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What is a Homeschool Curriculum?

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Mrs. Elliott

What is a Homeschool Curriculum?

When you search for a definition of a homeschool curriculum, you’ll often come across the simple explanation: “Homeschool curriculums are the collected lessons you plan to teach your child at home.” (THSC). While this is accurate, it doesn’t capture the full depth of what a curriculum means to a homeschooling family!  For us, the curriculum is much more than just lessons—it’s a tool that shapes a child’s personal learning experience, helping them grow academically, emotionally, and creatively!

Why Do I Need a Homeschool Curriculum?

While creating your own homeschool curriculum is entirely possible, it can be an overwhelming and stressful task, especially for first-time homeschoolers. The process of developing a comprehensive, well-rounded module can lead to burnout and frustration, which is why many families choose to purchase a pre-made curriculum guide. These guides help take the guesswork out of lesson planning and provide the structure that many parents find helpful in maintaining consistency and focus. A homeschool curriculum guide can be a lifesaver for families looking to create an enriching learning environment without all the added stress.

How Do I Choose a Homeschool Curriculum?

Choosing the right curriculum for your family can feel like a daunting task, especially with so many options available. You’ll find countless recommendations from influencers, mom groups, and other homeschooling families, each offering advice on what’s best. To make the best choice for your family, it’s important to consider your values and your child’s individual needs.

For example, if your family’s faith is central to your education, a Christian-based curriculums like Abeka or Easy Peasy All-In-One might be a great fit. Alternatively, if you’re passionate about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), you might prefer a curriculum like Apologia, which is specifically designed to foster a love of these subjects.

For creative and colorful homeschooling experiences, Sonlight offers a visually engaging approach, while The Moneá Academy blends minimalism with creative freedom, perfect for those who embrace a more relaxed, artsy vibe.

It’s also important to ensure that the curriculum you choose aligns with your state’s educational requirements. Each state has different homeschooling laws, so be sure to check what subjects are required for homeschooling in your area. You can find more information on state-specific requirements at HSLDA.

Types of Homeschool Curriculums Based on Values

…and much more! There’s a curriculum out there that’s perfect for your child’s interests and your family’s unique values.

Important Facts to Consider

When selecting a curriculum, be aware that STEM-based modules can be more expensive due to the resources and materials involved. However, they offer valuable learning opportunities in fields that are already costly, like science and technology. While these curriculums can be a significant investment, they might be the right fit if your child shows a keen interest in STEM subjects.

That said, homeschooling is flexible, and if structured curriculums aren’t your style, there’s always the option of unschooling. Unschooling focuses on child-led learning, often incorporating field trips, life skills, and the child’s own interests into the learning process. If this sounds appealing, you can explore more about unschooling in my article here.

Ultimately, the best curriculum for your family will depend on your child’s interests, your educational philosophy, and your budget. Do your research, trust your instincts, and choose a curriculum that feels right for you and your child!

Conclusion

Whether you opt for a traditional curriculum or a more flexible approach like unschooling, the key is finding what works best for your child and family. Start by evaluating your values, your child’s interests, and the resources available to you. With the right guidance and support, homeschooling can be a fulfilling and empowering experience for everyone involved.

Resources & Links

Homeschool laws by State. HSLDA. (n.d.). https://hslda.org/legal

THSC’s Guide to Homeschool Curriculum. Texas Home School Coalition. (2025, January 23). https://thsc.org/homeschool-curriculum/#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20homeschool%20curriculum,teach%20your%20child%20at%20home.