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Fun Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I love sharing other tips and resources like homeschool science ideas for K – 2 that we used for Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum.

I have some fun and creative ways to keep science fun.

It’s important to adopt a philosophy for how you are going to teach science, not just at this age but throughout your homeschooling journey.

Your method changes of course as your children grow, but some foundational things should never change.

Fun Homeschool Science Ideas for K - 2

For example, during the K – 2 years, I think books should be used as guides and for the littles to poke their nose in them after they have had their delight of hands-on activities.

Next, look at this list of fun things to do with your younger budding scientist.

6 Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2

Science in the younger years shouldn’t be hard, but should be hands-on, fun, and engaging. Too, play learning is a huge part of the natural development of children at these stages. I think you’ll love using an idea or two I have here.

National Geographic STEM Science Kit - 15+ Experiments, Crystal Growing, Volcano Kit, Dig Kits & Gemstones for Kids - Amazon Exclusive

I started putting together my science kits but have used wonderful science kits from the Young Scientists Series and Amazon Science Kits.

Sometimes, it’s just nice having the option when you have no time to have premade kits.

Christian Liberty Nature Reader Book 1 (Christian Liberty Nature Readers)

Then, all of my boys read the Christian Liberty Nature Readers at this age.This colorful reader will introduce students to God's marvelous creation and reinforce phonics principles. Students will also learn beginning vocabulary skills as he is exposed to new words. A glossary of terms is also provided at the end.

Photo Credit: sciencebob.com

Great collection of Science Experiments for home and school.

Too, activities and books at this age do not have to be expensive either. Look at this website Science Bob, which have activities listed to do at home all laid out for you.

Photo Credit: www.agirlandagluegun.com

the science box:

I love how The Girl and a Glue Gun made her own science kits and used the Science Bob website.

Photo Credit: www.msnucleus.org

MATH/SCIENCE NUCLEUS

Then also look at Msnucleus website because it has free workbooks to download along with activities listed on the site too. Nice!

The Magic School Bus - Chemistry Lab

Great hands on learning and educational science STEM kit for boys and girls which encourages STEM learning for ages 5+.

I loved this series because they spanned a few grades and I could get my money's worth out of these activities.

More Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2

Look at these other ideas:

  • Check out a hands-on museum.
  • Check out science picture books at the library.
  • Check out your library to see if they loan out educational toys and things like microscopes. Our library back home had all kinds of neat things to rent.
  • Check out science videos/dvds/ at the library. They may be older but still good.
  • Check out the free science coloring pages too .

Science at this age is all about examining a tree, looking under a log, investigating a pond, start a birding journal, growing a bean, going on nature walks, going to the zoo, setting up an aquarium and instead of planting a whole garden, which sounded like too much energy when I was sleep deprived, we grew a few veggies in a pot on the back porch.

Homeschool Science Ideas for K - 2

It had just the same ewwww and awwww factor as a garden when we grew tomatoes and a few other veggies in a pot.

Science at this age doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to consume their interests and stir their sense of wonder.

More Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2

Homeschool Science Ideas for K - 2
Homeschool Science Ideas for K - 2 @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fun felt anatomy activity which is major organs of the human body labeled. Also, I have this Human Body Crafts page for more hands-on ideas. And this Beautiful Human Body Lapbook and Fun Unit Study.

This activity makes your anatomy lessons reusable and self-correcting.

In total there are seventy-eight main organs within the human body.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

While there are many organs that are important for the body to function well there are 5 major organs in the human body that are considered vital for survival.

About the Major Organs of the Body

They are the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, and liver. 

Skin is also a major (and the largest) organ that happens to be on the outside of your body.

Other important organs that you might include are the spleen, stomach, small and large intestines, bladder, and gallbladder.

The trachea is not considered an organ on its own, rather it is part of the breathing system, connected to the lungs.

You can incorporate as many or as few of these organs in your own felt body as you like.

Next, look at some of these resources for learning about the human body.

16 Human Body Books & Hands-on Resources

Add a few of these fun resources whether you do a couple of lesson plans about the human body or a unit study.

The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body

One of the resources we used as a reference for this activity was The Way We Work, it covers a lot of interesting topics on the human body.

Medical Torso Human Body Model Anatomy

Vivid Human torso organ structure: 15 Pcs Removable Organs including: Torso, Brain (2-part), Heart, Esophagus and Aorta, Lungs (4-part), Cranial Cap, Stomach, Diaphragm, Liver, pancreas and spleen, small and large intestine. The torso structure showing the relative position, morphological features, anatomy of the head, neck and internal organs, especially the respiratory, digestive, urinary and nervous systems.

Human Organs Shape Silicone Molds 8 Pc

[HUMAN ORGANS SILICONE MOLD]: 8 Pcs Human Organs Mold With Different Shapes, Include 1 Human Heart Mold, 1 Brain Silicone Mold, 1 Liver Mold, 1 Intestinal Mold, 1 Lung Mold, 1 Stomach Mold, 1 Brain Stem Mold, 1 Kidney Mold.

Ooze Labs: Visible Human Body with Squishable Organs

This human body with squishable organs is another great way to identify the organs and become familiar with their layout in the body, it has that gross factor that so many kids love.

Human Body Model for Kids 8PCS Mini Body Parts

8PCS Human Organ Figures Set:Human organ anatomy parts display model children learning toy include small intestine, large intestine, lung, brain, stomach, heart, liver, kidney. Suitable for boys and girls over 6 years old,good for brain ability and imagination.

Anatomy (Quickstudy Academic)

Complete labeled illustrations of over 1,400 anatomical identifications.Loaded with beautifully illustrated diagrams clearly and concisely labeled for easy identification.

Basher Science: Human Body: A Book with Guts!

Basher Science: Human Body, A Book with Guts! Created & illustrated by Simon Basher, written by Dan Green

From the best-selling team that brought you The Periodic Table, Physics, Biology, and Astronomy comes a topic that's close to our hearts-literally! Meet the characters and processes that that keep the human body chugging along. From the basic building blocks like Cell, DNA, and Protein, to Bones, Muscles, and all of the fun-loving Organs, readers will cozy up with the guys on the inside. Trust us-Liver has never looked better!

Heart Anatomy Poster - LAMINATED

High-quality 3 MIL LAMINATION for added durability

Tear Resistant

Human Heart Anatomy Floor Puzzle

HUMAN ORGANS LEARNING: Marvel at the rich complexities of the human heart muscle! Every piece has a unique shape designed to outline each major part of the heart organ, making these an exciting challenge to assemble. Each puzzle includes an Anatomy Reference Guide, so you can learn as you build!

Fixed Bones X-Rays, Black/White, 14 Pieces,

  • Authentic x-ray images
  • Works with any light source or light table)
  • Matching facture card
  • Detailed teaching guide

4 Pack - Anatomical Poster Set - Laminated - Muscular, Skeletal, Ligaments of the Joints, Anatomy of the Spine

  • Set of 4 Posters Made in the USA
  • Posters are 18" x 24” in size
  • High-quality 3 MIL lamination for added durability
  • Tear Resistant

My First Book About the Brain (Dover Science For Kids Coloring Books)

Discover the workings of the body's most complex organ! How does the brain control the rest of the body? How does it enable the senses to function, regulate speech, affect balance, and influence sleep and dreams? These 25 illustrations to color explain every aspect of the brain's important jobs, from communicating with the central nervous system to retaining memories. Suitable for ages 8–12.

Skull Anatomy Coloring Book: Incredibly Detailed Self-Test Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book

Enjoy This Coloring Book with 34 Beautiful Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Pages.

The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book Provides A Means Of Learning About The Structure And Function Of The Human Skull Anatomy Through A Process Of Coloring-By-Directions.

Coloring The Human Skull Anatomy And Its Nerves Is The Most Effective Way To Study The Structure And Functions Of Human Skull Anatomy. You Assimilate Information And Make Visual Associations With Key Terminology When Coloring In The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book, All While Having Fun.

1 Pair Plastic Skeleton Hands

Fall is a grea time to grab a set of hands at Dollar Tree but also here is a pair if you're doing a unit study and need one now.

Circulatory System Poster

This poster makes a great reference and can be used with older children to help them add more detail to their project.

The Circulatory System (Your Body Systems: Blastoff! Readers

Our bodies contain a super highway of blood vessels that carry nutrients, waste, and much more from our heads to our toes. This network is the circulatory system! Beginning with a deep breath in, this fact-filled title uses easy-to-follow text and diagrams to allow readers to dive inside the bodys circulatory system!

The human body is a complex being made up of systems that keep us alive and moving! In this series, readers will dive into the bodys systems though engaging, leveled text and related diagrams that follow the parts and functions of each system. Get a microscopic view inside the body with A Closer Look, and put new knowledge into action with a hands-on activity. Check out what is happening inside the body with each title!

Also, look at these other activities to learn about the human body.

More Human Body Crafts

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Finally, look at this fun felt anatomy activity.

Felt Anatomy Activity – Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled

The felt is sturdy and will hold up for a semester or years to come so that you can continue to add to it or use it in different ways.

I like that this is a self-correcting activity.

Your child can place everything where they think it goes and then check it against a diagram and correct anything that might need it. Much more fun than a boring old worksheet don’t you think?

Even if you do not consider yourself an artist or crafty you can make this or help your child make it! I am going to walk you through easy peasy steps.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

You will need:

  • Tan felt
  • 6-8 additional felt colors
  • Scissors
  • Cardstock
  • Pen or marker
Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

First, start by just drawing the top half of a stick figure using a pencil onto your tan felt.

I started with a really large piece of felt (12×18) for the body to make sure I had enough room for the organs.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled

And I cut mine so that the body was almost 15” long but you can make yours larger or smaller.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Once you are happy with your stick figure, you can fill the body out more, rounding out the head and making wider outlines for the arms, neck, and torso.

Don’t worry about any misdrawn lines, this is going to be the back.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Cut out the body.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Now find a diagram with the major organs or whatever body system you want to make and cut your organs out of different colors or shades of felt.

You just need to imitate the general outline.

I did not worry too much about proportions, depending on the age of your child and your skill level you may or may not want to require more precise dimensions.

You may estimate the sizes and then trim down each one to be sure it fits in the body you made.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Add additional organs beyond the major ones if you like.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Place your body outline on a large tray.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Have your child begin layering on the organs in the correct place using google or your favorite reference book.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Type up the names of each organ, or better yet have your child do it to practice typing, formatting, and to familiarize them with the names.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Cut out each one in a small strip to use for labeling.

Now they can begin adding labels to the correct spots.

Put everything into a ziplock baggie to keep and use at a later date.

Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity

Easy and Fun Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have an easy and fun who is Geronimo Stilton rodent notebook page. I’ll be adding more activities for the series of Geronimo Stilton books.

The series of books are delightful and cute, but parents and families have mixed reviews.

Since I don’t encourage a lot of formal writing in the early years, but I do encourage tons of reading, I love these books.

Easy and Fun Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

So, this easy free printable is geared toward the same ages as the book which is 7 to 10 years old.

But between you and I, it’s such a fun series that your older reluctant readers will be drawn in by the humor.

In addition, I wanted the printable simple so that you could either introduce a younger reader or a reluctant reader to the books.

Besides, as I mentioned I don’t want your young children thinking that tons of writing needs to always be associated with reading.

Moreover, read my post here 10 Fun Things You Can Teach Using Geronimo Stilton Books to help your child use the notebooking page.

Geronimo Stilton Books

Too, I was first introduced to the books a few years back when I was looking for a series for younger kids in our group.

And I was pleasantly surprised by all the adventures and mouse action in the Geronimo Stilton series.

Too, it took me a bit to sort out who is the writer and how the series unfolds.

However, let me share a few things to make your search for this easier.

First, Geronimo Stilton is the editor of a newspaper.

The books have colorful fonts and pictures. And of course he spends part of his time solving mysteries, chasing adventure and satisfying his love for cheese rinds.

And as the Scholastic website says, “Geronimo Stilton is the publisher of The Rodent’s Gazette, Mouse Island’s most famouse newspaper.”

The series is written by an Italian author, Elisabetta Dami, but there are many spinoffs now. However, Geronimo Stilton is the original series.

Easy and Fun Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

You can read about how Ms. Dami created Geronimo Stilton.

Author of Geronimo Stilton

I found Ms. Dami’s thoughts moving on how she created a shy, tender and clumsy mouse.

And another fun reason I really adore the books is that there are many references to geography and history because of Ms. Dami’s passion for archaeology.

So, these make for great supplements for your elementary kids to my history or science unit studies.

In addition, be careful when you choose the books. There are many spinoffs and the books are in black and white.

The original series have color pictures with colorful words and fonts.

Add in some fun bookmarks and your young reader will love these books.

Too, if you’re reading these fun books aloud, grab the read aloud tracking form.

Look at these other tips for books and reading you’ll like.

Books and Games for Beginner Readers

Another point I want you to know about the book is that there are funny spellings.

Also, there are play on words or unique spellings where there is substitution with some form of the word mouse.

For example, instead of the text fabulous, it’s written fabu-mous. This can be confusing for the young reader or for some they find the humor in it. Again, this depends on the maturity of your reader.

I think for some 7-year-olds the unique spellings would be too much.

By the way, Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye is the first book in the series if you want to start from the beginning, but it’s not necessary in this series.

However, you can use that as a teachable moment to explain the right word.

Of course if you’re reading aloud to a younger reader, he may not understand the play on the word. I’ve found that such saying the correct word and moving on is best.

Easy and Fun Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

Soon, your child will understand the funny passages. Like I mentioned I have more ideas coming to use for some of the books.

Which book is your child’s favorite? And old is your reader?

Grab the Free Notebooking Page Below

35 Simple But Powerful US History Homeschool Curriculum Resources K to 12

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’ve rounded up 35+ simple, but powerful US history homeschool curriculum and resources for kindergarten to high school.

Whether you’re trying to fill a state requirement, or you want your child to have a well-rounded view of U.S. history, I know you’ll love these resources.

First, because I have homeschooled for over 20+ years, I have some great tips for you.

35 Simple But Powerful American History Homeschool Resources K to 12

Look at these 10 ways to teach U.S. history out of the box. Besides, not every kid responds to an all-in-one i.e. boxed curriculum.

US History Homeschool Curriculum Tips

How to Teach U.S. History Out of the Box

  1. Instead of trying to learn about all American History in one year, focus on one period through the eyes of a founding father or another historical colorful character. We did this when we examined the life of Wyatt Earp. Look at Free American History Lapbook – The Old West Through the Life of Wyatt Earp. This idea works for multiple ages because you can bring out much about the time period in American history and add fun hands-on activities too.
  2. In addition, when my first son reached high school, we learned about the FBI. It was a fun way to focus on learning about American government based on a topic he was interested in. So, take a topic or key event which piques your teen’s interest and build a study around it. Look at my FBI unit study.
  3. For older kids, study American history through original sources. Reading letters between friends and family helps to make what could be a boring time period in history come alive. Look at 7 Things to Try When a Homeschool History Curriculum Isn’t Coming Together (Hint: Try a Primary Source or Two).
  4. Learning through movies is another way to make learning any period in history an event to look forward to. Look at 7 Educational Movies for Kids About Westward Expansion.
  5. Another slant is for art lovers. Learn about history through art. Look at Art History for Kids.

5 More Ways to Teach U.S. History Out of the Box

  1. Also, learning U.S. history through lapbooks is a fun way to learn important events. Look at my Free 27 Week American History Study through Lapbooking In Chronological Order
  2. One more fun slant is to learn about historical costumes. Look at Bring History To Life With Historical Costumes: Fun, Fashion and Unforgettable
  3. An especially fun way to bring meaning to history is to use a living book as a spine. A living book is a term used by Charlotte Mason to mean a book written in a story form which engages a reader as opposed to a boring textbook. Use a living book as a spine or the main book and add activities based on the reading. Toward the bottom of the article, I listed some living books which could work as a history spine.
  4. Another engaging and fun way to learn about history is through cooking recipes from the different states. Kids of any age love learning what other kids’ eat and how they live. Look at my post make chili when doing a state study on Texas.
  5. This last slant is to learn U.S. history through creating a timeline. Whether you want to focus on events or people, a timeline is a great visual of American history. Look at my post How to Teach With an Easy DIY American History Timeline.

Resources K to 12 US History Homeschool Curriculum

Next, I’ve rounded up tons of resources to give you a variety of options.

For me every year was different when I taught American history. Some years we dived deeper, other years not so much.

There are a variety of resources below from audio to living books to lapbooks.

Also, the resources and books or literature are listed from easiest or for the youngest learner up to high school.

Of course, grade level is subjective. You’ll want to mix and match history resources to make learning American history meaningful.

Further, readers mature at different rates. What is sensitive to one family or reader you and I know will be different for another.

So be sure you check out the readers because where possible and best I can remember, I give you a heads up if something may be sensitive.

As always, you’re responsible for previewing resources beforehand. I know you will.

Kindergarten to Sixth Grade American History Resources

Beginning with kindergarten to sixth grade U.S. history resources, variety is key.

Especially for young kids like prek and kindergarten, reading aloud, coloring, creating crafts, and activities helps to lay a foundation for what is American history.

Do not forget that even older kids whose introduction to history has been boring could still benefit from activities, reading aloud, and games.

Look below for kindergarten to sixth grade American history resources roundup.

1. American History Dover Books for Coloring and Paper Crafts

Whether you have a younger or older child, Dover coloring pages have been a staple in our homeschool for years.

They’re not just ordinary coloring books, but coloring books that teach facts while having some creative fun.

Look at this United States Coloring Book.

Also, Dover has paper models for hands-on history. You don’t want to miss these fun ways to learn history.

Look at these Stand Up Presidents and White House Cut & Assemble.

2. American Kids in History Series

This next series is a fun slant on American history.

American Kids in History series is a series that just doesn’t use text but games, activities, and recipes to learn about Americans.

One or two of these books would make for a great mini unit study.

3. Early American History by Beautiful Feet

This next curriculum which I loved and used when my kids were younger and all the way through high school is by Beautiful Feet Literature.

The Early American History Jumbo Primary pack for first to third grade introduced my kids to American history makers through beautiful literature as opposed to a boring text book.

4. Stories of Great Americans For Little Americans

This next series Stories of Great Americans for Little Americans was written in 1895 at about a second grade level and reprinted and updated.

The illustrations are beautiful and little Americans are introduced to Boone, Washington, Franklin, and more. Also, Memoria Press reprinted it.

5. Magic Tree House Series

Another series The Magic Tree House has the Magic Tree House Books 21-24 Boxed Set which is American History.

The Magic Tree House series is a beloved set for teaching history for all time periods, but it has the American history set for the youngest readers.

This series aims for first to fourth grade.

History for Kids

6. The d’Aulaire Biographies

The first time I read one of the d’Aulaire historical books with my young kids, we were hooked.

Look at some of the titles to choose from.

7. American Story Series

Additionally, American Story is a beautiful series which has been around for a long time and for reason. The literature and illustrations are beautiful.

It is a secular approach to history, but not anything you can’t tweak one way or the other to your worldview.

You’ll love all the titles in the series. Here are a few below.

8. Who was? What was? Where is? Series

There is a reason this much loved Who was What was Where is series has close to 200 books. It was a hit when this series started.

Although it can be hard to find a grade level, this series is good for kids up to sixth grade. However, it aims for third to fifth grade.

But don’t let that stop you if you have kids a bit younger or older.

It’s a much loved series with so many topics and titles which makes it a great multiple age series of books to teach about important American history events and persons.

9. America First: One Hundred Stories From Our Own History by Lawton B. Evans

Then next America First: One Hundred Stories From Our Own History by Lawton B. Evans approaches history by using stories or the living history approach I love for all ages.

10. My America Series

This My America series is a fictional series aimed at elementary aged kids.

And My America series is a spinoff of the Dear America series and written in the same diary format.

From best I can remember there are approximately 20 books or so in the a series. Like the Dear America series, you have many choices of great books.

11. American Girl series

Also, what young girl doesn’t fall in love with Felicity, Kirsten, and Addy from the American Girl books.

I haven’t put my hands on the series in a while, but from best I remember the older versions of the books have a non-fiction section at the back.

There are period crafts and recipes you can add for each theme.

12. Childhood of Famous Americans Series

Then, Childhood of Famous Americans Series was also another life saver for me when the kids were young. It’s a biography series that was originally written in the 1940s.

The series has grown and expanded through the years and reprinted.

This was one of my kids’ favorite series because of the illustrations and short chapters for young readers.

13. History Pockets by Evan-Moor

This next resource, which is History Pockets is such a wonderful hands-on resource that I feel you can use it even for kids in middle school.

Each book comes with a theme. Themed activities such as maps, timelines, minibooks and character descriptions are created for the history pocket.

If your child is not ready to unleash his history creativity and wants something fun, but more laid out he’ll love the themed history pockets.

Again, some of the themes are for sixth grade, so I know older kids will love them too.

FOURTH GRADE HOMESCHOOL CURRICULUM ACTIVITIES

Middle and High School American History Resources

Moving to teaching middle and high school can be challenging unless you have the right resources.

Don’t be afraid to teach American history with resources you have at your finger tips. It’s easier than you think to create a credit worthy course. Look at my tips How to Create a Creditworthy American History Course (& resources)

Look at the resources which can be used for older kids.

14. Paradigm Accelerate Curriculum Worktexts

When I first looked at Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum, I wasn’t sure it would work for us. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it helped my kids to cover some topics we were lacking.

First, PAC booklets are a worktext. A worktext is different from a workbook.

Unlike a workbook, worktext does some teaching right in the workbook. Worktext are great for teaching kids to be independent. You don’t have to do all the teaching.

Usually, some background information along with activities are all built into the lesson plan. It’s like having the textbook and workbook in one spot.

The American History I, America’s Founding Fathers, Events, and Documents (Supplement), are aimed for about eighth grade and American History II is for high school.

15. Guest Hollow High School American History

Guest Hollow is a two year program for high school kids.

If your kids love learning history through literature and good books, they’ll love this program.

16. A History of US Book Series by Joy Hakim

The A History of US series is an usual series that we loved. It’s written in a story form to older students.

The series touts to be for fifth grade to eight grade. I’ve found that even older kids can benefit from the material.

17. Time Travel Adventure with Exceptional Americans Series by Rush Limbaugh

Next, who’d think Rush Limbaugh would have a series of history books, but he does.

What kid or adult (me) wouldn’t love to read about traveling back in time? Historical fiction is a way to also revive a love of history by talking about time travel through history.

The Rush Revere Time Travel Adventure with Exceptional American series is aimed for grades fourth to eighth, but again you know grade levels are subjective. There are five books for now in the series.

18. 19. Modern and Early American History by Beautiful Feet

Beautiful Feet which is one of my favorite homeschool curriculum for living history books and has packs for middle school and high school kids.

The packs can be used anywhere from an advanced 7th grader to high school.

The curriculum has a twist, it’s mixed. It has American history and world history studied together.

This makes sense if you’re trying to connect American history to the bigger picture of how it fits into world history.

20. Dear America series by Scholastic

The Dear America series is for girls. The books are written like diaries looking at events in American history.

Although the book touts for a younger reader closer to a 10 year old girl, I find a few of the elements in some of the books are more suited for an older reader like 14 or 15 years old.

One book mentions something mysterious about a wedding night implying a sexual nature which is not necessary for a young reader.

I mean I have found nothing explicit so far, but feel that innuendo could have been left out if this was for a younger reader.

More US History Homeschool Curriculum

So I am putting this series here more suited for a middle or high school girl.

Multiple Ages Resources And All-in-One

Next, there are many resources which can be used stand alone for teaching history, but there are also resources that make planning easy.

Multiple age resources and all-in-one curriculum are those types of helps.

There are advantages to using an all-in-one.

A few advantages of using laid out curriculum are

  • you have less planning;
  • some of them can be used for multiple ages;
  • sometimes plenty of background information is given which can lessen your prep work; and
  • if you need to track hours, it can be easier to do it with laid out curriculum.

Look at some of these resources below. Some are more scripted than others, but all of them are laid out easier than just using a book.

21. Home School in the Woods

This first one is Home School in The Woods because I loved having more ideas for hands-on history.

Like science, I feel history is better understood and appreciated when it’s hands-on or project based.

Sure it takes longer to do activities, but learning like this sticks.

22. Build Your Library Secular Based

Build Your Library is a secular literature approach to history.

You’ll have to purchase the books and the lesson plans are .pdf, but you can certainly combine kids with this unit study approach

.Also, if you’re trying to build a library this a great way to do it. Build your library is good if you’re trying to teach multiple children and want more of a general guide.

23. Notgrass History Christian Based

If you want a unabashedly Christian curriculum, then you’ll love Notgrass History.

Their history is told in a story form and you’ll love all the options for each grade.

24. U.S. History Secular Based By Blossom and Root

Blossom and Root has U.S. history for elementary and middle school kids. It is a complete secular history unit.

25. Memoria Press Uses a Classical Approach

Memoria Press has guides for first grade to high school and uses a classical approach to teaching U.S. history.

Using great books of the past they paired them with history guides to teach different topics of American history at each level.

26. Hillsdale Free U.S. History Courses

Hillsdale College offers free American history courses in the same

You’ll love the free courses on line.

Hillsdale offers courses from a faith-based approach. As stated on their website: “These free, not-for-credit courses are taught by Hillsdale College faculty and are patterned after the education offered on the Hillsdale College campus.”

27. Truthquest History Christian Based

Truthquest history is a literature-based curriculum which can be used for multiple ages.

Instead of having day to day lesson plans, you’re giving guides for each topic. Using real books, this history is more of a unit study approach. If you want to have a guide, but go down bunny trails this curriculum may work for you.

28. All American History Christian Based by Bright Ideas Press

All American History by Bright Ideas Press is a staple in the homeschool community.

From the site, it says American History is a complete year’s curriculum when combined with the Student Activity Book PDF and Teacher’s Guide. The first volume covers Exploration through 1840.

American History Spines

Living Books, Audio, Video, CD, Online Courses for American History Resources

Last, I’m sharing some other wonderful resources which helps kids with different learning styles and needs. Too, sometimes you need to mix and match as I talked about earlier.

35 Simple But Powerful American History Homeschool Resources K to 12

Too, I want you to understand what is a history spine because it’s a fun, but very practical way to teach a content subject like U.S. History.

A spine is a resource you use as your main reference to teach a subject. A spine refers to a backbone. So it’s a resource which can be a living book or reference book which is the backbone of your course of study.

A spine has many advantages and is different than an all-in-one in many ways.

5 Advantages Of Using a History Spine

  1. When you choose a history spine, you can narrow your focus. Instead of teaching all of American history in broad strokes, sometimes you need a few key events or people for a deeper study.
  2. In addition, you may want to move quicker on topics if your goal is broad strokes. A general history spine instead of day to day laborious lesson plans may fit your needs this year.
  3. A spine like a living book written in story format helps kids young kids to associate what could be abstract to concrete people and events.
  4. In addition, a history spine can be tweaked to fit exactly the needs of your kids, i.e. rabbit trails.
  5. There is no feeling of being behind when studying American history. You’re just at where you’re kids are at. Then you move on when you’re done.

With that being said, in this section, I have included

  • history living books;
  • audio books for those who want to listen and not so much read;
  • online free courses in video form;
  • and videos using public domain books.

Many years I preferred to use books that were classic and written pre politically correct.

History has the good, the bad, and the really ugly and I wanted to convey all those parts to my kids as I felt they could understand it.

I’d love to rewrite history in some places, but I can’t. So I explained to my kids how some people in the past and why some in the present may still feel one way.

Explaining point of views becomes important while using any history resource.

29. The Rainbow Book of American History by Earl Schenck Miers 

The Rainbow Book of American History was published in the 1950s and is a book you can use for a spine.

Remember that vocabulary and terminology are different for that time; keep that in mind if you use a classic book.

DIY American History Resources

30. America: The Last Best Hope

America: The Last Best Hope is another series loved by homeschoolers for a spine, but I haven’t used it. But you recognize the name William J. Bennett for his book The Book of Virtues which is a compilation of moral stories.

31. My America Story Book Audio Using Public Domain Books

Well-educated heart has audio of stories from pre-1924 books in the public domain. Your child can listen or read, It’s free.

32. Drive Thru History Adventure Video/DVD Series

This is a fun twist on history. It’s a 12 part video series on history by “visiting” places. Too, it’s offered in DVD form because not everyone has a great internet connection.

He has different time periods, but the American: Columbus to the Constitution is for American history and the whole family can watch and learn.

33. This Country of Ours by H. E. Marshall 

This Country of Ours is another timeless history keeper. We loved the story format of this book and this is one that you could use for multiple ages too. I feel it’s geared more toward elementary to middle school.

34. American History Stories by Mara Pratt

Again American History Stories by Mara Pratt is what I consider a living book approach to history.

It’s a story format and I would use it for younger kids.

I do think an older kid would benefit from it if they haven’t had a good introduction to history.

Big List of U.S. History Curriculum

35. Jim Hodges American History Audio

This next resource is such a fun one.

Whether you want some help for all the reading aloud you’ve been doing or your child learns better by listening and loves stories, you’ll love Jim Hodges Audio Books.

From Ten Girls from History to American History Stories and True Stories of Great Americans for Young Americans and the Modern U.S. History bundle, you’ll find tons of great resources.

More US History Homeschool Curriculum

36. Khan Academy Online Free Videos

When Khan Academy entered the homeschool world it was popular and have gained even more popularity through the years.

Although some teachers used Khan Academy as a stand alone curriculum a lot of homeschoolers supplement with it. Either way you have another option for your learners.

37. Crash Course Online Free Videos

Crash Courses are another favorite of homeschoolers. They too have been around for years with educational videos on many different subjects.

Crash Course has many different history topics you’ll love including the American history section.

This list is by no means the total list of all the resources I’ve been exposed to, but it’s a comprehensive list of homeschool favorites. Pssst! They work.

What US history homeschool curriculum do you like to use for teaching American history to your kids?

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

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How to build elementary homeschool curriculum directly from Amazon is easier than you think.

Whether you’ve homeschooled from the beginning or suddenly have been thrown into homeschooling, you’ll love the flexibility of being able to choose from Amazon.

I love supporting vendors who sell homeschool curriculum, but in person conventions did not happen everywhere this year because of the pandemic.

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

Having an option to build your elementary homeschool curriculum is vital and I made this easy for you by creating lists in my Amazon store.

Also, I have options for middle and high school. Click here for How to Build High School Curriculum Directly From Amazon and here for How to Build Middle School Curriculum Directly From Amazon.

Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

First, the essential subjects that you want to teach in the elementary years are language arts, math, history and science.

Of course this doesn’t mean these are the only ones, but those four are the basis for a solid foundation.

Too, in the elementary years one-to-one tutoring does not take as long as the academic load that homeschooled kids in the upper grades carry. While it’s true a younger child may need more breaks, the workload is still pretty flexible in the elementary years and you have time to add other subjects for enrichment.

Now that you understand the 4 BIG ones as I call them, you also need to know how to break down language arts components.

Here are the components of language arts and based on your child’s age, ability, or level, you need to decide which ones he will need to do.

  • Reading. This includes reading aloud.
  • Phonics. Normally you want to do this until about 4th grade.
  • Spelling. Phonics is the precursor to spelling. Don’t be so quick to teach formal spelling because a child needs input first which phonics does.
  • Penmanship (no this is not composition). This is just what it means, learning how to write. It’s done in the early grades.
  • Composition comes after penmanship and it is about teaching a child how to compose his thoughts.
  • Grammar. Normally you start this in the second or third grade.

Language Arts Curriculum from Amazon

Keep in mind the subjects you cover in the elementary grades are just a rule of thumb.

Because kids can be all over the place on levels, I am giving you the big picture so you know how to choose.

It’s worrisome to not know which subjects to introduce and when to introduce them. I want you to be in the know.

So look at the subjects below based on grade level.

  • If your child is at grades 1 or 2, you want to choose a reading program, a phonics program, and a writing program.
  • If you child is at grades 3 to 4, you want to choose a reading program, a phonics program, a spelling program, a writing program or composition program and a grammar program.
  • If your child is at grades 5 to 6, you want to choose a reading program, a composition program, a spelling program, and a grammar program.
  • Science and history can be as easy as reading a book in the earlier grades and then progress to taking more time like from 3rd grade on.

Curriculum from Amazon

Also, to be sure you’ve covered the bases for subjects, use my checklist for curriculum resources below

You can download an editable copy over at STEP 5A of my free 7 Step Homeschool Planner.

Additionally, I have this super helpful post How to Know What A Homeschooled Child Should Learn Yearly.

Now, look at lists I’ve created for you to give you choices on the different variety of curriculum.

By using the guideline above where I explain what to choose in each grade, you’ll be sure you won’t miss any vital curriculum for a grade.

Homeschool History and Science from Amazon

In addition, history and science are considered core subjects in some states.

Here is the Elementary – History & Geography List and here is the Elementary – Science List.

After you add the Big Four core subjects, you can add other subjects. By starting with the Big Four, you know that you have the essentials covered.

If you have many learners under the age of 7 or 8, then covering the Big Four for the day is solid. As your little ones get older and as you have time, you can add other subjects which interest your kids.

Sometimes lesson plans can be too lofty for the elementary ages, but remember play is still a huge part of the learning day too. There is no need to fill your day with too many subjects.

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

The Big Four subjects a.k.a. language arts, math, science and history are the same ones all the way to High School. There is a lot of years to cover those subjects so include plenty of hands-on activities too.

Elementary Homeschool Curriculum

Look at these other tips I have for you:

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

The beauty of choosing curriculum directly from Amazon is that you not only can meet your kids’ needs, but also meet state guidelines if you have them.

You’re off to a great start this year!