Curriculum packages are all-in-one solutions for homeschooling. They include everything from student materials to teacher resources, making planning easier for families.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. According to HSLDA's annual survey, over 60% of homeschool families use an eclectic or blended approach, combining elements from multiple methods rather than following a single philosophy exclusively (HSLDA, 2023).
What curriculum packages include
A curriculum package usually has:
- Student materials: This includes textbooks, workbooks, readers, and other items for each subject. Everything your child needs for the year.
- Teacher materials: You'll find lesson plans, answer keys, teaching guides, and schedules. These help you know what and when to teach.
- Tests and assessments: There are chapter tests, unit tests, and sometimes standardized assessments to track progress.
- Schedule or planner: Many packages offer suggested daily or weekly schedules. Some even have detailed lesson plans.
- Scope and sequence: This shows what topics are covered and in what order. It's helpful for keeping records and understanding the curriculum.
Higher-end packages may also include:
- Online components like videos and interactive exercises.
- Hands-on materials or manipulatives.
- Art supplies or science equipment.
- Resources for parent training.
Benefits of complete packages
Here are some plus points of using complete packages:
- Less decision fatigue: You only choose one package instead of lots of smaller decisions for each subject. This saves mental energy for teaching.
- Consistent educational philosophy: When all subjects come from one source, they share the same approach. A Charlotte Mason package feels different from a classical one, but they are consistent internally.
- Coordinated scope and sequence: Subjects work together. You might see history connections in literature or science terms in spelling.
- Built-in scheduling: You follow the package's plan instead of creating your own. This structure can help some families, but others may feel restricted.
- Resale value: Complete packages keep their value well. You can resell used materials or hand them down to younger siblings.
- Support availability: Big curriculum providers offer customer service and resources. You won't be alone in this journey.
Major curriculum package providers
Here are some popular providers you might consider:
- Abeka: Traditional and rigorous, with a Christian focus and video options.
- BJU Press: Offers engaging materials with a Christian worldview and video instruction.
- Sonlight: Literature-based, Christian resources with detailed guides and schedules.
- My Father's World: Blends Charlotte Mason, classical, and unit study methods with a Christian perspective.
- Calvert: A secular, accredited option with both online and offline materials.
- Oak Meadow: Waldorf-inspired with a creative approach available as secular or spiritual.
- Time4Learning: An online subscription with a complete curriculum accessible on any device.
- Connections Academy/K12: Offers online public school options, often free in many states.
Limitations and tradeoffs
While there are many benefits, there are some downsides too:
- Less flexibility: Packages are complete systems. If you change one subject, you might lose some integration.
- May not fit every child: A one-size-fits-all approach can miss the mark. If your child excels in math but struggles in reading, a standard package might not work.
- Cost: Complete packages can be pricier upfront than piecing together used books.
- Philosophical lock-in: If you change your mind mid-year about the approach, you may be stuck since you've invested a lot.
- Potential overkill: Some packages include materials you might not need. You could end up paying for things that don't serve your family.
- Dependence: Relying too much on external structure can make future transitions harder. Balance is key.
Questions to ask before choosing
Here are some questions to think about:
- What's your educational philosophy? Packages represent specific teaching methods. Know what you believe before choosing.
- What’s your child’s learning style? Visual learners may need image-rich materials, while kinesthetic learners will benefit from hands-on activities. Match the package to your child.
- How much structure do you want? Some packages are very structured, while others are flexible. Know your preference.
- What’s your budget? Prices vary widely. Some packages start under $500/year and others can exceed $2000. Be clear on what you can spend.
- Is the worldview compatible? Christian packages often include Bible content, while secular ones do not. Make sure you choose according to your family's values.
Hybrid approaches
Many families mix and match packages:
- Package for core subjects: Use the package for math and language arts, where a sequence matters most. Pick different materials for history and science.
- Different packages for different kids: Each child can use a different provider based on their needs. It takes more management but can be more effective.
- Package as a spine, supplements as enrichment: Follow the package's structure while adding activities and books. This gives you accountability while enriching the learning experience.
- Starting point, not destination: Use a package for your first year to get the hang of things. As you gain confidence, customize more. Many experienced homeschoolers started with packages and moved away from them.
- Returning to packages: Some families switch in and out of packages depending on their life situation. A busy season might call for more structure, while a calm time allows for customization.
Next steps
Curriculum packages tackle real issues like decision overload and planning complexity. For many families, especially those new to homeschooling, these complete packages offer vital structure and confidence.
The key is to choose wisely. Understand what you’re getting and what you might give up. A package that works for one family might not be right for yours.
Remember, packages aren't “real homeschooling” or “cheating.” They're tools. Use them when they help you, adjust them when you need flexibility, and move on when you've outgrown them. What matters most is your child's education, not where the lesson plans come from.
