Homeschool Curriculum

Selecting the right homeschool curriculum is a cornerstone to homeschool success. You can spend weeks reviewing curriculum websites, homeschool forums, and parent blogs but ultimately the decision comes down to what you value most: quality, time, and compelling content.

A quality curriculum will put your mind at ease because you are confident that you are teaching enough. Though some are confident in their ability, most homeschool parents share common fears:

• Am I teaching enough?
• Too much?
• Am I keeping up?
• Am I holding my child back?

A quality curriculum provides comfort in knowing your student is challenged, mastering concepts, and retaining the material. They are well-planned, so you can focus on teaching instead of researching and organizing. They are relatively consistent, so each day covers roughly the same amount of material and you are not wondering why you are finishing early or late. They place your student in a position to think critically so they are not memorizing facts, but instead, are ending each day with the ability to have an open-ended conversation about the topics they learned.

A curriculum that places a value on your time ensures you have everything you need to start your day on Monday morning. The day is planned, the materials are included, and you simply open a binder or turn on your tablet when you are ready to utilize your lesson plans. A complete curriculum that keeps a 4-day schedule provides both the parent and student time – time for activities or additional work on subjects in which the student needs to improve.

A compelling homeschool curriculum keeps your student’s interested. Young students love to have parents read aloud captivating stories. Independent students find fact-filled history and science far more interesting when they read engaging stories about the various time periods and historical figures they are studying. Students of all ages enjoy hands-on science experiments and grasp concepts as they complete assignments. Language Arts is not as laborious when the creative expression assignments cover the science and history concepts they are learning through other subjects.

Most importantly, know that no homeschool curriculum program fits everyone. Be sure to look at samples of various curriculums to see if the plans fit your pace and family learning style. 

Selecting the right homeschool curriculum can be an overwhelming task, especially given the vast array of options available today. As you navigate this decision-making process, it's essential to consider several key factors to ensure that the curriculum you choose aligns with your educational philosophy, your child's learning style, and your family's goals.

One significant aspect to weigh in your decision-making process is the cost of homeschooling curriculum. While some homeschool curricula can be expensive, it's important to remember that the investment you make in your child's education is invaluable. Consider the value you receive in terms of comprehensive lesson plans, high-quality materials, and engaging resources that enhance your child's learning experience. Some states offer a school choice or educational savings account option. For more information on how to homeschool in your state see here. Many homeschool curriculum providers, like BookShark, offer a range of packages at different price points, allowing you to find a curriculum that fits within your budget without compromising on quality.

Another factor to consider is the popularity and reputation of homeschool programs. Popular homeschool programs often gain recognition for their effectiveness, innovative teaching methods, and positive reviews from homeschooling communities. BookShark, for instance, is widely recognized for its literature-based approach, comprehensive curriculum packages, and engaging content that captivates students' interests and fosters a love for learning.

When deciding on a homeschool curriculum, it's essential to research thoroughly, read reviews from other homeschooling families, and explore sample materials to get a feel for the curriculum's structure, content, and instructional approach. Keep in mind your child's academic needs, your teaching style, and any specific preferences or priorities you have for their education.

Ultimately, the right homeschool curriculum aligns with your values, meets your child's educational needs, and supports their academic growth and development. By carefully evaluating your options and considering factors such as quality, time-saving features, engaging content, and affordability, you can make an informed decision that sets the stage for a successful homeschooling journey.

At BookShark, we pride ourselves on creating a high-quality curriculum with a 4-day schedule filled with compelling content. Check out our full-grade packages and other products to see for yourself:

Each state has its own specific laws regarding homeschooling. For more information on how to homeschool in your state see our page on state homeschooling requirements here. Another invaluable resource is your states' Department of Education website.

The answer to this question varies depending on factors such as your child's learning style, your teaching philosophy, and your family's educational goals. BookShark Homeschool Curriculum is known for its literature-based approach, which can be particularly effective for families who value a strong literary foundation.

A comprehensive homeschool curriculum typically includes core subjects like math, language arts, science, and social studies. BookShark's curriculum often integrates these subjects with literature, providing a rich and interconnected learning experience.

Deciding on a curriculum involves assessing your child's needs, researching available options, reading reviews from other homeschooling families, and possibly attending curriculum fairs or workshops. BookShark offers detailed information on their website, including sample schedules and scope and sequence, to help parents make informed decisions.

There are several popular types of homeschool curriculum learning styles to choose from: Charlotte Mason, Electic, Unit Studies, Unschooling, Literature-based and more. There are often times samples of the various styles of homeschooling available to you on the web. BookShark offers a free sample of our literature-based program for all ages with our 'Dive Into BookShark' .