Sep 1112 min read

The Ultimate Guide to Homeschool Philosophies and Curriculums: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Family

Updated: Sep 27

Making the decision to homeschool is an exciting time. The ability to provide a supporting environment, flexibility with their schedules, hands on approaches, and peace of mind knowing they are happy and safe are a few of the main reasons we chose to transition to homeschool.

Choosing an Educational Philosophy

Embarking on the journey of creating an educational plan can be quite overwhelming, especially with the multitude of curriculum options available. However, fret not! By tapping into the insights of local homeschooling communities and delving into curriculum research, you'll uncover the key to finding the perfect fit for your needs. Remember, defining your educational philosophy and aligning it with your family's requirements from the get-go can make the selection process a breeze and simplify decision-making.

While there is a wide range of literature on educational philosophy, it is important to consider a few fundamental principles when making a decision. These may include identifying how your children learn most effectively, determining the necessary subjects to study, and deciding on the approach or perspective from which they should be taught. Ultimately, your educational beliefs will play a crucial role in selecting the most suitable method and curriculum.

Top Homeschooling Educational Philosophies, Methods, & Curriculums

*Links are included to curriculums and resources below. Some of these links include paid content links.

The Traditional Method -

The approach used in this method resembles that of traditional public school settings, where teachers impart knowledge to students who then absorb it. The main goal of the curriculum is to equip children with the necessary skills to pursue their individual life objectives. Various resources such as textbooks, workbooks, videos, computer programs, tests, and grading systems may be utilized.

Curriculum/ Information:

Abeka, BJU Press, Saxon Math, JacKris Publishing

Pros:

Relatively simple to follow and implement
Promotes independent learning
Utilizes scope and sequence
Includes quizzes and tests to identify comprehension and mastery

Cons:

lacking in support for different learning styles
places emphasis on collecting facts, rather than learning through tangible hands on experiences
If you have multiple children, each age will be doing separate things instead of learning together as a family

Example:

homeschool, homeschool curriculum, autistic homeschool, special needs homeschool, ADHD homeschool, homeschool sensory

Abeka Traditional Homeschool Curriculum Set

The Classical Method -

This method separates learning into three phases, broken down and focused on natural age development. It follows the five tools of learning, known as the Trivium. These are Reason, Record, Research, Relate and Rhetoric.

The initial stage, known as the Grammar stage, is designed for students in K-6th grade. It focuses on memorization and laying the groundwork for reading, writing, spelling, math, and Latin studies. Following this, the Dialect stage, tailored for 7th-8th graders, emphasizes research, study, and critical thinking based on acquired knowledge. This phase aims to cultivate logic, speech, writing, and critical thinking skills by exploring the underlying reasons and methods behind the subjects being taught. Lastly, the Rhetoric stage targets learners from 9th to 12th grade. Here, students are expected to showcase their proficiency by effectively writing, engaging in discussions, and applying their learning to real-life situations.

Curriculum/ Information:

The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer, Classical Conversations, Classical Academic Press, The Story of the World

Pros:

Brings connections to all subject areas combined
Teaches the application of writing, researching, thinking, and speaking skills to all areas of life
Designed to follow the learner's natural stages of development

Cons:

Strong emphasis on memorization
Teacher Intensive
Strong emphasis on ancient languages
Less emphasis on math and sciences

Example:

The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer

The Charlotte Mason Method -

This method is based on the teachings of Charlotte Mason, who emphasized the importance of the child being a whole person. Learning involves their whole selves and their lives, promoting character and good habits. School should be enjoyable and not only focused on the fundamentals of reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Her lessons include nature studies, the lessons are more brief, gaining knowledge and understanding through experiences and exploration and not just reading. Lessons may include brief reading, writing, or math, preferably introduced through chores, cooking, or nature walks.

Curriculum / Information:

Modern Miss Mason: Discover How Charlotte Mason's Revolutionary Ideas on Home Education Can Change How You and Your Children Learn and Grow Together by Leah Boden, Charlotte Mason's Original Homeschooling Series by Charlotte Mason

Pros:

Promotes Learning through play
Strongly promotes creativity and spending time in nature
Engages learners through active participation and hands-on learning
Learning includes real life experiences as well as traditional
learning
Less busy work
Matures with the natural development of the learner as they grow and can comprehend more

Cons:

Less focus on science and math, favoring more art and literature
Requires more planning by parents, to ensure they are covering each subject area through books and resources
May potentially cause gaps in learning

Examples:

Modern Miss Mason

by Leah Boden

The Unit - Study Method -

This method utilizes a common theme to teach a variety of topics around, instead of teaching subjects in separate courses. It is a hands-on learning method that promotes creativity, and can be tailored to meet the needs of a large family with multiple learners.

By connecting different disciplines, students are able to see the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Through this approach, students engage in hands-on learning experiences that encourage creativity and critical thinking. By exploring topics through a multidisciplinary lens, learners are able to make connections between different subjects and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

One of the key advantages of this method is its flexibility. It can easily be adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners, making it an ideal choice for families with multiple children at different grade levels. This approach allows for personalized learning experiences that cater to individual interests, strengths, and learning styles.

Furthermore, interdisciplinary teaching fosters collaboration and communication skills as students work together to explore complex topics from various perspectives. It also promotes a more holistic approach to education, encouraging students to think critically and creatively across different disciplines.

Overall, this method offers a rich and engaging learning experience that not only enhances academic knowledge but also nurtures essential skills for success in the 21st century.

Curriculum/ Information

Farm and Ranch Based Study Unit: An Education Companion by Laura Holmgren, The Weaver Curriculum by Rebecca L. Avery, Notgrass

Pros:

Studies may be pre-planned or created on the learner's interests
Individualized learning - Can be tailored to your Special Learner easily.
Promotes creativity
Offers a more natural way to learn
Can be budget friendly, by utilizing the local library
Can meet the needs of large families with learners in different comprehension levels
Relates subjects and information to a context, which promotes retention

Cons:

Requires planning and creativity
Assessing mastery and learning may be difficult
Risk for gaps in learning, if not meticulous in planning to ensure full educational scope and sequence

Example:

Farm & Ranch Based Study Unit

by Laura Holmgren

The Relaxed/ Eclectic Homeschooling Method -

"One size does not fit all. Some of the most brilliant, creative people I know did not do well at school. Many of them didn't discover what they could do- and who they were- until they'd left school and recovered from their education." -Ken Robinson

This approach involves a combination of various approaches. Our learners are unique, and in many cases one style does not meet all of their needs. This method combines what works to meet their needs. It is very flexible, and can range from textbook-based to online learning.

This method can support any style learner, and is supported by evidence that education should be customized to fit the learner. Many homeschoolers don't adhere to one style and schedule. This method allows you to relax and establish your own pace and content.

Curriculum/ Information

As previously highlighted, the curriculum is a unique blend that draws from a diverse range of styles and methodologies. This fusion of different educational approaches and techniques creates a rich tapestry of learning experiences for students. By integrating various styles, the curriculum aims to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education that caters to the diverse needs and learning preferences of individuals. This approach not only enhances the depth and breadth of knowledge but also fosters a more holistic understanding of the subject matter. Students are encouraged to explore connections between different styles, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the subject matter. This innovative approach to curriculum design reflects a commitment to excellence and ensures that students are equipped with a broad skill set that prepares them for success in an ever-evolving world..

Textbooks

For math, you may use a textbook such as Masterbooks, Math Mammoth. (Both of these have come highly recommended on several homeschool facebook groups, and we utilize Masterbooks with success.)

For Literature, History, and Science, Unit Studies may work best. We utilize Beautiful Feet literature based curricula for history, as they provide a fun and engaging story to tie history studies into.

Hands-on/Manipulatives

For children that struggle with reading the Orton-Gillingham approach has been helpful, as it is tailored to help those with dyslexia and dysgraphia. For more information on the Orton-Gillingham approach, click here.

Online classes are an option as well with resources such as:

Outschool

Khan Academy

Time4Learning

Pros:

Excellent method for special learners, those with Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other modified learning needs
Flexible to meet the needs to large families with multiple children to be able to learn together
Can be budget friendly, as your local library can be utilized for many resources
Lessons can be pre-planned to meet the needs of each individual learner, where they are at
Can include online classes such as Outschool, to supplement areas for support or include electives

Cons:

May require planning a creativity

Example:

Math Mammoth

by Maria Miller

The Literature Based Method -

This method relies on using high-quality literature and interesting books to teach core subjects. Books may include biographies, autobiographies, original documents and historical fiction. Science may be taught through children's books, journals, or chapter books. Overall, the goal is to integrate books that are characterized by literacy excellence and whose authors are respected.

Curriculum/Information

Beautiful Feet Books, Learning Language Arts Through Literature, Sonlight

Pros:

Adaptable
Exposes learners to well written literature
Adds fun reading to areas such as history, to engage learners who like to read

Cons:

Difficult for learners who prefer a hands-on approach
Difficult to assess mastery in some subjects
Requires more planning

Example:

Beautiful Feet Series-

Abraham Lincoln

by Ingri & Edgar Parin d'Aulaire

The Unschooling Method -

"Children learn from anything and everything they see. They learn wherever they are, and not just in special learning places. We learn to do something by doing it. There is no other way." - John Holt

This method is also referred to as natural learning or delight-direct learning, and does not adhere to any particular curriculum or scheduled plan. Founded by John Holt, unschoolers believe that children will best learn academics in the same manner that they learn other skills like walking, which is naturally. It does not mean they are not taught or educated, it simply means that parents don't use formal lesson plans or curriculum. Learners are encouraged to follow their interests, and learning occurs through life experiences. The whole world is a classroom, and children are naturally curious.

Curriculum/ Information:

How Children Learn by John Holt, The Unschooling Handbook by Mary Griffith

Tynker - coding website for kids that enjoy video games

Pros:

Requires minimal planning
Less frustration for learners
Fosters creativity and encourages discipleship between children and parents

Cons:

Lacks Structure
Difficult to identify mastery in any subject areas
May create learning gaps

Example/ Resource:

How Children Learn

by John Holt

The Montessori Method -

This method was created by Maria Montessori, an Italian physician. In this type of setting, children choose their work activities and learn through their senses of seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, touching, and movement. Parents provide guidance and support, and access to a large option of learning materials. Knowledge is developed naturally in a self-paced way.

This method discourages televisions and computers, especially for younger children. Learning is errorless.

Curriculum/Information:

Practical guide to the Montessori Method at Home by Julia Palmorola, Autism The Montessori Way: A Practical Guide to Help the Children who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Learn Using Montessori Inspiration by Rachel Peachey

Pros:

Supports the needs of the individual learner
Aids in developing at the pace of the learner

Cons:

May create learning gaps
Difficult in identifying mastery in subject areas

Example:

Practical Guide to the Montessori Method at Home: With more than 100 activity ideas from 0 to 6

by Julia Palmarola

The Waldorf Method -

This method is based on Australian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, who believed that educating the whole child was the ultimate priority. Younger children are encouraged to focus on arts, crafts, music, and nature. Older children are encouraged to develop self-awareness, independence, and reasoning skills.

Standard textbooks are not encouraged, and children are instructed to create their own books. This method is opposed to computers and television, as these negatively impact creativity and well-being.

Curriculum/Information

Understanding Waldorf Education: Teaching from the Inside Out by Jack Petrash, The Kingdom of Childhood: Introductory Talks on Waldorf Education by Rudolf Steiner

Pros:

Children learn at their developmental level
Can be tailored to meet the needs of the individual learner
Promotes creativity

Cons:

Difficult to identify mastery of specific subjects
May present gaps in subject learning

Example:

Understanding Waldorf Education: Teaching from the Inside Out

By Jack Petrash

Additional resources for Special Learners- Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing, Dylexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia

Math for Dyscalculia -

Mathcraft - utilizes manipulatives to help learn math

MathLink Cubes - manipulatives for math

Curricula Tailored for Autistic, Dyslexic & ADHD learners:

Personalize It

When it comes to homeschooling, the freedom to choose the method that best suits your family's dynamics and needs is truly a remarkable aspect of this educational approach. This flexibility allows parents, especially working moms like yourself, to tailor the learning experience to accommodate their unique circumstances. In your case, juggling work responsibilities and supporting children with ADHD adds an extra layer of complexity to the homeschooling journey.

Opting for the eclectic method, which combines various educational philosophies and approaches, is a strategic choice that aligns with the diverse learning styles and requirements of your AuDHD kids. This method enables you to draw from a wide range of resources, curricula, and teaching techniques to create a personalized and effective learning environment. By blending elements from different educational ideologies, you can cater to the individual strengths and challenges of each child, fostering a holistic approach to their academic and personal development.

Navigating the homeschooling landscape as a working mom with ADHD requires a delicate balance of organization, creativity, and patience. The eclectic method empowers you to adapt your teaching strategies based on your children's evolving needs and your own unique circumstances. It allows for a dynamic and responsive educational experience that can be tailored to address the specific challenges and strengths that come with homeschooling children with ADHD.

In conclusion, the beauty of homeschooling lies in the freedom to choose an approach that resonates with your family's dynamics and values. Embracing the eclectic method not only provides a flexible framework for accommodating your working schedule and your children's ADHD needs but also fosters a rich and personalized learning journey that celebrates the diversity of educational experiences.

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