Choosing the right homeschool curriculum is one of the most important decisions for homeschooling families. With so many options available, selecting the best fit for your child’s learning style, academic needs, and family values can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the different types of homeschool curricula, top recommendations, and resources to help you make an informed choice.
How to Choose a Homeschool Curriculum
Before diving into curriculum options, consider the following factors:
- Learning Style: Does your child learn best through hands-on activities, reading, or structured lessons?
- Teaching Philosophy: Do you prefer a traditional, classical, Montessori, or unit study approach?
- Time Commitment: Are you looking for a full-day curriculum or a flexible schedule?
- Budget: Do you need free resources or are you willing to invest in a premium program?
- Religious or Secular: Do you want a faith-based or non-religious curriculum?
Types of Homeschool Curricula
1. Traditional (Textbook-Based) Curriculum
This approach closely resembles public school methods, using structured lesson plans, workbooks, and tests.
Recommended Programs:
- Abeka (https://www.abeka.com) – Christian-based, traditional curriculum.
- BJU Press (https://www.bjupresshomeschool.com) – Faith-based, textbook and online learning.
- Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (https://www.hmhco.com) – Secular curriculum used in many public schools.
2. Classical Education Curriculum
This method follows the three-stage Trivium model (Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric) and focuses on literature, Latin, and logical reasoning.
Recommended Programs:
- Memoria Press (https://www.memoriapress.com) – Rigorous classical Christian curriculum.
- The Well-Trained Mind (https://www.welltrainedmind.com) – Comprehensive classical homeschooling guide.
- Classical Conversations (https://www.classicalconversations.com) – Community-based classical education.
3. Montessori Homeschool Curriculum
A hands-on, child-led approach that encourages exploration and independence.
Recommended Programs:
- Montessori Academy Online (https://montessori-academy.com) – Online Montessori training and curriculum.
- KHT Montessori (https://khtmontessori.com) – Affordable Montessori resources.
- Montessori Print Shop (https://www.montessoriprintshop.com) – Printable Montessori materials.
4. Charlotte Mason Curriculum
This approach focuses on literature, nature study, and narration instead of traditional textbooks and tests.
Recommended Programs:
- Ambleside Online (https://www.amblesideonline.org) – Free Charlotte Mason book lists and schedules.
- The Good and the Beautiful (https://www.goodandbeautiful.com) – Literature-rich, faith-based curriculum.
- Simply Charlotte Mason (https://simplycharlottemason.com) – Comprehensive CM-based homeschool planning.
5. Unit Studies Curriculum
Subjects are integrated around a central theme, making learning more immersive and engaging.
Recommended Programs:
- Five in a Row (https://fiveinarow.com) – Literature-based unit studies.
- Moving Beyond the Page (https://www.movingbeyondthepage.com) – Thematic, hands-on learning.
- Konos Unit Studies (https://www.konos.com) – Character-building, Christian-based unit studies.
6. Online & Self-Paced Curriculum
For families who need flexibility, these programs provide interactive, online learning at the student’s own pace.
Recommended Programs:
- Time4Learning (https://www.time4learning.com) – Affordable online curriculum.
- Khan Academy (https://www.khanacademy.org) – Free online courses in all subjects.
- Outschool (https://www.outschool.com) – Live online classes for different subjects and interests.
7. Unschooling & Interest-Led Learning
This approach allows children to learn through life experiences, exploration, and curiosity-driven learning.
Recommended Resources:
- John Holt’s Growing Without Schooling (https://www.johnholtgws.com) – Foundational unschooling philosophy.
- The Unschooling Handbook – A guide to interest-led learning.
- Wild + Free (https://www.bewildandfree.org) – Encourages outdoor exploration and child-led education.
Related Resources from BADA Education
For more homeschooling guidance, check out:
- How to Begin Your Homeschooling Journey
- Homeschool Support Groups in WA
- How to Use Unit Studies in Your Homeschool
Conclusion
The best homeschool curriculum is the one that fits your child’s learning style, your family’s teaching philosophy, and your educational goals. Whether you prefer a structured textbook approach, a literature-based curriculum, or an interactive online program, there are plenty of high-quality options available. By understanding different homeschooling methods and exploring various resources, you can create a customized learning experience that works best for your family.
