Choosing the best complete curriculum can be a difficult and daunting task. This may be especially true for first-time homeschoolers since there are so many types of curricula available. While there’s no “one size fits all” curriculum, it’s important to choose one that fits both your child’s individual learning style and engages his or her interest. It should also provide a well-rounded education.
There are several options to consider when choosing a complete curriculum. In addition to what is being offered, it helps to know in advance what you would like to teach and how you want to teach it. You should also figure out how best your child learns, such as using traditional methods, online, or with hands-on activities Remember that even though a particular curriculum works for one child, it may not necessarily work for another.
It’s also recommended that you assess each child’s math and reading skills to help find a suitable curriculum. In some cases, it may be necessary to mix and match various lessons to accommodate the individual needs of the child. Decide on a budget and then locate complete curriculum resources to meet the specified criteria.
Many families choose to purchase a complete curriculum from homeschool supply companies or similar vendors. These curriculum packages have the advantage of preplanned lessons throughout the year and are usually targets at a specific grade level. All materials are generally included, such as teacher guides, books, workbooks, study sheets, tests, and supplemental reading material. In addition, there may be activities, videos, and online resources available.
While these complete curriculum packages make homeschooling easier, as they are user-friendly, well-structured, and meet state guidelines, they are also quite expensive. In fact, depending on the type of curriculum needed and the number of children, these packages can cost as much as $1,000 US dollars (USD) or more per child each year. This is where both research and budgeting pays off.
Another downside is the lack of flexibility. Parents and students alike have little room for imagination or working around specific learning styles. For this reason, some people actually choose to create their own complete curriculum. They may use curricula from various vendors as well as from free and low-cost resources. This allows the ability to teach according to your child’s learning style using certified resources with more flexibility.
A complete curriculum can be expensive regardless of whether it’s purchased from one vendor or many. It is well worth the effort to research reviews from other homeschoolers. They not only provide insight into certain curriculum programs but may share ideas as well. In addition, checking with local groups and organizations or curriculum fairs where vendors may be available to answer questions or provide curriculum samples.
