Thoughts on Curriculum

Ahhhhh!  Curriculum!  That is the question of the day!  What should I get?  Where?  Is it expensive?  It can be...  Does it have to be?  No!  You can go all out and get all the bells and whistles...  Do I recommend that?  No!

My rule of thumb is to NOT go out and spend a ton on curriculum.  Why?  You want your children to have the best, right?  Well, spending a ton of money does not necessarily mean you are getting the best.  It means you have spent a lot of money.  When you go out and spend a ton of money on curriculum, you feel like you have to use it...primarily because it cost a lot of money.  What if your  child hates it?  Then you are being counter productive.  Find the best resources you can find at the best cost that you can find them in order to be flexible.  When you are flexible, you can help your child love to learn.  So, what DO I suggest? 

First of all, check out your local library.  This is my first and favorite resource.  This is ALWAYS my first stop when I am looking for a new resource.  It is a free resource that has endless possibilities.  You can virtually find everything you need here not only for subjects such as history, science, and literature, but my family has also used the library for subjects such as speed reading, sign language, typing, 10-Key, foreign language, Algebra, and on and on.  Most library systems have a library cooperative where they will send materials to your local library.  Also, check to see if your local library has a book club, teen club, crafts, tutors, and computer lessons.  Most libraries also have an area where they will sell used items such as books, magazines, CDs and movies.  I know that the Birmingham Public Library and Homewood Library both have an awesome used material area set up, and I have bought many quality resources there.  Not only do libraries carry books, they also carry books on tape, magazines, CDs, DVDs, VHS, etc... 

Next, check out the local thrift store.  I have never been in an American's Thrift Store and not found quality educational materials and usually for under $1.  Don't just check out the book section either.  I have found the best resources in the toy department over where you find the games and puzzles.  Also, make sure to check out the magazine rack and the CDs. 

Talk to other homeschoolers.  They are a great resource for quality educational materials.  Who wants all of those books hanging around for years?  There are usually umpteen used curriculum sales in the spring, and many homeschoolers bring materials to park day.  Don't forget to check out Ebay. 

Don't forget to check out the boob tube...  Yes, that's right...  the T.V.  There are some great programs offered these days.  It's not just Sesame Street anymore.  You can find programming for Pre-School all the way through adult.  Check out stations such as The History Channel, Animal Planet, Discovery, etc...  Of course, I am not suggesting that all your child do is watch T.V., but what I am suggesting is looking to see what is offered and how it might benefit them.  Most channels and even individual shows offer wonderful websites, activities, and lesson plans.

And finally, the Internet...  Geez, you are really missing the boat if you do not have Internet access.  You can find everything you need for a quality education for free on the Internet.  If you find a site that you have to pay for, research a little more.  You can usually find the same thing or better for free.  There are a ton of links below for you to check out.