auditory Learners
“Auditory learners” will easily soak up and repeat back any information they hear. These students relish class discussion time. They can easily memorize songs and articulate oral summaries. My son leans toward this type of learning. He is known for his long conversations (even at the age of two!).
Kinesthetic Learners
A “kinesthetic learner” will learn best from a tactile experience, such as working with manipulatives. They might love doing science experiments. But they might not bother with reading the instructions ahead of time. Role-playing is a fun learning activity for these kids. My middle child is more of a kinesthetic learner. She loves creating things. She also treasured her time acting on stage as part of a performing group.
Choosing Curriculum with Preferences in Mind
How can we adapt to our child’s learning style when homeschooling? To soak up a historical account, for example, a visual learner will profit from taking notes or working on an activity sheet. An auditory learner, however, might benefit most from sharing his thoughts through discussion. A kinesthetic learner could gleefully act out a scene related to the lesson. We can effortlessly tailor to our children’s learning styles with the right curriculum.
The History Revealed series by Diana Waring has a plethora of opportunities for learning in different ways. A lesson example from one of her activity books (grades K-4) offers reading, discussing, watching a video, completing a word scramble, making crafts, mapping, drawing, singing, and playing charades! My son loved these activity books.
Being Flexible
On a personal note, however, this curriculum sometimes made teaching feel like a burden. It just didn’t work well with my teaching style (which is more open-and-go). When we used the History Revealed high school curriculum (written for grades 6-12), it was too much work to wade through all the activity options. (All the choices might energize others!) I did enjoy some other aspects of the curriculum (particularly Mrs. Waring’s enthusiasm, her Biblical focus, and her audio recordings), and the lessons certainly catered to the different learning styles of my children. So we stuck with it (for three years)!
All that being said—don’t be concerned if learning style isn’t always at the forefront of your mind. If you have a struggling student, it’s certainly an area for further examination. If your school days are a bit ho-hum, consider pursuing activities that accommodate your child’s learning preferences. But give yourself kudos for being informed, and keep in mind that much of homeschooling is trial and error. You will probably sense your child’s learning style intuitively and figure out how he learns best, as you work together.
Additionally, if you have a student who may someday attend college, remember that he will have to adapt to however the material is presented. This is true in the workplace as well. Our students need to be flexible about learning in a variety of ways. And as teachers, we need to be flexible about teaching in a variety of ways. But also know that using a curriculum you both appreciate can help to make the school day most profitable (enjoyable, agreeable, pleasant . . . you choose the word. Experienced homeschool moms—you know what I mean!).
Choosing Curriculum with Long-term Goals in Mind
As you consider all the options, be cognizant of long-term goals. If you’re preparing your child for college, you’ll want to choose a more rigorous curriculum. College admission departments look for evidence that homeschoolers are prepared to complete advanced coursework. If your student seems to have an aptitude for math, a challenging curriculum will adequately prepare him for the completion of courses such as Calculus. This will look great on his high school transcript and be of benefit if he pursues a math major or related field of study in college.
Maybe your child struggles with math but is linguistically gifted. You can select a math curriculum that just meets the entrance requirements for college. Then relax your efforts with that subject. But go all-out pursuing four years of in-depth language study. (International travel is a great way to supplement foreign language study!)
Keeping Doors Open
I know this is obvious, but I think it is worth emphasizing. Students will not learn how to factor binomials or translate Latin on their own. If they don’t have a solid, well-rounded math or grammar education in the years leading up to Algebra or foreign language study, they will struggle. Plan accordingly (for all subjects) if college is in the future.
We chose to educate our children in a way that kept doors open. At some point on the homeschool trek, it might seem like college isn’t in your child’s future (I understand it isn’t feasible for everyone). But for us, we wanted to prepare our children for as many opportunities as possible. After high school graduation, they can decide which path to pursue. But we didn’t want any regrets over pursuits that were hindered by a lack of education in our years of homeschooling.
Fulfilling that goal is hard. The days are long. Our kids will be uncooperative at times. Our self-discipline will wane. But it’s our responsibility as teaching parents to keep long-term goals in perspective. We must remember that curriculum is a tool for meeting those goals so that our children can pursue the missions that lie beyond the homeschooling years.
Gathering Information on Homeschool Curriculum
From a Friend
Looking at curriculum alongside an experienced homeschool parent is a great way to research the options. Getting your hands on the actual material is a big help. A friend can offer valuable insight into what they liked or didn’t like, or even a comparison to another curriculum they used for the same subject. Having all the components of a curriculum laid out in front of you can also make it easier to understand how it all works together. The Saxon “meeting book” makes more sense when you see it alongside the math manipulatives and the scripted dialogue provided in the teacher’s guide.
But do keep in mind that what works for one family might not work for the next. While looking for a new history curriculum, I had a friend enthusiastically tell me about what they had used and loved (the previously mentioned Diana Waring History curriculum!). Based on that, I made a (quite costly – eek!) purchase and used that curriculum for the next three years. It met many of the requirements on my checklist for a history curriculum, and it was doable. But it wasn’t my favorite because it didn’t fit my teaching style. (I am sure it is an absolute favorite for others—it does have a lot to offer!) I just didn’t spend enough time looking over the curriculum before committing to it.
If you’re just learning about all the homeschool curriculum options, ask a homeschool friend to show you what they’ve used. This can be an awesome opportunity to get familiar with some of the possibilities. It may also help you to better identify what you’re looking for, and what you want to avoid.
In a Favorite Book
The Well-Trained Mind has been my go-to homeschool handbook for years. Along with prayer, this book gave me the courage to start mapping out our homeschool journey. A little fair warning: it is information-overload for homeschooling newbies. After checking it out from the library, I purchased a copy (the 2009 edition). Then I could highlight, dog-ear, and note pages as needed. Seven homeschooling years later, I also bought the 2016 edition. As a penny-pinching mom, I rarely buy reading material for myself (I have patron cards for four different libraries in my purse). But in our early years of homeschooling, I took this book with me on summer vacations!
The authors, Susan Wise Bauer and her mom Jessie Wise, offer an academic roadmap for homeschooling from preschool through high school. It is based on the philosophy of a classical education using the pattern of the trivium. (I was only vaguely familiar with this concept). This educational method isn’t a good fit for every family, but it has worked for us as we have (loosely) followed it. The book helped me to think outside the box of conventional methods of education in America.
It also addresses topics such as learning difficulties, socialization, schedules, record keeping, and preparing for college. Additionally, details are provided for their recommended curriculum. This includes an overview of the material, how to use it, possible drawbacks, estimated costs, and ordering information.
(But Do What Works!)
I have found the theory, suggestions, and curriculum references to be exceedingly helpful. That being said, for many years I tried implementing the book’s key recommendations for history and science study. It was a painful pursuit for me. Later in our homeschooling trek, I switched to curriculum that’s not even mentioned in the book. The suggested methods of history and science study required too much effort from this tired momma. Additionally, and more importantly, I felt we were missing the Christian worldview that is critical to our study of these subjects. (I have written more about that in the post Curriculum Considerations: What’s the Goal?) But I still reference The Well-Trained Mind, even after a decade of teaching my kids. It is an empowering instruction guide for homeschoolers!
At a Homeschool Conference
Another way to invest in your school year is by attending a homeschool conference! I am always encouraged by the motivational speakers and the fellowship with other homeschoolers. There is also the opportunity to mull over curriculum for hours on end! Experts are eager to answer your questions, and vendors often showcase their products in free workshops. (Just be aware that you may be listening to a thinly-veiled sales pitch.) For new homeschoolers especially, a conference offers a fantastic way to get your questions answered and to find the resources you need.
In my early years of researching and settling on homeschool curriculum, I took a long shopping list to our state’s annual conference. And I truly tried to stick to it. Who knew curriculum could be so shiny and sparkly! If I purchased books impulsively, they often ended up in my “sell” pile a few months later. I would recommend doing as much research as possible ahead of time. Then use the conference as an opportunity to crack books open.
Consider each curriculum in light of your teaching style and your child’s learning style. How long are the reading assignments? How difficult is the vocabulary? What kind of learning activities does the author suggest? Do the assignments require too much writing? Too little? How appealing is it visually? Is it interesting? Even compelling? Does it fit within your educational goals? Is it rigorous enough? You will be looking at your chosen material for many months. Be sure it meets your needs!
Finding Reviews and Purchasing Curriculum
Cathy Duffy is a well-known resource for curriculum reviews. Her website is exhaustive. Her reviews are meaty and well-researched. She also offers links for ordering from reputable suppliers. Cathy is a much-appreciated homeschool review guru!
Christianbook.com is a great place for ordering homeschool curriculum. The website seems to collect a good number of reviews. Additionally, they offer helpful links to free resources, such as Saxon math placement exams.
For over a decade, I have ordered the majority of my new curriculum from Rainbow Resource Center (rainbowresource.com). Their website offers thorough descriptions that specify other books or supplies needed (or recommended) for implementing a curriculum. It can be very frustrating to kick off your first day of school, only to realize you’re missing an integral part of your curriculum. Ugh! But reading through the details on this website can help you to avoid that disappointment. Sometimes a video description is offered, such as the Saxon Math Homeschool K-3rd Grade Series video and the Apologia Science Series video. This extra information is superbly helpful when you’re trying to wrap your brain around all the options! A free consultation is also available if you’re struggling to make a decision!
Curriculum can also be purchased directly from publishers. But if it’s widely used by public or Christian schools, the ordering process can be cumbersome because it’s not tailored to individual users. I’ve found it easiest to order everything online, in one fell swoop, through a supplier such as rainbowresource.com or Christianbook.com. It’s a delightful day when that box is delivered to your doorstep!
Buying Used Homeschool Curriculum
I have frequently purchased used curriculum from a friend, a bookstore, a Facebook marketplace, or a homeschool group’s used book sale. This has certainly saved us money. It is easier to go this route when you know precisely what you’re looking for. It’s a little trickier for a new homeschooler who’s still learning the ropes. Be sure to do your research and gather all the needed materials.
The Saxon Math curriculum for first grade includes a teacher’s book, student workbooks, a meeting book, and manipulatives. You may be able to find a used teacher’s book and the (many) manipulatives. But the student workbooks and the meeting book are consumable, so you will likely need to buy them new. Buying everything new can make this process much easier and less time-consuming (albeit more expensive!). Online suppliers will often put everything together in a convenient kit (e.g., Saxon Math Grade 1 Home Study Kit).
A Side Note: Our #1 Homeschool Must-Have
A necessity at our house has been dry erase boards (usually under $5 each). We have used them almost every day, for all the years we’ve homeschooled. We have purchased the larger 11×16 size as well as smaller ones, and have always used the blank, unlined boards. They have a hardboard back that makes them sturdy and keeps them dent-free. They also clean up well. In a pinch, I have purchased other kinds of whiteboards from Dollar Tree, Walmart, and (a more expensive one) from Staples, but these basic boards have endured the trek with us. For some reason, working out a math problem on a shiny dry erase board with your favorite color of expo marker (my son passionately insists on the ultra-fine tip) is way more fun than working out a math problem on paper!
Curriculum Considerations: Part of Your Prayerful Adventure
As with everything, spend some time asking God to bless your efforts! There is often significant time and money spent on researching and purchasing homeschool curriculum. We want to honor God not only as we educate our children, but also as we use our limited resources.
I also encourage you to give yourself grace. Homeschooling is much like parenting in general. Just when you start to get things figured out for a particular stage of life, your kids grow and change; and you’re on to new things. It’s part of the adventure—embrace it!
It’s wise to consider the value of a thorough curriculum, as well as its suitability for you and your student. It won’t serve you well if it isn’t a good fit. There is an overwhelming amount of information available. As you research, you will gravitate toward the curriculum that fits your preferences and meets your educational goals.
Online suppliers can help you finalize your decisions by providing detailed curriculum descriptions, reviews, and even informational videos. Helpful resources are plentiful—take advantage of them! Be sure you’ve purchased all the materials necessary for implementing your chosen curriculum. Eventually—hopefully—you will realize that what you’ve selected is a good fit. It works and you’ve found a favorite curriculum (yay)!
Having a shiny dry erase board and new markers might be a little reminiscent of a new box of crayons on the first day of kindergarten. I hope you prayerfully and joyfully anticipate the start of a new curriculum or a new school year! I would love to hear how things are going on your homeschool trek (let me know below)!
