A Curriculum Swap is an event where homeschool families exchange educational materials they no longer need. It can happen in person or online, making it easy to find what you want and share what you don't.
A peer-reviewed study published in Peabody Journal of Education found that homeschooled children are typically well-adjusted socially and score above average on measures of social skills, emotional development, and daily living skills (Richard Medlin, 2013). According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population.
What is a curriculum swap?
Curriculum swaps are a great way for homeschool families to trade educational materials they don't use anymore. These swaps can be in-person at libraries or community centers, organized sales through local homeschool groups, or online exchanges on platforms like Facebook. Some swaps let you trade items for free, while others sell them for 40-50% off retail. It's a money-saving strategy that also helps you connect with other families.
Types of curriculum swaps
Library-hosted swaps are usually free, letting you take what you need and leave what you can. Homeschool co-op sales are more organized, with families pricing their items and sometimes paying a small fee for a table. Online options include general groups like Homeschool Curriculum Marketplace and specific groups for popular programs like Sonlight and Math-U-See. The Pennsylvania Curriculum Exchange even has a physical store with over 45,000 used books and materials!
Tips for buying at swaps
Before you go, know what you're after. Popular items go fast, so research what you want ahead of time. Bring cash in small bills, as many sellers can't give change. Ask sellers why they're selling—what didn't work for one child might be perfect for yours! Check workbooks for writing and make sure teacher guides and answer keys are included when buying textbook sets.
Tips for selling at swaps
Price items fairly—40-50% of retail is a good rule. Clean up workbooks by erasing pencil marks and be honest about any pen marks. Organize materials by grade level or subject to help buyers find what they need. Think about whether you want to sell at a lower price to clear space or take items home for the next swap. Being honest about your experience with the curriculum helps buyers make informed choices.
Finding swaps near you
To find swaps, search Facebook for '[Your City] homeschool curriculum' groups. Local libraries often host exchanges, especially around back-to-school time. Homeschool co-ops and support groups may organize annual sales, sometimes with conventions. Websites like Homeschool Classifieds and ThriftBooks provide online options year-round. Check with your state homeschool organization for a list of regional events and resources.
The bottom line
Curriculum swaps are a smart way to stretch your homeschool budget. You can offload materials you no longer need or find affordable curriculum options. Plus, you'll meet other families and learn from them as you save money. It's a win-win!
