In a previous post, i spoke briefly about six common types of homeschooling. Today I thought we would consider each one in a little more detail, as well as a few curriculum options for each one. Keep in mind that I am not a paid affiliate for these programs. These are just a few options that I have come across while doing my own research.
1. Traditional Homeschool
Traditional homeschool refers to an educational approach where parents take the primary responsibility for teaching their children at home. Often times, this method uses textbooks or predesigned curriculum packages or lesson plans closely resembling a classroom style education but in a home setting.
The parents serve as the primary teachers, guiding the lessons and monitoring the progress of each child.
A few curriculum options worth considering that align with a traditional homeschool style are Abeka, Easy Peasy, The Good and the Beautiful, and Timberdoodle Curriculum Kits. Individual textbooks and workbooks are also available from retailers such as Rainbow Resource or Amazon.
2. Charlotte Mason
Rooted in the teachings of 19th century educator Charlotte Mason, this method of homeschooling focuses on educating the whole child.
It comes from a philosophy that emphasizes a love of learning, living books, nature study, and the development of good habits through rich literature, hands on experiences, and a deep appreciation for the world around us.
Charlotte Mason’s philosophy is built on several key principles including, but not limited to, narration, short lessons, and nature studies.
There are many curriculum options that embrace these principles including Ambleside Online, Simply Charlotte Mason, Book Shark, and Winter Promise Curriculum. Whether you choose a free resource or invest in a structured program, each of these options will help you create a meaningful and literature-rich homeschool experience for your family.
3. Unschooling
Unschooling is a unique child-led approach to homeschooling. Unlike traditional homeschooling, which often follows a set curriculum, unschooling allows children to explore their interests at their own pace, with a philosophy that children learn best when they are free to follow their natural curiosity.
Instead of structured lessons, unschooling encourages real world experiences, hands on projects, and self directed learning. Parents act as facilitators rather than teachers, providing resources and opportunities for learning.
While unschooling doesn’t require a formal curriculum, many families find value in using resources that align with their child’s interests. Outschool, Torchlight Curriculum, Brave Writer, and Blossom and Root are just a few of the options that work well within an unschooling framework.
4. Montessori
Montessori is another excellent way to provide hands on, child led, education at home. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, this approach encourages independence, self motivation, and a deep love for learning.
Montessori learning is flexible, allowing children to explore subjects at their own pace. Children are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning and their daily routines. In addition to academics, Montessori covers practical life skills, emotional intelligence and problem solving.
If you are considering Montessori as a homeschool style, here are a few excellent program options: Montessori by Mom, Shiller Learning Montessori, North American Montessori Center, and KHT Montessori.
5. Eclectic
One of the most adaptable and creative methods of homeschooling is called Eclectic Homeschool. This approach allows parents to tailor their child’s education by mixing and matching different curricula, resources, and teaching methods to suit their learning styles and interests.
Instead of being tied to a single philosophy, Eclectic homeschooling may combine elements from various homeschool methods such as Montessori, Charlotte Mason, Online, and Traditional to create a personalized homeschool program that best meets the students needs.
If you are thinking about an Eclectic homeschool approach here are a few excellent curricula options or feel free to mix and match to create a well rounded education: The Good and The Beautiful, Homseschool Complete, Wayfarers, and Easy Peasy.
6. Online
With a variety of digital tools, online classes, and structured programs available, Online homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many parents seeking a flexible education plan for their students.
Many online programs provide expert instruction, interactive lessons and a structured approach. Parents can tailor the curriculum to the learning styles of their children and each student learns at their own pace and on their own schedule.
A few great online curriculum options to consider are Khan Academy, Power Homeschool, Time 4 Learning, IXL, And Easy Peasy.
Another option for online schooling is that of Accredited Online Schools. The main difference between online curriculum and an accredited online school lies in the structure, recognition, and oversight.
Online curriculum refers to a set of educational materials used by homeschool families that may or may not align with state or national academic standards. Online curriculum providers do not issue credits or diplomas.
An accredited online school, on the other hand, is a full-fledged educational institution that delivers courses online, has official accreditation from nationally recognized agencies ensuring that it meets educational standards, and issues diplomas, transcripts, and credits that can be transferred to other schools or colleges.
Examples of accredited online schools are Acellus Academy, K12, Penn Foster, Connections Academy, and Keystone School, but there are many more.
Accreditation is not strictly necessary for graduation. Some states have rules about homeschooling and require accredited programs in order for high school diplomas to be recognized, while other states allow parents to issue diplomas even if the curriculum used was not accredited. It is incredibly important that you research your states laws on this matter before deciding on curriculum.
What Has Worked Best For Us
After the many hours of researching different directions to consider we ultimately went with an Eclectic homeschool method for the elementary and middle school years.
We mixed the online curriculum of Power Homeschool for the core subjects of math, language arts, social studies and science, with work books, reading materials, private music lessons and other resources for the more fun activities of art, music, P.E., health, and Bible lessons.
We also meet together regularly with a homeschool group in the area for opportunities where the kids get to work together on projects and for field trips.
For high school, we decided an online accredited approach was best for us. The oldest one attended Penn Foster High School. As a senior she took the SAT test at local high school and had no problems getting into the college of her choice.
The middle one is currently attending Acellus Academy. Since she used Power Homeschool for elementary and middle school, (which is like a sister company to Acellus Academy), the transition was seamless and she was even able to upload transcripts that count towards some of her high school credits.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer a structured, fully online curriculum or a mix of digital and hands-on learning, there are so many options available to support your homeschool journey. By selecting the right program, establishing a routine and engaging with a homeschool community, you can create a successful and enriching homeschool experience.
What type of homeschool family are you? Share your favorite curriculum choices in the comments below!