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The Best First Grade Homeschool Curriculum | 7 Tips And Recommendations

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Let’s look at first grade homeschool curriculum recommendations that work for different types of learners and fit different budgets. Also, you’ll love my page Homeschool Curriculum for more ideas.

First grade is such a fun and exciting time when your sweet little baby starts to lose those squeezable cheeks as they get taller and are ready for a bit more structured learning in the important subjects.

The Best First Grade Homeschool Curriculum | 7 Tips And Recommendations

They are also usually working on reading and writing and it’s amazing to watch those little neurons fire in their brains as they’re absorbing and processing so much new information.

They may be learning to read or may be moving from picture books to simple chapter books.

As you know kids learn and grow at different levels not only physically but cognitively as well.

First grade typically brings about learning addition, subtraction, place value, skipping counting, time, shapes, geometry, and multiplication, upper and lowercase letters, storytelling, and punctuation.

I have 7 tips for putting together your own.

We will cover the main subjects, and touch on a few fun extras to make it special.

7 Tips and Recommendations

  1. Find your child’s learning style so that you can help them learn and grow to their greatest potential.
  2. While print can already be challenging it is a good idea to begin cursive instruction early. Even children with writing challenges like dysgraphia find this to be easier than print and they are really ready to pick up new skills at this age.
  3. Stay organized and have materials ready ahead of time, if you are spending 30 minutes scrambling around to find materials while your child waits at the table they will get bored very quickly.
  4. Continue to keep lessons short, extending them just a little longer than their Kindergarten year to make the most of their attention spans- 15 minutes per lesson is generally a good rule of thumb.
  5. Include lots of movement into your day, kids this age have a lot of energy and need to get moving to develop fine and gross motor skills but also it helps with brain function.
  6. If you haven’t started with chapter books for reading aloud incorporate them now, a chapter a day is a wonderful way to begin your morning snuggled up on the couch.
  7. Be sure that you have established a flexible daily routine/schedule so that your child begins to learn what is expected each day but allow for a change of plans when the weather is extra nice or someone is under the weather.
The Best First Grade Homeschool Curriculum | 7 Tips And Recommendations

More First Grade Curriculum Tips

Best Homeschool Curriculum By Grade

Finally, look at these recommendations.

1st Grade Homeschool Curriculum Recommendations

The main focus at this age is math and reading along with social and important social-emotional skills.

Horizons 1st Grade Math Student Books 1 & 2

While it requires a bit of prep and can’t be considered ‘open and go’ this is a very solid math program, especially for the early years

Photo Credit: www.goodandbeautiful.com

Simply Good and Beautiful Math 1

The Good And The Beautiful offers a free math curriculum to print out yourself that covers an entire year of lessons. While they do recommend a purchase of a math box with manipulatives you can source these items elsewhere or make them yourself.

First Grade Math with Confidence Bundle: Instructor Guide & Student Workbook

Math educator Kate Snow gives parents the tools they need to teach math with confidence. This scripted, open-and-go program leads parents and instructors step-by-step through teaching all the concepts first-graders need to master:

Steck-Vaughn Core Skills Science: Workbook Grade 1

Something like the workbook Steck-Vaughn Core Skills Science is great for open and go learning. It introduces simple and easy to understand concepts in life, earth, and physical science. While just a
workbook can be dry, you can easily incorporate some hands-on experiments to demonstrate what they are learning to make it more exciting and memorable.

The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child: Volume 1: Ancient Times: From the Earliest Nomads to the Last Roman Emperor

This first book in the four volume narrative history series for elementary students will transform your study of history. The Story of the World has won awards from numerous homeschooling magazines and readers' polls―over 150,000 copies of the series in print!

What terrible secret was buried in Shi Huangdi's tomb? Did nomads like lizard stew? What happened to Anansi the Spider in the Village of the Plantains? And how did a six year old become the last emperor of Rome? Told in a straightforward, engaging style that has become Susan Wise Bauer's trademark, The Story of the World series covers the s weep of human history from ancient times until the present. Africa, China, Europe, the Americas ― find out what happened all around the world in long ago times. This first revised volume begins with the earliest nomads and ends with the last Roman emperor. Newly revised and updated, The Story of the World, Volume 1 includes maps, a new timeline, more illustrations, and additional parental aids. This read aloud series is designed for parents to share with elementary school children. Enjoy it together and introduce your child to the marvelous story of the world's civilizations.

Discover! Science 1st Grade Set

Discover! Science incorporates reading, writing, and comprehension skills with suggestions for activities and answer keys. The pages are colorful and inviting, what I really like about this series is that they offer tips for teaching the different learning styles.

DK Workbooks: Geography, First Grade: Learn and Explore

Ideal for ages 6 to 7, this workbook is packed with simple, fun exercises that support the expanding geography skills of first graders. Your child will discover and understand new topics and curriculum-aligned exercises with every page. From the seven continents to countries and their capitals, this activity book will boost your child’s confidence in the field of geography!This first grade workbook unpacks geography concepts through fun activities and exercises. Your child will discover topics like the U.S. and its 50 states, plus their capitals and large cities. They will even learn how to map their neighborhood!

Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary: An Introduction To Earth's Geographical Features For Kids

Welcome to Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary by B.C. Lester Books! This book takes you across the world's main landforms and biomes, each with a colorful illustration accompanied with a child-friendly definition.

What is a mesa? Or an estuary? What is the difference between a swamp and a marsh?

Photo Credit: www.bfbooks.com

Early American History K-3rd - Homeschooling History Pack

Sure to ignite curiosity about our nation's history, this Early American History Through Literature study will take you and your K-3 homeschooling students through the first Indigenous people of the Americas, the Vikings discovery of America, the exploration, colonization, settlement, and establishment of the United States. Spanning 1000 AD to the mid-1800's this course makes teaching this literature-rich curriculum easy and fun!

Carson Dellosa Beginning Traditional Cursive Handwriting Workbook for Kids, Handwriting Practice

Workbook Features:• Ages 6-9, Grade 1-3• 32 pages, 11 inches x 8 ½ inches • Practice writing upper- and lowercase letters, number words, and more in cursive• Learn to form and connect letters together • Includes a lined practice page and an alphabet reference chart

Photo Credit: www.allaboutlearningpress.com

All About Reading Level 1

All About Reading Level 1 Materials Package includes: one Teacher's Manual, one Student Packet (Activity Book, Flashcards, Stickers), and three readers.

Photo Credit: www.abcmouse.com

1st Grade Spelling Words

Here is a great collection of printable lists that cover spelling for 1st grade from CVC words, to high-frequency words, and blends from ABCMOUSE.com

Hasbro Gaming Guess Who? Original, Easy to Load Frame, Double-Sided Character Sheet,2 Player Board Games for Kids

Include fun games like, Guess Who, to develop your child's critical thinking skills, vocabulary, and deductive reasoning.Many games that just seem like fun are wonderful for learning.

Square Soft Pastel Set - 24 Vivid Colors, Easy Blend for Artists

I like to offer new art mediums to younger children who are ready to move on from crayons, like
different types of paper, paint, and even items like oil or chalk pastels to pique their interest.

6 Resources for Making Homeschool High School Science Easy

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I have 6 resources for making homeschool high school science easy. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool High School.

Science has been a subject that we have always tried to add naturally into our day.

Too, I folded it into our unit studies even at the high school level.

However, we do love spending our time reading about history and geography.

So, I wanted to be sure as the boys entered high school that they received more formal training in science.

6 Resources for Making Homeschool High School Science Easy

It didn’t mean we had to give up our hands-on things we were doing with our unit studies, but I wanted to be sure our activities were high school level because I wanted our transcript to reflect that.

Like history, science is a subject that you and your teen need to determine how in depth to cover it.

Though my boys loved science, like me, they had a bent toward history and geography so that did affect their choice as to curriculum.

If you’re a science minded family, its important which science track your teens takes.

Even if your teen is not choosing a career in science, the advantages of covering science at the high school level go far beyond just college or career.

5 Questions Before Purchasing A High School Science Program

Before I mention those advantages for us, look at these things to mull over before you pull the trigger on a high school science program.

  • Do you want to only cover the  major sciences like biology, chemistry and physics?
  • Do you want to cover subjects outside the traditional subjects, like astronomy or botany? Having homeschooled from the beginning, this is what appealed to my sons. They could feed their minds on subjects they were passionate about. So not only does science stir up a deep appreciation for creation, but the logical thought process that science teaches sticks with your child lifelong.
  • Does a Christian or secular view matter?
  • Is any teacher prep involved?
  • What kind of costs are involved for hands-on and lab? We stuck to curriculum that just used items we could find around the house and purchased a few other things like microscopes and lab things, but for the most part, we just used what we had.

Mr. Senior 2013, enjoyed the textbook approach of Apologia during his junior years but when it came to high school, he wanted a change.

He was pursuing some electives like public speaking that he wanted to focus on and writing.

But first, look at some of these how to homeschool high school books.

How to Homeschool High School Books & Resources

How to homeschool high school can be daunting at first. With a little help and these great resources, you’ll be a homeschool pro in no time.

Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don't Know Where to Begin

Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is a real eye-opener on homeschooling. It will alleviate a lot of the anxieties about getting started homeschooling. Reading each chapter’s highlights will give you encouragement, knowledge, guidance, and peace of mind to homeschool with confidence. The best part is that you’ll be educating the person who loves your kids the most in this world--YOU! Armed with the knowledge to make better choices in curriculum will empower you to continue the path of home education. Unlike many books based on one family’s experience, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is also based on Tina’s many years of mentoring hundreds and hundreds of new homeschoolers at live workshops. When you don’t know where to begin Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers equips you to successfully homeschool your children.

Cure the Fear of Homeschooling High School: A Step-by-Step Handbook for Research & Planning

Are you afraid of homeschooling high school? Do you think you’ll ruin your teen’s life? Are you afraid you’ll miss an important requirement for getting into college? Are you confused about credits and coursework? Or are you just downright overwhelmed and don’t even know where to start?

This book will take you step-by-step through the process of planning your child’s high school coursework all the way through to graduation, in such a way that you will KNOW that you are not missing anything! You truly can feel absolutely confident that you are doing the best thing for your child and your family. You can make informed decisions knowing you have done the correct research to do so. You can be FEARLESS!

Planning High School Courses: Charting the Course Toward Homeschool Graduation

Experienced hikers know to never begin a demanding journey without a good map and a strong plan. For homeschooling parents, it’s even more important to establish a solid homeschool plans toward high school graduation.

So, What Are Your Homeschool Plans?

  • Do you know how to homeschool high school?
  • Do you know how to prepare for college?
  • Do you know the high school courses essential to preparing for graduation, college and career?

Essential Electives for Homeschooling High School: How to Craft Courses That Exceed College Expectations

Homeschool Electives are the Secret Sauce for College Admission and Scholarships!

Learn How Homeschool Electives Can Make Teens, Parents, and Colleges Happy!

Homeschool electives are fun! Teens love them because electives involve a lot of what they want to do anyway. Parents love them because a happy teen makes for a happy family! Colleges love them because it helps them understand your teen so they can make good admission and scholarship decisions.

Lee Binz, The HomeScholar, shares the joy of homeschool electives. You will learn strategies to help you choose elective homeschool high school curriculum and document electives colleges will value. Don't put your homeschool in a box. Use electives and let your homeschool soar!

Graduate Your Homeschooler in Style: Make Your Homeschool Graduation Memorable

You’ve worked hard homeschooling your child, and now you’re near the goal line... homeschool graduation. Your plan your graduation takes forethought, not just for the culminating graduation ceremony, but also to ensure your child has accomplished everything you want them to before
leaving the nest.

Too, Apologia had advanced courses like Advanced Physics that I knew we could come back to later if he wanted to pursue science in more depth.

So after reading about the interactive content Switched-on Schoolhouse used, he decided to use SOS Integrated Physics & Chemistry.He enjoyed the video clips, animations and games.

He ended up really liking their courses because they had courses that were outside of the traditional approach and kept science fun for him.

That program was discontinued but I find that 1) Glencoe Science Integrated Physics and Chemistry was similar and used with my second son.

Too, courses like 2) family consumer science are offered. Such practical courses in preparation for adulthood are sometimes not easy to find.

So, my next son didn’t follow a traditional approach either.

Random Efforts Can Pay Off

He liked more of a simplified approach to science and wanted to study only subjects that interested him like the stars.

So we used 3) Lift Up Your Eyes On High: Understanding the Stars (Christian Liberty Press High School Curriculum) .

And he also liked 4) Biology: A Search For Order in Complexity, 2nd Edition.

Too, Christian Liberty Press borrows some of their books from A Beka and Bob Jones.

Then for Mr. Awesome 2015 we also used part of 5) Biology by Bob Jones and then back to Christian Liberty Press for part of Chemistry or it was really by Bob Jones.

Lastly, we loved the straightforward approach of 6) Lifepacs. They are like worktexts which are good for independent learners. We loved Lifepac Biology.

Mr. Senior 2015 stayed on just one or two science providers.

Mr. Awesome 2015 was all over the place on subjects but liked the combinations.

Too, the process of scientific investigation is critical to higher thinking skills and logical thinking ability is a lost art not just among teens, but among adults too.

These are skill sets my boys should have.

So we didn’t follow a traditional approach by a family that would be pursuing a science career.

But we enjoyed having the variety of topics that fed my sons’ curiosity at the high school level,

However, it kept their passion for science.

What has worked for your family or what are you mulling over?

More High School Science Tips

6 Resources for Making Homeschool High School Science Easy @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

10 Key Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum (free printable)

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

Unit study curriculum has ten key benefits. Today, I will identify what is unit study curriculum, how long a unit study should last, and what makes a good unit study curriculum.

Besides identifying what a unit study means, you need to know how to use unit study curriculum with your multiple aged children.

And knowing how to identify what is not a unit study or unit study curriculum keeps you from wasting your time.

First, knowing what is unit study curriculum will help you to see the benefits of it.

Unit Study Curriculum

Unit study curriculum takes one topic and includes as many subjects as possible. It builds an entire curriculum around the topic covering subjects like language arts, math, reading, art, history, science, and geography with hands-on application.

Also, unit study curriculum can build lesson plans around a piece of literature, a famous author or person.

10 Key Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum (free printable)

For a history slant, a unit study can be created using an event or learn about a famous person. Regarding science, a unit study can use topics from past or current events, inventions, or focus on a scientist.

Studying character traits is another way to build unit study curriculum. On top of that art can tie in history, science, crafts, and math when art is the main topic.

Extensive Unit Study Curriculum

Next, identifying the differences in extensive versus limited unit studies will help you to make a better choice.

Extensive unit study curriculum can include lesson plans or lesson plan ideas, language arts and maybe math. Math is the only component for both extensive and limited unit study that is normally purchased separately as well as including some aspect of it in daily learning.

In addition, it should include components of hands-on activities and project ideas.

As you can see the topics can be endless which is a huge appeal to learners of all ages.

A few choices I like for extensive unit study curriculum are:

  • Five in a Row which now includes ages up to middle school and is based on beautiful literature;
  • Konos is another extensive curriculum and is for learners all the way to high school and is based on character traits;
  • Gather Round Homeschool is fairly new to the homeschool world and is for learners to high school and takes more of a Charlotte Mason approach;
  • Tapestry of Grace is another favorite of mine built around the main topic of history, but also has a classical approach intertwined. It too is geared for all ages up to high school;
  • Christian Cottage blends history time periods with science and lots of hands-on activities. Like KONOS and Five in a Row, it has been around for years. Although initially it was up to middle school, it is aimed for use up to high school and is still a wonderful resource; and
  • Trail Guide to Learning blends another favorite subject of ours which is geography with language arts and science. When it launched back in the day it was aimed for middle school and still is a great fit for middle school learners.

Limited Unit Study Curriculum

Next, don’t think because a unit study curriculum is limited that it won’t be of value.

The ideas or content may be excellent starting points or give extensive background knowledge. Perhaps limited unit study curriculum just gives an idea for the day versus a daily lesson plan.

Furthermore, the focus of some of unit studies are narrow; that is a huge benefit when too much information is overwhelming.

Not everyone wants day to day hand holding especially if you have an eager learner. You may just want a framework of knowledge on the topic. There are many ways to use limited unit study curriculum.

A few of the ones I like are below;

Our Journey Westward

In my 25 years of homeschooling, I’ve seen an explosion of unit studies. Some welcomed by me, others not so much.

What is NOT Unit Study Curriculum

What is not a homeschool unit study is busy work and it’s not an approach you do alongside another approach.

Because there are no rules, you can be as detailed or loose in your planning as you desire. There is no one way to do a unit study.

Additionally, because it’s an integrated thematic study, prepared laid our boxed curriculum doesn’t usually align with this approach. You need less all-in-one curriculum and more topical or thematic guides and books.

What Makes Good Unit Study Curriculum

With that being said, what makes a good unit study curriculum is one that makes your job easier. Too, it should give you support to create a richer education for your children while saving you time and stress.

How Long Should a Unit Study Last

Then, depending on the ages of your children and their interests, your unit study could last anywhere from two weeks to several months.

A few topics my children wanted to study longer, I wanted to move on to cover other topics for the year. Just know that sometimes you’re the one that wants to move on.

However, I’ve had topics planned to do for a month which only lasted two weeks.

A good rule of thumb is to plan for at least two unit studies a month. That way if your children lose interest in one topic which you had planned to do longer, you can easily move on to your next topic.

Another tip for you is to use unit studies with all your children. Having these solid tips will show you how to use unit study curriculum with all your children.

Using Unit Study Curriculum with Multiple Aged Children

  1. Aim for a resource which targets the age of your middle child or most mature learner. Tweaking assignments to meet the needs of younger learners is easier than crafting ideas for older learners. Especially if you’re new to unit studies, this sanity-saving tip will help.
  2. Doing unit studies together does not mean you have to be on the same subtopic. For example, your family may be studying about sharks. An older learner could write a research paper, your middle learner could practice his reading on a book he or she has selected, and your kindergartner may be coloring a picture or crafting a shark. Different activities while you’re on the same topic is the sanity-saving secret. All doing the same lesson plan is not.
  3. Let each younger learner stop when he or she is immersed. The unit study approach is immersion into the topic. Like everything else, your youngest learner has limits when interest has piqued. Keep going with your older learners until their interest is piqued as well. Chances are you’ll cover the topic again later in your journey and the younger ones will pick up where they left off.

10 Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum

Lastly, the best part of unit studies and unit study curriculum are the benefits.

  1. Including all of your children together with each working at their individual levels, maximizes time.
  2. Children are immersed in a topic which they chose or better known as delight-directed studies.
  3. Willing participants in learning instead of forced learning nurtures independent learning.
  4. Moving at your family’s pace allows each child to be masters of their material. They are working individually for mastering not in comparison to other children their age.
  5. Through hands-on activities and living books, learning sticks. Retention is higher because children are doing and not just reading about the topic.
  6. Instead of learning bits and pieces about topics, children stay on a topic long enough to connect their knowledge to the greater body of knowledge.
  7. Separated curriculum with various topics have no unifying effect unlike the unit study approach.
  8. One giant reference book which spans many ages can be used with your multiple children saving a budget strain. In addition, the books can be used for several years unlike grade level curriculum.
  9. Learning is a privilege and should not be rushed to stay in step with scope and sequence. Using the unit study approach makes the approach fit your family, not keep up with a curriculum schedule.
  10. My favorite benefit is that the whole family is together with a relaxed pace and fostering sibling togetherness. The focus is on maximizing the time and your kids can easily lose track of the time spent learning. Fabulous!

Ultimate Unit Study Planner

I would love to give you a copy of one of my pages from my Ultimate Unit Study Planner! It is a page I start with when I call bubble planning. I plan my thoughts and possible subjects around the main theme. You can see a sample of it here How to Create a Homeschool Unit Study – Step 2: Separation.

10 Key Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum (free printable)

ID: 15102

Free Unit Study Planner Printable Page

10 Key Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum (free printable)

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10 Key Benefits of Unit Study Curriculum (free printable)

What do you think? Are you ready to give unit study curriculum a try?

Here are some more unit study helps:

Helpful Homeschool Unit Study Spines to Plan in a Few Hours

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Homeschool unit study spines can make or break your unit study.

While you can use any living book for a great unit study, some resources are more helpful than others to help you plan quickly.

Helpful Homeschool Unit Study Spines to Plan in a Few Hours

Too, I’ve used many resources through my years of planning unit studies; choosing a spine is key to a successful unit study.

Before I jump into listing some helpful unit study spines, look below at the definition of a spine.

What is a Homeschool Unit Study Spine

A homeschool unit study spine can be a living book, magazine, mentor, reference book or chart, art or art object, play, musical piece, brochure, movie, encyclopedia, or any other type of book, object, or person which is the main reference or authority for your unit study topic.

In addition, a unit study spine is used to launch your lesson plans, topics, and sub-topics.

To easily plan, a superior spine will support additional ideas, projects, objectives, and concepts about the main topic.

It guides you down a trail to dive deep into the topic.

Look at my video How to Choose a Useful and NOT Useless Homeschool Unit Study Spine on my channel How to Homeschool EZ to understand what they are and how to choose them.

All research revolves around your spine; it is the backbone of your study and it is the main resource for your chosen theme.

Helpful Homeschool Unit Study Spines to Plan in a Few Hours

Additionally, depending on the type of unit study, some resources will be more helpful than others.

For example, if you’re doing a literature unit study, a beautiful dictionary is a must.

Also, as I moved away from all-in-one language arts, I used bar charts and quick study guides to zero in on skill subjects. To learn the difference between a skill and content subject read What Homeschool Subjects to Teach and When to Teach Them? Part 1 of 3.

Now look below at a few handy charts which promptly get to the nitty-gritty of language arts skills.

Further, while comparing and choosing books, here are features I look for when choosing a superior resource:

  • Background information about the topic in the text.
  • Ideas for hands-on projects.
  • Anecdotes.
  • Words for vocabulary.
  • Diagrams or charts.
  • Questions in the text or at the end.

With that being said, look at the breakdown for the different types of unit study spines which help you to plan in a few hours.

The very first reference books I started with were DK Eyewitness books.

They’ve improved through the years; they’re timeless. A wonderful collection is an inexpensive way to prep for a unit study beginner.

Science Homeschool Unit Study Spines

One of my favorite and timeless publishers is Nomad Press. They have many books which make for great themes. Look at some of them below.

Another set of books are the DK Smithsonian Encyclopedia which are keepers for science unit study spines.

Look at some of the timeless ones we have used below along with some new ones.

17 Favorite Unit Study Science Spines

I love to pair a living book about a topic with a reference book to use as spines. Sometimes, it’s easier to use a reference book as a spine and add living books as we go along. These are some of my favorite science spines.

DK Eyewitness Collection 15 Books Set (Human Body,Ocean,Volcano & Earthquake,Animal,Planets,Periodic Table,Dinosaurs,Mythology,Ancient Egypt,Tudor,Victorians,Ancient Rome,Ancient Greece and More)

(Human Body, Ocean,Volcano & Earthquake, Animal, Planets, Periodic Table, Dinosaurs, Mythology, Ancient Egypt, Tudor, Victorians, Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece and More)

The Water Cycle!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

Drip―Drop―Splash! Water is essential to all forms of life. So let’s learn all about it! The Water Cycle! With 25 Science Projects for Kids captures kids’ imaginations with a deep look at the world of water. Combining hands-on activities with history and science, The Water Cycle! invites kids to have fun learning about the water cycle, water resources, drinking water and sanitation, water pollution and conservation, water use, water folklore and festivals, and the latest in water technology.

Skulls and Skeletons!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

What would happen if you had no bones? You might fall over flat on the floor!

Bones are those hard parts of our bodies that make up our skeletons and skulls, and we need them in lots of different ways. In Skulls and Skeletons! With 25 Science Projects for Kids, readers learn about the bones in their bodies and why we can’t live without them. And bones aren’t just good for humans―many animals can’t live without them! But do all animals have bones? No, they don’t! And why do fish look so much different from birds, even though both have bones? Organisms use their bodies in different ways to successfully live in different habitats. For example, a bird’s light bones are great for flying, but would not support them deep in the ocean.

Weather and Climate!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

What’s it like outside? Is it a day for building a snowman, constructing a sandcastle, or planting a garden? Weather and Climate! With 25 Science Projects for Kids introduces kids ages 7 to 10 to the fascinating world of meteorology and all of the ways what’s going on in the atmosphere above our heads can affect us here on the earth! Plus, discover how weather and climate change are linked but not the same, and figure out ways to be part of the solution to the problem of global warming.

The activity in our atmosphere plays a critical role in our lives and in the health of our planet. Today’s weather determines what clothes you wear and what you are going to do after school, while the local climate influences what kind of car your parents drive, what kind of house you live in, and―believe it or not―what foods you eat!

Rivers and Streams!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

Did you know that without rivers, human life might not have developed as it did? We might be a very difference species if it wasn’t for rivers, as would the other plants and animals who depends on rivers and streams for food, transportation, water, and power!

In Rivers and Streams! With 25 Science Projects for Kids, readers ages 7 to 10 dive in and discover how rivers change the shape of the land while plants, animals, and humans change the shape of
rivers. Through fun facts, engaging content, and essential questions, kids learn about the vital role that rivers and streams have played in human history and explore the ways rivers and streams might affect our future. Science experiments that promote critical thinking and creative problem solving encourage kids to make their own discoveries about the waterways they might pass every day.

Kitchen Chemistry: Cool Crystals, Rockin’ Reactions, and Magical Mixtures with Hands-On Science Activities

Bring chemistry to your kitchen with a book that offers hands-on science activities that can be done with ingredients from your pantry and the refrigerator!

What’s going on when you cook in the kitchen? Science!

In Kitchen Chemistry: Cool Crystals, Rockin’ Reactions, and Magical Mixtures with Hands-On Science Activities, readers ages 9 to 12 discover that the cooking, mixing, and measuring you do in the kitchen all has its roots deep in science―chemistry to be exact!

Explore Rivers and Ponds!: With 25 Great Projects

Explore Rivers and Ponds! with 25 Great Projects, introduces kids to the fascinating world of freshwater habitats and the creatures they contain. Combining hands-on activities with ecology and
science, kids will have fun learning about the freshwater biome, including lakes and ponds, streams and rivers, and wetlands. Entertaining illustrations and fascinating sidebars illuminate the topic and bring it to life, while Words to Know highlighted and defined within the text reinforce new vocabulary. Projects include assembling an ecologist’s field kit, creating a fishless aquarium, pouring casts of animal tracks, and building a watershed replica. Additional materials include a glossary, and a list of current reference works, websites, museums, and science centers.

Robotics!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

Where was the last time you saw a robot? Did you read about one in a book or see one in a movie? Maybe you saw one in a video game!

Some people think robots exist only in our imagination, but actually, robots are all around us right now. Robotics! With 25 Science Projects for Kids offers readers ages 7 to 10 an introduction to the history, mechanics, and future use of robots! Readers explore the history of robotics and discover how the first types looked and moved and what people expected they could do. Compare these early robots to those we have today, some of which don’t even have bodies! Kids discover how robots have changed as decades have passed and see how they now look, think, sense, move, and do things.

Gutsy Girls Go For Science: Astronauts: With Stem Projects for Kids

Hands-on space science projects help launch kids ages 8 to 11 into learning about fearless female astronauts who broke barriers across space and gender in this full-color book full of real-world connections!

Do you dream of going into space? Do you wonder what it’s like on the moon? In Gutsy Girls Go for Science: Astronauts with STEM Projects for Kids, readers ages 8 through 11 explore the lives of some of the world’s most amazing female astronauts, including Bonnie Dunbar, Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, Sunita Williams, and Serena Auñón-Chancellor―all pioneers in the field of space exploration. Their hard work and dedication to science and experimentation gave the world much new knowledge about space, biology, and more. These brave women took risks and pushed the limits of what we know about life in space.

Energy: 25 Projects Investigate Why We Need Power & How We Get It

Energy is a vital part of our lives. It powers our computer, lights our home, and moves our car. It also costs a lot of money and pollutes our environment. In Energy: 25 Projects Investigate Why We Need Power and How We Get It, kids ages 9–12 learn about the history and science of the world’s energy sources, from nonrenewable fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas to renewable sources such as solar and wind power.

Zoology: Inside the Secret World of Animals (DK Secret World Encyclopedias)

This visual reference book starts with the question "what is an animal?" and takes you through the animal kingdom - mammals, reptiles, birds, and sea creatures. It uses a unique head-to-toe approach that showcases in spectacular detail special features like the flight feathers of a parrot, the antenna of a moth, or the tentacles of coral.This visual encyclopedia is filled with clear and fascinating information on everything about the social lives of animals. Read exciting stories like how animals communicate, defend their territories, and attract mates.

The Animal Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of Life on Earth (DK Our World in Pictures)

This inspiring children’s reference guide welcomes you to the animal kingdom where you can meet more than 1,500 species, ranging from ants to zebras and everything in between. Stunning pictures bring you face to face with giant predators you know and love, including polar bears and tigers, as well as mysterious microscopic life, including amoebas and bacteria.

Space A Visual Encyclopedia (DK Children's Visual Encyclopedias)

From the Moon, Sun, and planets of our Solar System to space exploration, black holes, and dark matter, this completely revised and updated children’s encyclopedia covers all you need to know about the cosmos. The most up-to-date images from space agencies such as NASA and ESA combine with info panels, timelines, interviews, diagrams, and activities you can do at home to help you understand the majesty and wonder of space. 

Backyard Biology: Investigate Habitats Outside Your Door with 25 Projects

BIOLOGY IS THE STUDY OF LIFE. Life is everywhere, thriving in the city and in the country, teeming in ecosystems around the planet—in deserts, oceans, and even the Arctic. And life is right outside your door! Backyard Biology invites children ages 9 and up to investigate living things —especially in yards, parks, nature areas, and playgrounds. Trivia and fun facts bring animals, plants, and microorganisms to life, in all their wonder.

Inventions: A Visual Encyclopedia (DK Children's Visual Encyclopedias)

This stunning visual guide explores and explains the greatest inventions, ideas, and discoveries throughout the ages, and introduces their inventors. From fire, stone tools, and the wheel to ploughs and paper, discover the first inventions that shaped societies and grew mighty civilizations and empires such as those in ancient Greece, ancient Rome, and ancient China.

The Arts: A Visual Encyclopedia (DK Children's Visual Encyclopedias)

From the first strokes of paint on prehistoric caves to contemporary street art in the 21st century, every artistic style and movement is explored and explained in stunning detail. Special features celebrate the lives of groundbreaking painters, sculptors, and photographers, from Dutch master Johannes Vermeer to photography pioneer Julia Margaret Cameron. Many best-loved pieces of art are showcased in iconic images. Marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's mysterious Mona Lisa, the most famous painted lady. March alongside China’s statues of the Terracotta Army, and gaze in awe at Barbara Hepworth's stunning Pelagos sculpture.

Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia (DK Children's Visual Encyclopedias)

From the shimmering surface to the darkest depths, this breathtaking visual encyclopedia presents our blue planet as never before. Stunning photography, accessible information, and fascinating facts are spilling over in this essential guide to the oceans. Take a dip in all the world’s waters to experience their incredible diversity. Make a splash in the icy Arctic waters before warming up in the tropical Indian Ocean. Experience the super size of mighty whales compared to swarms of tiny krill. Cast your eyes to the skies to see circling sea birds before diving down to meet mysterious creatures of the deep. 

Moreover, there are no shortages of books and references for nature; I prefer field guides which are concise nuggets while teaching a nature unit study.

Of course taking the guides to our outside classroom is the best reason.

Nature Homeschool Unit Study Spines

Further, many times I’ve used two unit study spines as companions.

For example, the resources I’ve listed above are reference books. I find reference books are extremely easy in helping me to plan a unit study because they put topics in a nutshell.

Living Books For Homeschool Unit Study Spines

However, along with a reference book, some unit studies are better taught alongside a living book.

I find when I add a living book, language arts becomes a natural fit and not a forced fit.

Living books contain two main important things.

  1. The book is written by an authority on the topic; and
  2. They are written in a narrative form meaning a book would explain events and give vivid details in a story form which engages the mind of readers.

In addition, a living book should stir a reader’s emotion and imagination even doing so in a picture book.

However, one of the best features of a living book is that a reader doesn’t realize that he is learning facts in a natural way. Living books are opposite of textbooks.

Lastly, I look for classic books, but they aren’t always living books. Foremost I look for a well-written book which has a high literary quality.

Adding a living book alongside a reference book has been the key to my family covering almost all the subjects in a unit study.

Below, I’ve listed just a few books we’ve used through years; I want you to have examples of living books for the various ages.

I’ve divided the living books into three sections or lower, middle, and upper reading levels.

Also, keep in mind I’m giving you examples of them and then you can decide where to add them to topics.

Living Books for Beginning Reading Levels

Living Books for Middle Reading Levels

Additionally, look at these examples of living books for middle school.

Living Books for Upper Reading Levels

Moreover, a series of books like the Shakespeare Can Be Fun introduces sophisticated literature to younger kids in a fun way.

Let a young learner’s introduction to Shakespeare be one he understands. There is plenty of time in middle and high school to learn about literary terms.

Next, I want to share a few more reference books which I’ve used plentifully. The books below are by Chicago Review Press.

Even though these resources are some of my favorite, they are by no means an exhaustive list. My focus in this roundup is to give you visual examples of unit study spines which ease lesson planning by giving you a plethora of examples.

How Unit Study Spines Are Cost Effective

In conclusion, but certainly not less important is knowing the value of unit study spines. Homeschool unit study spines are cost effective for several reasons:

  • spines cover many ages and that means I divide the price by how many years I’m using it or by how many kids are using it for one year,
  • there is less waste of resources because we choose exactly what we want to study,
  • because unit studies are a mastery approach, less money is spent on covering one topic for several years, and
  • spending less time on curriculum which may not cover our specific educational goals and focusing exactly on my kids’ needs is not only a huge savings, but an outstanding education.

What do you think? Are you ready to give unit studies a try?

You’ll love these other unit study helps:

Hugs and love ya,

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

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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?