How to Choose the Right Homeschooling Curriculum

Searching for the perfect homeschooling curriculum can feel overwhelming. And there is a lot of them available online. But how do you know which one’s right for your family?

In this guide, we break down the types of curricula available and share tips on how to find the best fit, especially if you’re looking for free, Christian, or kindergarten-level homeschooling content.

What Types of Homeschooling Curriculums Are Available?

1. Faith-Based (Christian) Curriculums

If aligning your child’s education with Christian values is important, consider:

• Abeka
• My Father’s World
• Sonlight

These offer a full academic structure with a biblical worldview, often including Bible study, character development, and traditional subjects from a Christian lens.

2. Secular Homeschooling Curriculums

These avoid religious content and are ideal for neutral or science-driven instruction. Popular picks include:

• Oak Meadow
• BookShark
• Moving Beyond the Page

These curriculums focus on creativity, critical thinking, and whole-child education.

3. Free Homeschooling Curriculums

For families on a budget, these can provide strong academic support:

• Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
• Khan Academy
• CK-12 Foundation

The search for a homeschooling curriculum free is common, and these options deliver quality without the cost. Many of them are open-source or created by homeschooling parents.

4. Curriculums for Young Learners (Preschool & Kindergarten)

Need something for younger kids? Try these for size:

• ABCmouse (paid)
• The Good and the Beautiful (free components)
• Pre-Kindergarten programs from Easy Peasy

These are perfect for parents interested in a homeschooling curriculum for kindergarten or preschool learners. They usually include colorful visuals, games, and tactile activities.

How Do I Know Which Homeschooling Curriculum Is Right for My Child?

Start by asking:

• Is your child a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner?
• Do you want a religious or secular approach?
• How much structure do you prefer—open-ended or scripted lessons?

Also, look for:

• Grade-level alignment
• Parent resources (like guides or support forums)
• Accreditation (if required by your state or desired for college-bound paths)

Remember, your curriculum should support—not stress—your teaching style.

Can I Mix and Match Homeschooling Curriculums?

Absolutely! Many parents use a hybrid approach—such as math from one provider, language arts from another. Just ensure consistency in scope and sequence.

Mixing and matching allows:

• Personalized learning by subject
• Ability to switch gears if one method isn’t working
• Exposure to a variety of teaching philosophies

Some parents even incorporate real-world learning like cooking (math/science), journaling (writing), or coding apps (tech skills)!

How Much Should I Spend on a Homeschooling Curriculum?

Curriculum costs can range from free to several hundred dollars per subject, per child. Here’s a quick breakdown as we found it at the time of this writing:

• Free/DIY: $0–$50 (mostly digital or printable)
• Mid-Tier Boxed Sets: $200–$500/year
• Premium All-in-One Programs: $600–$1,000+/year

Please do your own research, though, as the numbers may differ. Also, make sure you factor in costs for extras like art supplies, software subscriptions, or enrichment classes.

How Often Should I Review or Change Curriculum?

Some families stick with one provider for years. Others re-evaluate annually or even mid-year. Signs it may be time to switch:

• Your child is bored, frustrated, or falling behind
• You’re constantly skipping or supplementing lessons
• The format doesn’t fit your lifestyle

Whatever you do, you should be patient; give any new curriculum at least a few weeks before deciding it’s not a fit.

Still unsure where to begin? 

Book a free consultation and let us help you use DreamClass to organize your classes and reach your goals.