Preparing for your homeschooling journey can feel super overwhelming! Yes, it is “only preschool,” but this is also the start of your child’s lifelong relationship with learning.
The rate of U.S. homeschooling skyrocketed by over 60% during the pandemic. With that rise came abundant, diverse at-home learning options and the daunting task of deciphering which one is best for your child.
From play-based learning to printable activities, mail-order kits, online programs, and religious (or not) curricula, we’ve done the hard work for you and combed through them all!
Take the stress out of curriculum hunting. Enjoy this simplified yet detailed list of only the seven best homeschool preschool curriculum options in 2026.
Update (2026): What We’re Still Using Years Later
When I first created this list, I was in the early years of homeschooling with a preschooler and toddler. Fast forward a few years, and my former preschooler is now a rising 3rd grader, while my toddler is a Kindergartener.
One thing that hasn’t changed? Our love for flexible, play-based learning. We’ve continued using programs like Blossom & Root for science, language arts, and art, and I’ve seen firsthand how the rich literature, hands-on activities, and adaptable structure can grow with your child over time.
We also still use Khan Academy Kids as a supplemental resource. It gives me the flexibility to move between supporting my kids directly and offering them meaningful, independent learning opportunities when needed.
In this updated guide to the best homeschool preschool curriculum, I’m sharing options that not only work in the early years—but can truly support your homeschool long-term.
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Table of Contents
- Update (2026): What We’re Still Using Years Later
- How do I start a homeschool preschool curriculum?
- What is the best homeschool preschool curriculum?
- #1: Best Overall Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
- #2: Best Flexible Homeschool Preschool Program
- #3: Best Free Homeschool Preschool Program
- #4: Best Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum on a Budget
- #5: Best Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum Kit
- #6: Best Free Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
- #7: Best Waldorf-Inspired Homeschool Preschool Curriculum Kit
- #8: Best Supplemental Homeschool Preschool Materials
- #9: The Best Unschooling/Child-Led Learning Resources for Homeschool Preschool
- #10: The Best Online Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
- The last thing you need to know about choosing a homeschool preschool curriculum
How do I start a homeschool preschool curriculum?
Before choosing your homeschool preschool curriculum, consider your goals. What do you hope to achieve with your child during their preschool year(s)?
To find the best fit, give weight to your child’s unique learning style along with your teaching preferences. Also, you will want to consider logistics, such as your budget and how much time you have to commit to a preschool curriculum.
Remember, preschool should be FUN! When you and your child are having fun, you will likely stick with it and foster a lifetime of love for learning.
Key factors to consider when choosing a curriculum:
- Format (e.g., print-at-home, mail-order kit, online, etc.)
- Cost
- Time commitment
- Duration (e.g., 1 or 2-year program options)
- Additional materials required
- Teaching/learning style (e.g., play-based, pencil/paper activities, amount of preparation required)
- Religious affiliation (e.g., religious vs. non-religious/secular)
What should be included in a homeschool preschool curriculum?
Preschool is a time for your child to explore and learn about their surrounding world. Homeschool preschool parents often make the mistake of trying to replicate a traditional brick-and-mortar preschool.
The beauty of homeschool preschool is that it can look any way you like! Preschool is a time to engage your child’s natural curiosity to spark a love for learning.
Mastery during the preschool years is not required; however, most homeschool curriculums will introduce the following:
- Colors
- Shapes
- Number Sense
- Alphabet Awareness (uppercase & lowercase letters)
- Phonics (letter sounds)
- Sorting & grouping
- Problem-solving skills
- Social & emotional skills
What is the best homeschool preschool curriculum?
As an eclectic homeschooling preschool parent on a forever quest to explore new curricula to fit my children’s individual learning needs, I bring you my favorite curricula for 2026.
#1: Best Overall Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
We ultimately chose Playing Preschool. My oldest had a blast and was so well-prepared for Kindergarten! I’m thrilled to have just started again with my youngest.
Playing Preschool by Busy Toddler
Playing Preschool is comprehensive and uses a highly effective play-based learning approach. It is super affordable and easy to implement. Hands down, Playing Preschool is my number one choice, particularly for families new to homeschooling.
I completed two full years of Playing Preschool with my son (now a thriving homeschooled Kindergartener) and my daughter is two months into year 1.
Key Features
Playing Preschool is a wildly popular play-based curriculum developed by Susie Allison, a former teacher and founder of the renowned busytoddler.com. Susie’s primary goal is to help parents teach their little ones “how to think” with engaging activities using toys and everyday household items.
Playing Preschool is a 190-day program geared towards preschoolers ages 2.5 to 5. A Year 2 program is available for students who complete the Year 1 curriculum.
Let’s dive into the essential features of Busy Toddler’s Playing Preschool program. You can also read our full review here.
Format
The Playing Preschool curriculum is sold only in a digital format and includes a 300+ page print-at-home PDF teacher manual. The year is divided into 2-week long units, each focusing on a unique topic and 1-to 2 letters of the alphabet.
Playing Preschool also includes a 26-letter alphabet book project your child will complete throughout the year.
Cost*
At the time of this post-publication, Playing Preschool’s Year 1 curriculum retails for $39.90. Parents can save by purchasing Year 1 and Year 2 together for $69.90 from busytoddler.com.
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
Playing Preschool activities take about 45 minutes per day (often less). The suggested curriculum pace is 5 days of engagement per week.
Duration
Playing Preschool is a one-year, 190-day curriculum. Busy Toddler also sells a Year 2 program for children who have already completed Year 1. The Year 2 program is also 190 days.
Additional Materials Required
Playing Preschool activities require mostly everyday household items and toys. The only substantial extra purchase is a children’s calendar that you’ll use daily throughout the program. We borrowed all of our unit books from the local library (the specific titles are 100% flexible within the unit topics).
Playing Preschool is sold only as a digital download, so factor in printing costs for the teacher manual.
Teaching/learning style
Playing Preschool does not use any paper-and-pencil worksheets and is almost entirely play-based. Your preschooler will actively engage in alphabet scavenger hunts (my son’s favorite), card games, counting and sorting toys, exploratory sensory bins, and minimal-prep arts and crafts.
As a parent educator, I found Playing Preschool very beginner-friendly, flexible, and easy to implement. I was worried about getting through the program with a newborn in our house, but we easily shifted our activities around her evolving nap schedule.
Religious affiliation:
Playing Preschool is a secular curriculum with no religious affiliation.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
Playing Preschool is my top choice curriculum because it’s so simple, effective, and brings a big “fun factor” to the table! Its easy implementation was a no-brainer for me as a busy stay-at-home/work-at-home mom of a toddler and baby.
As a certified positive discipline parent educator, I’m passionate about fostering a love of learning and not making homeschooling a battle. Playing Preschool’s engaging activities not only make a huge impact on cognitive development but are something kids WANT to do!
What I don’t like:
Although you will find some social/emotional themes woven throughout Playing Preschool, the curriculum does not consistently teach targeted social skills. This said children will naturally learn about self-regulation, patience, and taking turns through play and games.
In addition, there are intentionally no worksheets or handwriting activities to help families focus on the foundational preschool skills that matter most. I don’t find it a big deal and slowly integrated an additional handwriting curriculum when my son was ready, around age 4.
#2: Best Flexible Homeschool Preschool Program
Blossom & Root Early Years Curriculum
The
Developed by Kristina Garner, veteran Kindergarten teacher, and seasoned homeschooling mother, Early Years is rooted in the belief that children learn best through play, hands-on activities, and exploring their surrounding world.
Kristina believes, “Nature is our classroom, our teacher and our playmate all rolled into one.”
Blossom and Root Early Years isn’t quite an “open and go” program in my experience; however, most activities involve everyday items and are quick to set up.
It is an excellent choice for the homeschool parent with the confidence to take a highly comprehensive curriculum and create a unique learning experience for their child.
You don’t have to “stick to the script” every day in Early Years, but rather select the activities and weekly rhythm that works best for your family.
While we were fully committed to Playing Preschool, I loved supplementing our preschool experience with the Early Years… so much so that I chose Blossom and Root Level 0 (Kindergarten) for our first “official” homeschooling year and we loved it!
Let’s discuss the essential features of Blossom and Root’s Early Years Program. You can also read our full review here.
Key Features
Early Years requires minimal daily preparation (I spent roughly five minutes each evening setting up for the next day).
For me, the best part of Blossom and Root Early Years is the in-depth, diverse subject areas. You will delve far beyond basic preschool letters and numbers and choose activities from the following disciplines:
- Reading/Writing Readiness
- Hands-On Math Exploration with Integrated Science (Volume 1 Only)
- Early Math Foundations (Volume 2 Only)
- Literature
- Music Study
- Picture Study
- S.T.E.M. (Volume 2 only)
- Connectivity & Kindness (Volume 1 Only)
- Nature Study
- Kitchen Classroom
Like Playing Preschool, Early Years emphasizes that “formal” writing should wait for children’s hands to develop and includes mostly play-based activities to learn letter shapes (e.g., salt tray tracing, molding letters from Play-Doh, etc.).
Format
Like Playing Preschool, Blossom and Root Early Years is sold only as a downloadable PDF and comes with two years of curricula for preschoolers (Volumes 1 and 2 sell separately and together).
Because Early Years is so comprehensive, I found it pertinent to have the parent manual printed out and spiral bound (with tabs!) as you will need to flip around quite a bit between subjects.
Cost*
Blossom and Root will grow with your child throughout their preschool years (and beyond if you choose!).
The Early Years curriculum consists of two 36-week programs, sold separately and together. Volume 1 caters to children ages 2-4 and costs $22, while Volume 2 caters to children ages 4-6 and costs $45*.
You can bundle and save by purchasing both programs together. You can even buy a larger bundle which includes Blossom and Root’s Kindergarten program for maximum savings.
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
If you follow the optional weekly schedule template (which you do not have to do!), you can expect to spend an hour per day on Blossom and Root Early Years activities with your child.
Duration
Additional Materials Required
I already had most of the materials used in Blossom and Root Early Years around the house. Like Playing Preschool, many lessons require everyday household items and simple arts and crafts supplies.
There are also weekly literature recommendations, which you can borrow from your local library. Books are flexible, so you can always choose a similar read if your library does not have the exact title listed.
Before purchasing Blossom and Root Early Years, you can download a
There were a few items I did not have at home that enhanced the Early Years program, including an alphabet chart, rhyming word picture cards, and a poetry book.
Teaching/Learning Style
If you are familiar with the various homeschooling philosophies, know that Blossom and Root offers a beautiful blend of Charlotte Mason and Waldorf styles.
If you are unfamiliar with these terms, know that Blossom and Root provides opportunities for children to learn through short lessons, storytelling, nature exploration, narration/journaling, and handicrafts.
Above all else, Blossom and Root emphasizes that the parent-child relationship and connection is the most pivotal foundation for learning.
My 4-year-old loved the play-based activities in Blossom and Root Early Years Volume 2. The opportunities to explore nature together created lasting memories and validated our decision to become a homeschooling family!
Religious Affiliation
Blossom and Root Early Years is a secular program with no religious affiliation.
At the same time, it is so flexible you could swap or add supplemental activities and lessons should you choose to add religion to your homeschool preschool program.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
The diversity and depth of subject matter make
Kristina provides creative suggestions to incorporate music and art study into your child’s free play. Early Years never feels like “work” for both parent and child.
One of my favorite aspects of Blossom and Root is the option for longevity. Kristina provides various curriculum options through fifth grade.
In other words, once you find your family’s unique rhythm within Blossom and Root you can keep it going for years to come!
What I don’t like:
During our first year, I lacked confidence as a homeschool educator and had just given birth to my second child. In other words, I just wanted to be told what to do. Playing Preschool Year 1 was an excellent choice for this particular season of life.
By year two, we still loved Playing Preschool and craved even more flexibility and additional opportunities to learn and explore. Blossom and Root Volume 2 delivered!
We are in the final weeks of Blossom and Root Kindergarten and my son and I are both in love with the flexibility, rich literature and emphasis on nature!
The beauty of digital homeschool curricula is they are very cost-effective and provide you with the freedom to mix and match in a way that best serves your child.
#3: Best Free Homeschool Preschool Program
Khan Academy Kids
Khan Academy Kids is a free online educational app for students ages 2-8. There are no ads or subscriptions, just high-quality learning activities (with fun, whimsical characters!) straight to your device.
Khan Academy Kids is a hub for thousands of original, no-cost educational resources such as books, activities, and videos targeting literacy, writing, language, and math skills.
As a former school counselor, Khan Academy was always my go-to recommendation for families seeking extra learning resources at home. I love that Khan Academy Kids also emphasizes social-emotional development!
As a homeschool mom, I now love using Khan Academy when my kids need extra practice on a specific skill. The program allows instructors to hand-select specific activities for each student, which makes finding supplemental activities a breeze.
Key Features
If you are looking for a free online homeschool preschool program, you may wonder about the quality or how your child may fare with an online format.
Here are the key features of Khan Academy Kids to help you with your decision:
- Learning takes place primarily via the online application
- Additional printable worksheets and activities are available for pencil/paper work
- Emphasis on pre-reading/reading skills, writing, language, and math
- Provides an adaptive, individualized learning plan for each student to learn at their own pace
- Independent learning options are available via an online resource library
- 5 consistent, colorful, and engaging animated characters guide and interact with your child throughout their learning path
- Developed by educational experts at Stanford University and aligns with rigorous learning standards, including Common Core
Format
Khan Academy Kids is a free app that offers free online courses and lessons. It’s available on the App Store, Google Play, and Amazon App Store.
Cost:
Free!
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
Their personalized learning path dynamically adapts to every child so they can learn at their own pace.
Duration
Khan Academy Kids is self-paced and designed to grow with your child until around second grade. After Khan Academy Kids, students will be ready to dive into the traditional Khan Academy learning tools.
Additional Materials Required
Learners will need access to a tablet, phone, computer, or laptop. There are also printable worksheet activities available through the app that require a printer/paper.
Religious Affiliation
Khan Academy Kids is a secular curriculum with no religious affiliation.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
Khan Academy is comprehensive yet allows educators to hand-select activities to meet individual learner needs. While I have not used Khan Academy as a stand-alone curriculum, it has been an excellent supplemental resource to our other homeschool curricula.
The instructor dashboard is easy to use. I primarily use it to assign targeted skill practice for my kids in the areas where they need more support.
What I don’t like:
Online programs can be tricky during preschool. Kids are too young to read directions, and the whimsical characters (while super cute) cannot provide the same curated level of instruction as an attentive homeschool parent.
I have also found the grade-level content not to be very rigorous at times. I often have to search for specific skills in higher grade levels compared to our other homeschool curricula, which takes time.
#4: Best Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum on a Budget
God’s Little Explorers by Motherhood on a Dime
If you’re a Christian homeschooling family, it can feel like a lot to teach the Bible to a three or four-year-old, while also juggling teaching key academic and social skills. Fortunately, the God’s Little Explorers curriculum by Motherhood on a Dime will cover all of your bases.
This 28-week print-at-home preschool curriculum will take your child on a Biblical journey from Genesis to Revelation. Little ones will also enjoy loads of daily hands-on foundational academic activities, a treasure hunt adventure, and a long-term service project.
Stacie Nelson, former elementary school teacher, homeschool mother of three, and founder of motherhoodonadime.com created and has continued to grow the Gods’ Little Explorers curriculum over several years.
Key Features
Let’s talk about the key features that make God’s Little Explorers a standout choice for the best Christian homeschool preschool curriculum in 2026.
Format
God’s Little Explorers by Motherhood on a Dime is sold only as a digital PDF file (192 pages). It includes lesson plans, printable activities, an alphabet notebook, a Bible story chart, an assessment form, and more).
Stacie has seamlessly created a curriculum that blends the alphabet with the books of the Bible. For example, when reading the story of Adam and Eve, you’ll also explore the letter “G” (for garden).
The curriculum consists of 4 primary components:
- Bible Adventure (excerpts from a Children’s Bible with a related activity)
- Theme Adventure (e.g., arts & crafts, cooking activities, science experiments)
- ABC & 123 (e.g., year-long Alphabet book project, counting, shapes, colors)
- Life Skills (e.g., self-help skills, character education, year-long service project)
Cost*:
At the time of this post, the God’s Little Explorer’s curriculum sells for just $22. If you plan to use the activities in a classroom, church group, or homeschool co-op setting, you can purchase an extended license for $45.
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time commitment:
God’s Little Explorers is structured for 4 days per week. Lessons and activities take approximately 20 to 45 minutes per day.
Duration:
At 28 weeks long, God’s Little Explorers is slightly less than a full school-year curriculum.
Although you can start anytime you like, starting at the beginning of September is ideal so that the biblical stories match up in time with the Christmas season.
Additional materials required:
Once you print your PDF curriculum materials, you’ll also need:
- A Children’s Bible (Stacie recommends the Read and Learn Bible).
- Standard school supplies
- Suggested children’s books (can be borrowed from your local library)
Teaching/learning style:
God’s Little Explorers provides both hands-on learning and printable paper-based activities.
The lesson plan PDF contains links to activity directions and examples posted on motherhoodonadime.com. You’ll likely find it necessary to access your instructor materials electronically periodically, even after printing the materials.
Religious affiliation:
God’s Little Explorers is a Christian-based homeschool preschool curriculum designed to build academic skills, social skills, faith, and biblical knowledge.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
I love the story behind God’s Little Explorers. When you purchase the curriculum for your family, you will also participate in a larger mission. According to Stacie Nelson, Motherhood on a Dime donates 50% of the curriculum proceeds towards missions, which have already funded the construction of an all-girls orphanage in Southeast Asia.
What I don’t like:
Truthfully, it’s hard to find something I don’t love about God’s Little Explorers. I do not particularly love the length. 28 weeks (or 7 months) is a bit short if you’re looking for a curriculum to match up with a full school year. However, this is an easy workaround with supplementary materials.
#5: Best Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum Kit
Sonlight Preschool Package: Fiction, Fairy Tales, and Fun
Key Features
Sonlight‘s program is packed with class children’s books, Bible stories, and hands-on Montessori-inspired activities to help spark an early love for reading, math, and writing.
Not only is Sonlight an engaging program that teaches listening and motor skills, but it also includes a Spanish book for families interested in teaching dual language skills.
If your child loves a particular content area, Sonlight allows you to customize your program by adding on subjects.
Format
The Preschool Package comes with a loose-leaf, 3-hole punched instructor manual, a bible, children’s books, and a preschool homeschool curriculum supply kit.
Also, for your first purchase of the preschool homeschool curriculum package, you will receive digital access to audio files of their “My First Spanish Book”.
Cost*:
$372.73*
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
The Sonlight Preschool Package offers a flexible, 3-day per-week schedule.
Duration
30-week program
Additional Materials Required
The learning supply kit includes child safety scissors, tactile letters & numbers, shapes, a nylon knife, colored pencils, and more!
You will likely want to add a binder with tabs to organize your instructor manual for the printed sheets.
Sonlight also offers add-on student materials if you have more than one preschooler. This way, you don’t have to purchase another full curriculum.
Teaching/Learning Style
Sonlight believes that children learn better through rich literature compared to standard textbooks. The programs are based on the “natural learning” approach where kids learn through natural curiosity and exploration.
Religious Affiliation
Sonlight offers a Christian homeschool program (their History / Bible / Literature (HBL) program), which includes Bible reading and memorization. At the same time, Sonlight embraces literature written by authors of any faith.
The goal is to help kids develop their critical thinking skills, broaden their horizons, and develop spiritual insight.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
As a busy homeschool mom, I can wholeheartedly appreciate the idea of a pre-printed, comprehensive curriculum delivered to my doorstep, complete with supplies!
My preschoolers have needed and benefited from more adaptable activities, which require extra prep work. If an open-and-go program works for your little one, I say go for it!
What I don’t like:
The price tag is a bit hefty for a preschool program when there are so many free and low-cost preschool resources available.
Again, those low-cost options tend to come with a greater time commitment in the preparation department. If time is minimal and your budget allows, this Sonlight could be an excellent choice!
#6: Best Free Christian Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
ABC Jesus Loves Me
Key Features
ABC Jesus Loves Me is a free homeschool preschool curriculum that introduces children to the Bible through developmentally appropriate, interactive stories, activities, and scripts. It covers subjects including traditional academics (letters, numbers, etc.), the Bible, music, tactile writing, and self-care skills.
Unlike other free programs like Khan Academy, this is not an online or screen-based program. Instead, you download daily lesson plans and student worksheets and print them from home.
Take comfort in knowing that two former 1st-grade teachers with a combined 85 years of experience have thoroughly approved every ABC Jesus Loves Me curriculum.
Format
ABC Jesus Loves Me uses a combination of free printable worksheets and suggested activities using everyday school supplies and other materials you likely already have at home.
Since the curriculum is free, it’s easy to download a few sample lesson plans and determine if it’s going to be a good fit!
Cost*
Free!*
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
ABC Jesus Loves Me’s Preschool curriculum is a program that doesn’t have a set time commitment for the activities so you and your child can complete the weekly schedules at your own pace.
The lesson plan for the parents includes: a supply list, weekly objectives, links to printable worksheets, and suggested activities.
Duration
The curriculum spans 36 weeks.
Additional Materials Required
Suggested supplies and materials are listed for each week, but you are free to substitute with items you already have at home.
Teaching/Learning Style
ABC Jesus Loves Me is a religious-based program for parents who are looking to teach their kids while including Christian teachings. It’s also a great program for parents who are looking for supplemental education and Christian-based learning resources.
Religious Affiliation
ABC Jesus Loves Me is a Christian-based homeschool preschool curriculum that focuses on well-rounded academic, Bible, and developmental activities.
Pros/Cons
What I like: You can view and access the whole FREE curriculum on the ABC Jesus Loves Me website where you can easily navigate the curriculum per week and see the suggested activities, objectives, and materials needed per week.
What I don’t like: The free curriculum is already packed with activities and learning resources, but if you would like to upgrade to the complete curriculum (2nd edition) with more features, it’s $95.
The paid curriculum offers several benefits for parents, including more thorough teaching tips and time-saving activity ideas.
#7: Best Waldorf-Inspired Homeschool Preschool Curriculum Kit
Oak Meadow
Key Features
Oak Meadow is a creative, well-rounded Waldorf-inspired curriculum that engages the “head, heart, and hands”! In other words, Waldorf learning has children thinking, feeling, and doing throughout the learning process.
This curriculum kit is packed with stories, creative activities, and games that focus on teaching both academic and social-emotional skills. As a former school counselor, I’m quick to notice the scarcity of social-emotional learning across homeschool curricula so this is a big win in my book.
Furthermore, a comprehensive curriculum kit like Oak Meadow can help reduce stress for new homeschooling parents who may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed with getting started.
Format
This full-year preschool course is a play-based program that is based on the four seasons! Each month, you dive into stories, poems, games, songs, recipes, and other fun activities.
Helpful parent topics and guidance are embedded throughout the curriculum. Oak Meadow will hold your hand and help you learn how to transition between activities, tell stories, set up a proper play area for your kids, and more!
Cost*
$151* (Preschool Play: Seasons of Wonder Course Package) + Preschool Craft Kit ($220*)
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
I appreciate that Oak Meadow Preschool has no set time commitment for the activities, allowing homeschool parents the opportunity to follow their child’s lead. After all, preschool should be relaxed and playful!
Duration
Oak Meadow offers a 10-month program. The curriculum includes activities and stories unique to each month/season.
Additional Materials Required
You can buy an add-on Preschool Craft Kit, which includes a wide variety of materials used in the course.
Teaching/Learning Style
Oak Meadow is a great beginning course for both parents and children who are starting their homeschool journey. It focuses on children’s curiosity and helps them expand the way they see the world by learning through play.
Religious Affiliation
Oak Meadow is a secular curriculum with no religious affiliation.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
This curriculum feels more like playtime for you and your kids than formal school! I appreciate how the curriculum allows children to explore and be curious while still building key early learning skills.
Additionally, the curriculum includes concepts of diversity, community, caring about others, teamwork, and a lot more values that a lot of preschool curriculums fail to address.
What I don’t like:
The Preschool Craft Kit is sold separately from the curriculum bundle; however, you can easily substitute the materials you need with other items you have at home.
#8: Best Supplemental Homeschool Preschool Materials
No Time for Flashcards: Preschool Thematic Units
Key Features
No Time for Flashcards’ Preschool Thematic Units are great for kids who have already started school but are looking for extra learning over the summer or holiday breaks or for homeschool preschool families looking to do more of what I like to call a DIY/ “a la carte” curriculum.
Each unit has a fun theme (animals, backyard bugs, dinosaurs, etc.) complete with book suggestions, activities, art projects, printables, and even circle time!
Format
The preschool thematic units and preschool printable activity packs are all digital downloads.
Time Commitment
There is no set time commitment! Simply use the units when and how often works best for your family.
Duration
While there is no set duration for these units; however, they are designed to grow with most children ages between ages 3 and 5.
Additional Materials Required
You will need a computer and printer (or access to a local copy center) to print out the units. Children will need pencils, pens, markers, or other craft materials they would like to use for the activities.
Teaching/Learning Style
No Time for Flashcards is great for supplemental learning during the school year or breaks. With the variety of themed units to choose from, it’s easy to find a theme that sparks your kid’s interest and cultivates an early love of learning.
Religious Affiliation
No Time for Flashcards is a secular curriculum with no religious affiliation.
Pros/Cons
What I don’t like: These thematic units are not a full curriculum. Each unit has a different theme, so if you want your kid to learn a variety of topics, you’ll need to purchase more than one unit. Also, you’ll need to purchase (or borrow from your local library) any supplemental reading materials suggested in the units.
What I like: The price per unit is relatively low and you can bundle and save by purchasing multiple units at the same time.
#9: The Best Unschooling/Child-Led Learning Resources for Homeschool Preschool
Treehouse Schoolhouse “Wonder of Nature Early Years Collection”
Did you know that delaying formal education until age 5, 6, or even 7 has been associated with positive outcomes for children, particularly surrounding attention, focus, and achievement? It’s standard practice in countries such as Denmark and Finland, with many parents hopping on board here in the United States.
However, even with a child-led or unschooling approach, most families will opt to have educational resources on hand for their preschool-aged child to explore and naturally engage with.
Treehouse Schoolhouse offers gorgeous, nature-themed preschool resources for curious minds to build a foundation in literacy naturally and at their own pace.
Key Features
The Wonder of Nature Early Years Collection is a bundle of literacy-based resources: Wonder of Nature Alphabet Sheets, Wonder of Nature Alphabet Print Cards, and Wonder of Nature Alphabet Cursive Cards.
- Wonder of Nature Alphabet Sheets: A nature-themed set of reusable worksheets for each letter of the alphabet. Children learn each letter by “shaping it,” and “finding it.” Overall, a great play-based way to engage with the alphabet!
- Wonder of Nature Alphabet Print Cards: Gorgeous, colorful phonics cards featuring natural materials. Cards can be used as direct teaching resources or they can be displayed in a classroom or bedroom for more passive learning.
- Wonder of Nature Alphabet Cursive Cards: Cards feature double hand-painted watercolor illustrations for each letter of the alphabet, one uppercase and one lowercase.
These three resources can be purchased individually, or bundled together for a 15% savings.
Format
The Wonder of Nature Early Years Collection is offered in digital download or hard copies. If you opt for the digital download option, the file will be sent to the email address you use to checkout.
The hard copy cards are printed on high-quality 150 lb cover weight cardstock with flat matte UV coating and printed on a commercial-grade printing press.
Cost*
The digital download bundle will run you $50*, while the hard copy prints cost $100*.
Be sure to purchase through our affiliate link below to save an additional 10% off at checkout!
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time Commitment
The beauty of these child-led learning resources is that there is no time commitment or requirement! Simply use them when and how often are best for your learner.
Duration
While there is no set duration for these Wonder of Nature Early Years resources, they will grow with your child and will be relevant and engaging for most children ages 3-5.
Additional Materials Required
Children will need pencils, pens, markers, or any other materials they would like to use for writing and tracing. You will also want to stock up on clay or make homemade play dough (for shaping letters).
Teaching/Learning Style
The Wonder of Nature Early Years works great for a laid-back, unschooling (or almost unschooling!) parent. It also jives well with kids who want to learn on their terms. Wonder of Nature will help you keep play and natural exploration/learning a top priority!
Religious Affiliation
While Treehouse Schoolhouse offers a Bible curriculum, the majority of its resources, including Wonder of Nature, are non-religious.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
As a former indoorsy gal, homeschool life has transformed my relationship with nature. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best teachers for our little ones (and ourselves!).
These beautiful flashcards help children develop a positive relationship with nature and can be a helpful tool to encourage learning outdoors. For example, many of the print cards can be taken on a walk outside as a fun alphabet-focused scavenger hunt!
What I don’t like:
I’ll admit that the Wonder of Nature Early Years materials are a bit costly (considering it is not a “full” curriculum); however, you get what you pay for in terms of aesthetics and quality. They are beautiful materials that evoke a calming (rather than clutter!) effect on your home.
Plus, if you opt for the hard-copy prints they are high enough quality to withstand several rounds of little hands if you have multiple learners!
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#10: The Best Online Homeschool Preschool Curriculum
ABC Mouse
ABC Mouse is my top online homeschool preschool curriculum choice. It became wildly popular through the pandemic, and rightfully so!
ABC Mouse offers engaging academic activities catered to preschoolers’ skill levels through the convenience of online learning.
Key Features
ABC Mouse provides a complete academic curriculum for children ages 2-8.
When you register or sign up for a free 30-day trial, you will complete a few minutes of onboarding questions. From there, your child will enter their personalized “learning path” to complete a vast range of educational activities and games.
Format:
ABC Mouse requires a computer, tablet, or smartphone; however, I highly recommend a touch screen device for preschool students (based on personal experience with both my preschoolers using a mouse!)
Students will spend most of their time on their learning path, which spans 10 levels and includes over 10,000 activities. Preschoolers will enjoy short-story read-alouds, puzzles, finger-tracing activities, and even virtual arts and crafts!
ABC Mouse covers every primary subject, including:
- Reading & language arts
- Math
- Science & social studies
- Arts & colors
Cost*:
We were eager to take advantage of ABC Mouse’s free 30-day trial with my 4-year-old. Unsurprisingly, the program hooked him in minutes!
Even if you don’t plan to use the program for your primary homeschool curriculum, ABC Mouse provides a great educational experience instead of ordinary screen time.
Once your 30-day trial expires, ABC Mouse will cost you $12.99 per month.
*Prices are set by the curriculum developers and are subject to change after the publication of this post.
Time commitment:
ABC Mouse is self-paced, but you can check your parent settings to see how much time your child has spent on each content area per week.
Duration:
ABC Mouse is designed for children ages 2-8 and has the potential to grow with your child for years. One of my favorite elements of the curriculum is the ability to personalize the level of difficulty for your child.
Age of Learning, the developer of ABC Mouse, also hosts an Adventure Academy for kids ages 8-13.
Additional materials required:
You will need an electronic device with internet access (again, I highly recommend one with a touch screen).
Teaching/learning style:
ABC Mouse is an excellent option for work-at-home parents or parents homeschooling multiple kids, as it allows for more independent student work. At the same time, I do not advocate for a total “hands-off” approach. Preschoolers will always need parental engagement in their learning.
Preschoolers will also need help getting familiar with how to move from one activity to the next. My 4-year-old had the standard buttons figured out in minutes but needed reminders to “wait for the audio directions” before engaging in an activity.
Religious affiliation:
ABC Mouse is a secular curriculum with no religious affiliation.
Pros/Cons
What I like:
I love how you can personalize the ABC Mouse experience for your child.
While creating our account, I answered a few simple questions about my child and started with his suggested level. We found it was too easy, so I adjusted the settings on my parent account in just two minutes.
In addition, there are personalization options to get kids excited and engaged, such as a correct pronunciation feature for your child’s name. Kids can also select their own “pet” to act as their travel companion down the learning path.
What I don’t like:
ABC Mouse relies on positive reinforcement by using a ticket reward system. Kids can “spend” their tickets at a virtual pet shop, movie theater, etc.
As a certified positive discipline parent educator, I much prefer instilling intrinsic motivation in kids. This said, there are parental controls available so that your child cannot “spend” without your permission and involvement.
Lastly, although every activity has an educational component, it is still screen time. Children ages 2 to 5 should generally spend no more than 1 hour on screens per day. While that’s plenty of time to engage with the ABC Mouse curriculum, families may wish to consider scaling back other screentime to make room for the program.
The last thing you need to know about choosing a homeschool preschool curriculum
While choosing the “right” homeschool preschool curriculum feels like a big decision, know this: Learning at home happens 24/7, not just within your chosen program.
My advice is to go with your gut, choose a curriculum, and get started with your new routine. Don’t overthink it. Preschoolers are naturally curious. They’ll learn through your activities and lessons as well as the simple moments you spend with one another.
Keep connection as a top priority. You are enough for your preschooler. I wish you loads of laughs and learning as you embark on this incredible learning journey!
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