Homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive. Seriously. There are so many incredible educational resources out there, and a lot of them are either super low-cost or completely free. Once you know where to look, it changes the game.
I don’t believe in gatekeeping. If I find something that works for us, I’m sharing it. Every family deserves to feel confident and supported in their homeschool journey. I’ve been doing this for seven years, and whether we’ve had a generous budget or a super tight one, I’ve always leaned on these free tools. They’re reliable, engaging, and best of all, easy to access.
If you’re new to homeschooling or even just trying to stretch your resources a bit further, here are five of my favorite educational platforms that we use regularly in our home. These aren’t random links I found in a Pinterest scroll. These are real tools that I use with my kids, who are currently eight, six, and four.
The Library
Let me just go ahead and say it. The library is the foundation of our homeschool. If you’re not using your library like it’s your own personal curriculum hub, now’s the time. Ours offers books, audiobooks, activity kits, DVDs, online databases, STEM kits, and programs for all ages.
We’ve borrowed books for themed unit studies, found amazing read-alouds, and even participated in free workshops and learning events. Most libraries also have access to online platforms like Hoopla and Libby, which means free ebooks and audiobooks right from your phone or tablet.
Also, please befriend your librarian. They are the real MVPs. If I tell ours we’re doing a unit on space or African folktales, she’ll have a cart of books waiting for me the next week.
Education.com
This is one of those sites I use when I need something quick and simple but still educational. There are thousands of printable worksheets, games, and guided lessons. And they’re actually good. Not the weird, outdated kind of worksheets.
I use this when I need one of the older kids to work independently while I help the youngest, or when I want to review something in a low-pressure way. You can browse by grade or subject, which makes it super user-friendly. And even though they have a paid membership, you can do a lot with the free account.
Smithsonian Learning Lab
This one feels like a well-kept secret. The Smithsonian Learning Lab is packed with lesson collections, digital exhibits, primary sources, and activities. You can explore history, art, science, and culture all in one place.
I’ve used it to pull together quick studies on things like ancient Egypt or ecosystems. My kids get excited about the visuals, and I love that it encourages critical thinking and exploration. It’s not rigid at all, so you can easily adapt it to your style and pace.
This is especially great for upper elementary and middle grade learners, but even younger kids can get into it with a little guidance.
National Geographic Kids
If your kids are curious about the world around them, National Geographic Kids is where it’s at. The website has tons of videos, articles, games, and photo galleries. We’ve learned about animals, landforms, oceans, weather, and all kinds of global topics just by browsing this site.
Sometimes I let the kids choose a video or game, and then we follow that up with a related activity, drawing, or book. It’s colorful and engaging without feeling like busy work. And if you have a little one obsessed with sharks, volcanoes, or outer space, this site will be a hit.
PBS Learning Media
I love this one for low-key, high-impact learning. PBS Learning Media is full of video clips, full episodes, lesson plans, and games tied to educational shows. Think Wild Kratts, Molly of Denali, and other PBS favorites.
You can search by grade level or subject. It covers everything from science and math to social studies and reading. I use it for those days when I want to keep the learning going but don’t feel like leading a full lesson. It’s also great for visual learners and for introducing new topics in a fun way.
PBS Learning Media is like having a smart TV that’s actually pulling its weight in your homeschool. It doesn’t feel like screen time just for the sake of it. It feels intentional.
Final Thoughts
I know there’s a lot of pressure out there to buy the perfect curriculum or build a Pinterest-worthy homeschool setup. But truly, you don’t need all the bells and whistles to educate your kids well. These five free resources have helped me through every season of homeschooling, and I know they can help you too.
Whether you’re brand new or just looking to switch things up, I hope this post shows you that quality homeschool tools are well within reach. And you don’t need to spend a fortune to make it happen.
You’ve got this. And remember, if you’re ever in doubt, go to the library. Always go to the library.
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