As the growing interest in homeschooling continues, so does the number of resources. While shopping for educational aids can be fun, it’s important to manage it cost-effectively. We’re here to help you navigate your homeschooling journey without breaking the bank. This guide offers practical advice on what’s necessary, what’s optional, and what you can safely avoid. Come on, parent! Let me show you how to save some money while still providing a high-quality education.
What You Must Have
There are a few core educational materials you are going to need: books, basic school supplies, math and language arts tools, online resources, a printer, a laminator, and a space for learning. Let’s dive deeper into these essentials!
Books
You’re going to need three essential types of books:
- A solid curriculum or curriculum guide
- Reading materials
- Reference books (math, science, language arts, etc.)
A Guided Curriculum or Curriculum Guide is a must-have, whether online or a textbook. Unlike “all-in-one” curriculum packages that include every supply under the sun, some of which you’ll never use, finding an Online Curriculum Guide gives you structured lessons and activities that are flexible, customizable, and easy to follow, with extra support that many all-in-ones could not give you. Pair it with your existing books, printables, or digital resources, and you’ll save money, space, and overwhelm.
For reading and reference books, take advantage of free online resources, libraries, and secondhand bookstores. Half Price Books has been a treasure trove for me! (Although in 2026, they have all closed down. Substitute? Five Below! Amazing book selection for every subject).
Basic Supplies
Don’t overlook the basics: paper, pencils, pens, erasers, notebooks, paint, colored pencils or crayons, markers, and folders. Sometimes, simplicity is key!
Math and Language Arts Tools + YouTube
Creating your own materials daily can be exhausting. Instead, supplement with worksheets, flashcards, and affordable online programs like Khan Academy, Cool Math Games, or skill-specific YouTube channels.
I still love making my own activities, but now I pair The Moneá Academy Curriculum Guide Book with IXL.com and Pinterest. Pinterest is basically the Google for homeschooling parents! It helps us find exactly the worksheets I need without reinventing the wheel. And let’s not neglect TeachersPayTeachers!
Space for Learning
A dedicated learning space sets the tone for education. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A quiet corner, a dining table, or even an extra room will work. For my older kids, we have an “everything room” for class, events, and bible study. For younger children, I’m creating a small learning corner in my bedroom for my 2-year-old and one-year-old.
Organizational & Record-Keeping Tools
Stay organized! Keep folders, planners, and a filing case for records, lesson plans, and student work. Even if your state doesn’t require it, organized records can help later with transitions, college applications, or curriculum reviews. Again, you don’t need something fancy to get started, and our Online Curriculum Guide comes with record-keeping documents (with an option to get a record-keeping spiral)!
Laminator & Printer
A printer and laminator are essential. Printables can be reused, saving money and reducing waste. Pairing the Epson Large 11×17 printer with the large laminator is a game-changer: perfect for posters, activities, and reusable teaching tools.
What You Can Buy If You Have Extra
If your budget allows, consider:
- Extra art and craft supplies: paints, clay, markers, or online art programs. Avoid one-time kits—they can be expensive and limiting.
- Educational games and puzzles: Board games or DIY printable games reinforce skills in a fun way.
- Science kits: STEM kits offer hands-on learning and experiments, but can be pricey. Use them as supplements, not essentials.
- Digital subscriptions: Platforms like ABCmouse, Outschool, or Audible provide extra interactive lessons. Again, you can just use IXL.com paired with a curriculum guide. It works wonders!
Do Not Waste Your Money
Avoid:
- Expensive “all-in-one” curriculum packages – they’re rigid and often include materials you’ll never use. Spending $800 on books you will never touch hurts financially and mentally. Look for customizable, flexible guides like The Moneá Academy Curriculum Guide that teach you and help you plan your month.
- Brand-name products – often overpriced for no real added value.
- Flashy gadgets – your two-year-old doesn’t need the latest iPad to learn, trust me, an Amazon tablet does a lot.
- Over-the-top organizational tools – basic folders and planners work perfectly.
- Extravagant field trips – local parks, museums, and libraries offer just as much learning for free or low-cost.
Extra Tips for Homeschooling on a Budget
- Use free resources: Worksheets, activities, and printables abound online.
- Buy digital downloads: Print and reuse them + cheaper than physical kits.
- Buy secondhand: Check Facebook Marketplace, homeschool groups, or thrift stores.
- Barter: Swap lessons, materials, or services with other families.
- Join homeschool co-ops: Shared resources and bulk-buying opportunities save money.
- DIY Projects: Turn household items into teaching tools.
- Utilize local resources: Libraries, museums, and community centers often host free events.
- Set a budget: Prioritize essential learning tools over social media hype.
Final Remarks
To recap, you must-have a solid curriculum or Curriculum Guide, subject-based books and tools, basic supplies, a printer, laminator, and a learning space. Build slowly with extra art supplies, puzzles, STEM kits, and subscriptions if the budget allows. Avoid all-in-one packages, flashy products, and unnecessary extras.
Homeschooling on a budget is entirely possible with planning, creativity, and the right tools. The Moneá Academy Curriculum Guide is an essential resource to simplify your planning, save you money, and reduce overwhelm—because homeschooling should be empowering, not exhausting.
If you have more tips or want to share budget-friendly homeschool hacks, join us on Facebook at The Moneá Academy Homeschooling Survival Guide. We’d love to hear from you!
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