How to choose a curriculum for your family

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As homeschooling has grown over the years, so has the curriculum options, especially with the help of the internet. Here are some resources to explore.

• Curriculums R-12
• Maths, Science, Technology & Accounting
• Books, Language & Arts
• Free resources
• 2nd hand
• Afrikaans

Tips to choose!

With so many home education options the choice of a curriculum can be overwhelming. The challenge is to find a product that meets the need of each child. There are many advice from homeschool parents in choosing a curriculum. Here are a few tips in choosing a product for your family:

1. Think about your goals for your family and each child. Why are you homeschooling and what do you want to achieve in your children? What are your family circumstances?
   
   
2. Explore different homeschool approaches. How do you think children learn? Do they need a teacher and textbooks (traditional approach) or can you trust them to direct their own learning (unschooling) ? Or maybe a bit of both?
   
   
3. Think about your child's learning style and interest.
   
   
4. Do they learn through hands-on activities or listening or pictures? What delights them? What do they struggle with? Consider homeschool consultants like Martie du Plessis from Dynamis.
   
   
5. Doing some research. The internet has a lot of information on different products. Join a support group and have a look at a variety of homeschool material other homeschoolers use. Especially homeschoolers who have tried and tested different products themselves. They can give valuable advice on the pros and cons. Do not be influenced by one person's enthusiasm. Visit a homeschool expo.
   
   
6. Think about your budget. The most expensive product are not necessarily the best. There are a lot of free resources on the internet. Just buy the essentials. Refrain from buying the whole package grade 1-12 even if it a super special deal.
   
   
7. Implement. There will always be other great programs on the market, but give yourself time to get comfortable with the product you purchased. Make adjustment to fit your child's needs. If it looks like the curriculum was really the wrong choice, don't feel like a failure. Change and know you are one step closer to finding the curriculum which is right for your child!

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