You’ve decided to homeschool and have been researching for what seems like an entire school year! Every time you think you’ve got it figured out, BAM: there’s something new or you heard from so-and-so that their neighbors’ cousin had an Aunt who used “xyz” curriculum and loved it. You dive into researching that plan and realize it’s the best! But then, just as you’re about to check out with your $467 cart purchase, the phone rings. It has nothing to do with homschooling but you stopped to take a break and a random commercial came on about a free homeschool booklet to your door!
Does this sound familiar? We thought so! And we know how overwhelming all of it can be.
If you need some quick tips on things you should actually learn, read this post first:
3 Things to Learn Before You Begin Homechooling and then come back here to continue!
Here are 10 of our favorite resources we use in our rotation! Keep in mind, we are working through first grade as this post is written so one or two may not meet your older children’s goals but many do and we hope it gives you a good guide on what and where to look!
1. KNOW YOUR STATE LAWS; KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Because it varies state to state we highly suggest finding what you need. Don’t take someone elses word for it. Empower yourself and know what is required by law for your homeschooler. Find your state’s laws on homeschooling HERE.
2. LOCAL FACEBOOK GROUPS
Whether you’re just starting out or have been a homeschooler for years, a community and support of others going through similar experiences is so helpful! Try typing your city’s name and then “homeschool group” or “homeschool support” to find your nearest group! You can also use the same search ideas to find groups for project ideas, curriculum by age, etc…!
3. THE LIBRARY
It’s 2020 but libraries are still a wonderful place to get books books books and more! More? Yes! Many libraries now offer free online e-books, audio, and in person events!
There are everything from toddler play dates to local zoos or businesses who bring a ton of educational and exciting lessons for your homeschooler. And we admit, you will probably love them too!
4. TEACHERSPAYTEACHERS.COM
There’s just no way we could leave this incredible resource off the list! It is gold! You can search and filter results a few different ways, including by price (and tons are FREE)! Don’t say we didn’t warn you at how great it is: ENJOY!
5. HOMESCHOOL STORES
If you can find a local homeschool store, go go go! They are incredible hubs of resource and a wealth of knowledge (often times being owned by homeschool families who have “been there, done that”). They usually have a new and used section which has been so fun for our family making trips to “hunt” for new games or learning activities.
6. MATH-DRILLS.COM
Free resource with thousands of worksheets you can print quickly with ease! HERE.
7. DuoLingo
Easy to use FREE App to learn a different language! This is one app we don’t feel guilty for when the kids want a little screen time!
8. ABC MOUSE
Mainly for the little homeschooler, this website (and app) has been a great help in those beginning years! Look for specials or discounts just for homeschoolers! HERE.
9. YOUTUBE CHANNEL SUBSCTIPTIONS
We didn’t use youtube for a long time and I wish we had! GAME CHANGER! I don’t leave the kids uattended with it so we keep control. This Roku app add on gets used allllll the time over here! And the REAL special feature here, is adding a specific channel so you can reference back or pick up where you were in moments. We do beginner Tae-Kwon-Do, Art Classes, Yoga, and so much more!
10. OUTDOORS
We saved the best for last! Never underestimate the learning possibilities that are right in front of you! When the girls were little we would grab acorns that had fallen on the porch (free clean-up!) and make art with paint and acorns in an aluminum lasagna pan. Anytime we go on a trip we seem to bring home a shell or treasure. And these days, we have started diving into Nature Notebooks! Remember that homeschooling means you can do things a little different and at your own pace so be sure you stop and smell the flowers!
There it is! 10 resources every homeschooler needs in their life!
What’s your favorite!? Be sure to tag us or find us on Instagram or Facebook, or leave us an e-mail to let us know what you use!
Love y’all!