5 Places to Find Free Homeschool Resources

Where do you go to find free homeschool resources?  We don’t think you need to look too far – here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Friends & Support Groups – Homeschool families generously share ideas and support, but many also love the idea of passing along curriculum, tools and resources.  As Tina shared “through the various networks of homeschooling parents I have been in I have received several grade levels of miscellaneous curriculum that were donated to me. I DO NOT refuse curriculum. I take it all, organize it, decide if we will use it, keep what I will and then re-donate to other families”.  Why not coordinate a curriculum swap with your friends this summer as you are making plans for your new school year?
2. Your local library – Most counties and cities have online access to their libraries databases so you can look up books from the comfort of your home, reserve them, and pick them up at the local library when they are ready. You can find anything from the classics to how-to books, DVDs, magazines and more.  Also, check to see if your library offers workshops – many offer interesting programs for children and adults (most of which are probably FREE).
3. Your home – Help your young children learn to read by placing Post-It Notes or index cards on items throughout your home with the word for the item clearly written out (such as the word “door” will be stuck to the door and “oven” to the oven). Give children old electronics or small appliances to take apart and learn “how it’s made.”  Plant a garden, find a new recipe and cook together as a family, or organize a space, etc. You can even have your children make a video, take photos or write a summary of their “lessons learned” and accomplishments.
4. Local businesses – The grocery store provides a wealth of learning opportunities, including budgeting, nutrition and consumer science. Ask local small business owners what it takes to start and run a business.  Contact post offices and fire departments and arrange field trips to learn how those operations support the community.
5. Internet – A simple search for “homeschool for free” will provide a long list of websites offering free resources – everything from worksheets, lap books, unit studies, audio books, support groups, etc.  There are also websites that offer daily or weekly email newsletters with free products delivered right to your Inbox.  Click here for a sample list of suggestions to get you started.

The only thing better than finding a great free resource is sharing it!  Be sure to share your favorite free resources with other homeschool families using our Comments section below.