Our Homeschool Setup
Homeschool Tools We Actually Use
When we started homeschooling, I had no idea where to begin. I spent days researching curriculum, free resources, and simple tools that would actually help our days run smoothly.
These are the homeschool resources that truly helped our family. Some are free, some are things I buy every year because they make homeschooling easier.
*This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Simple Homeschool Kit
I thought we needed an entire classroom setup when we first started homeschooling. We didn’t. These were the tools that helped us get through our very first homeschool day without feeling overwhelmed.
Curriculum We Use
Building Spelling Skills Workbook
More Curriculum Information Below
Core Learning Setup
Multiplication Practice Whiteboard
Simple Desk Setup
Paper Organization
Accordion File Saver with Zipper
Wide Ruled Composition Notebooks
Spiral Notebooks for Math Scratch Work
Daily Planner Notepad for Parent and Child
Everyday School Supplies
Pencil Sharpener (Electric and Small Handheld)
Math & Time Practice
Reading Curriculum
This reading curriculum was a lifesaver! My daughter had a hard time reading when we first started. This program was mentioned to us, and we recommend it 100%. Not only did our daughter’s reading skills improve in a few months, but the games and activities were a fun addition. There are also free placement tests to determine which level is right for your child. I enjoyed it so much, I am using the same curriculum for my toddler!
Practice & Supplemental Workbooks
While learning the ins and outs of homeschooling, I quickly realized we needed simple workbooks for extra practice. Spectrum and Building Spelling Skills books ended up being one of the easiest ways to reinforce what we were learning without overwhelming our day.
Building Spelling Skills Workbooks K-6
Spectrum Kindergarten Workbooks
Spectrum Grade 5 Workbooks (the one we used most)
You can also browse all Spectrum workbooks here.
Online Learning Platforms
These are the resources I found most helpful when putting together our curriculum. I always try to find free materials online when I can, but a few of these were so good that I’ve ended up buying them every year we’ve homeschooled.
Khan Academy – All Subjects (Free)
National Geographic Kids (Free)
Local Online Library (Free)
Educator Discounts
Don’t be afraid to use the teacher’s discounts. We are educators too, and I ask about teacher discounts wherever I go, because every little bit helps when you’re stretching a homeschool budget.
I keep a simple homeschool ID handy that shows the word “Educator” instead of “Homeschool Teacher”. The ID number is the same number I received when I signed up for HSLDA. This is also documentation that can be used to verify you are an educator.
Sample ID
Here’s how I use my educator discounts:
Target (seasonal teacher discounts)
HSLDA Member Savings (Hotels, etc.)
Museums
Zoos
Aquariums
Field trips
