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Discover expert resources on outdoor pursuits, physical education, and wellness for homeschoolers. We curate the best free and paid resources to support active learning and healthy living. Explore our guides and tools to enrich your homeschooling experience with activities that promote physical fitness, well-being, and a love for the outdoors. Created by teachers-turned-homeschool parents, The Paper Cabin is here to empower your journey in nurturing a healthy, active lifestyle. Outdoor Pursuits, Physical Education & Wellness Discover expert resources on Outdoor Pursuits, Physical Education, and Wellness for homeschoolers. We have handpicked the best free and paid resources to support active learning and healthy living. Explore our guides and tools to enrich your homeschooling experience with activities that promote physical fitness, well-being, and a love for the outdoors. Outdoor Pursuits Phys. Ed & Sports Health & Wellness Outdoor Pursuits (Listed Alphabetically) Exploring Nature with Children "Exploring Nature With Children" is a remarkable teaching resource that offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to nature-based education. The curriculum guides parents and educators in seamlessly integrating nature studies into learning, fostering curiosity and environmental awareness. The book includes weekly themes, guided activities, book suggestions, and hands-on projects that make learning about the natural world both educational and enjoyable. With its well-organized layout and thoughtful content, "Exploring Nature With Children" becomes an essential tool for those seeking to instill a deep appreciation for nature in children while nurturing their understanding of science and the environment. John Muir Laws Website The John Muir Laws website is a treasure trove of resources for nature enthusiasts, educators, and artists. The website's content is centered around nature journaling, offering a wealth of tutorials, tips, and guides on how to observe and document the natural world through art and writing. Led by John Muir Laws' philosophy of fostering a deeper connection with nature through observation and sketching, the website encourages individuals to engage with their surroundings in a mindful and artistic manner. This resource is invaluable for anyone seeking to develop their nature journaling skills, enhance their appreciation for the environment, and embrace a more intentional and creative approach to experiencing the outdoors. Be sure to check out their Educator Resources, and the fantastic free download “How to Teach Nature Journaling .” The Outdoor Learning School and Store This site offers ongoing Free webinars over a multitude of themes relating to outdoor education today, including: bringing education outdoors, connecting children to nature through Indigenous Teachings, and Sustainability and Climate Change. They offer a selection of quality books and materials for sale as well, and are a valuable resource for homeschool families. Wild + Free The Wild + Free group is a vibrant international community of homeschooling parents who share a common philosophy rooted in the belief that children thrive when connected with nature and engaged in creative learning experiences. This community operates both online and offline, fostering connections through social media platforms, local gatherings, and an annual conference. Wild + Free offers a plethora of resources, including podcasts, articles, and guides that align with their philosophy, encouraging a child-led, holistic education. Members of the Wild + Free community gain inspiration, support, and a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals who prioritize fostering a love for learning through nature, creativity, and community connections. Look for a local Wild + Free group in your community, and connect via their online portal. Physical Education & Sports (Listed Alphabetically) ACE Fitness Exercise Database and Library The ACE Fitness Database and Library is a comprehensive resource that provides a wide range of exercises, workouts, and fitness information for individuals of all fitness levels. The content includes detailed descriptions, images, and videos, offering guidance on proper exercise techniques and routines. Rooted in the philosophy of promoting safe and effective physical activity, ACE Fit emphasizes evidence-based practices and personalized fitness plans. This resource is invaluable for anyone seeking to improve their fitness and overall well-being, as it offers a plethora of exercises and workouts that can be tailored to individual goals, making it a trusted and versatile tool for achieving a healthier lifestyle. Cosmic Kids Yoga The Cosmic Kids yoga program on YouTube is a delightful and engaging platform designed to introduce children to the world of yoga and mindfulness. The content features a series of interactive yoga adventures that combine storytelling, movement, and relaxation techniques. Rooted in the philosophy of promoting physical activity, mental well-being, and emotional regulation, Cosmic Kids yoga encourages children to explore their bodies and emotions while fostering a sense of calm and focus. This program is an excellent resource for parents and educators seeking to help children develop mindfulness, flexibility, and self-awareness through imaginative and enjoyable yoga sessions. (Please note that because of the nature of YouTube, we encourage parents to review for content-appropriateness and be mindful of pop-ups that may not be suitable for children). PE Central The PE Central website is a comprehensive hub for physical education resources and ideas, catering to educators, parents, and students alike. The website offers a vast range of content, including lesson plans, activities, assessment tools, and professional development resources for physical education teachers, but resources can be easily adapted for homeschoolers. Grounded in the philosophy of promoting lifelong physical activity and healthy living, PE Central provides innovative and engaging resources to foster students' physical, mental, and social well-being. This is a great resource for educators and parents seeking to enhance their physical education curricula, providing a wealth of ideas and tools that ensure active, enjoyable, and well-rounded learning experiences. PE With Joe The PE With Joe playlist is found on the YouTube site The Body Coach TV with Joe Wicks . These videos for children, which were created during 2020, provide a series of short, energetic and fun exercise routines for families seeking to keep kids active without the need for any specialized equipment. This playlist is an excellent resource for parents looking to incorporate regular physical activity into their children's routines, encouraging healthy habits and a positive attitude towards exercise but we remind parents to monitor Youtube for possible pop-ups and un-related mature content. The Playworks Games Library This searchable website offers an impressive collection of inclusive and engaging games for children, educators, and parents. The content features a wide range of games with detailed instructions and variations, encouraging active play and social interaction. Rooted in the philosophy of promoting positive play experiences to develop essential life skills, the Playworks Games Library emphasizes teamwork, cooperation, and physical activity. This website serves as an excellent resource for parents and educators seeking to facilitate playful learning, offering a variety of games that contribute to children's overall development while making learning enjoyable and meaningful. Health & Wellness (Listed Alphabetically) Amaze.org The Amaze.org website offers a valuable and comprehensive resource for sex education and healthy relationships for young people. The content includes a wide range of videos, articles, and resources that cover topics related to puberty, consent, LGBTQ+ issues, relationships, and more. Amaze.org's philosophy centers around providing accurate, age-appropriate, and inclusive information to empower young individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. This website is an essential resource for parents, educators, and young people themselves, as it addresses important topics in a respectful and informative manner, contributing to a safer and healthier understanding of sexuality and relationships. Dawn Huebner Books The “Facing Mighty Fears” series of books, as well as the book “Outsmarting Worry: An Older Kid’s Guide to Managing Anxiety” by Dr. Dawn Huebner , all stand out as exceptional resources for kids dealing with anxieties, phobias and fears. These books are engaging, funny, and written in a way that relates to kids. Highly recommended! GoZen! The GoZen website and program offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to helping children develop resilience and manage anxiety, worry, anger, and negative thinking. Through a combination of animated videos, games, and activities, GoZen introduces children to practical strategies and coping mechanisms that promote emotional well-being. The program is rooted in a philosophy of empowering children with the skills they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence. With its user-friendly interface and evidence-based content, GoZen provides parents and educators with a valuable resource to support children in building emotional resilience and fostering a positive mindset. Self-Love Rainbow Self-Love Rainbow is a supportive online space dedicated to self-care and mental health, created by Dominee Calderon. The site offers a variety of resources including blog posts, self-care challenges, and printables designed to help individuals cultivate self-love and emotional well-being. Dominee also shares personal insights and practical advice, making the content relatable and accessible. Additionally, the site features a shop with products and a book aimed at further promoting self-love practices. Superpowered The book Superpowered: Transform Anxiety into Courage, Confidence, and Resilience by Renee Jain and Shefali Tsabary is aimed at children ages 8-15, but can also be a great reference for older kids and adults. Their book discusses the realities of having anxiety and offers practical, easy methods to help kids cope and ways to build resilience! Easy to read, and highly recommended! Health and Wellness Phys Ed & Sports Outdoor Pursuits Up

Understanding homeschool philosophies is helpful for guiding and aligning educational goals with family values. It helps parents choose methods suited to their child’s learning style, ensuring consistency and engagement. Familiarity with various approaches enables flexibility, adaptation, and connection with supportive communities. Overall, it provides the foundation of a curated, enjoyable, and personalized homeschooling experience. Homeschool Philosophies Understanding some of the popular methodologies may help you determine your unique homeschool style. A homeschool philosophy is a guiding framework that reflects your values, beliefs, and goals regarding your child's education. It shapes the overall approach to teaching and learning in your homeschool environment, influencing curriculum choices, teaching methods, and educational priorities. Homeschool philosophies differ in their various approaches to how subject matter is taught and the types of assessment used. Having a homeschool philosophy is important because it provides a structured framework for your child’s education, ensuring consistency and coherence in teaching methods and curriculum choices. It helps align the educational approach with your family's values, beliefs, and goals, creating a more personalized and meaningful learning experience. A clear philosophy guides decision-making and keeps the educational journey focused and intentional. It also helps in adapting teaching strategies to your child's unique learning style and needs, promoting more effective and engaging learning. Finally, having a homeschool philosophy can give you confidence and clarity in your homeschooling journey, making it easier to stay committed and motivated. Note: You don't need to know which philosoph(ies) you best align with to begin homeschooling. Start with resources you feel are academically solid, and t ake time to observe and notice how your family learns (and how you teach) best. You may find that you gravitate toward different home education styles depending on the age(s) of your child(ren) and the number of years that you've been homeschooling. It's quite common for families to try out different philosophies and/or borrow elements from several different philosophies in order to create methodologies that are unique and work for them. Some common philosophies include (click for info): Brave Writer Lifestyle Charlotte Mason Classical (Academic) Education Eclectic Montessori Morning Basket Homeschooling Project-Based Learning Reggio Emilia Traditional Tidal Homeschooling Unit Study Homeschooling Unschooling Waldorf Refining your homeschool philosophy over time allows for a dynamic and meaningful educational journey, helping you stay motivated and confident as you navigate the evolving landscape of homeschooling while being responsive to your family's needs.

Explore our curated collection of top-quality homeschool resources and materials designed for Social Studies. We’ve carefully chosen these resources based on content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-based educational methodologies. This selection provides a solid foundation for developing an engaging and comprehensive Social Studies curriculum for your family, ensuring effective learning and a well-rounded understanding of History, Geography, and Cultural Studies. Social Studies, History & Geography Discover our handpicked selection of leading homeschool resources in Social Studies, History, and Geography! We've carefully chosen our favourites for their content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-backed educational methods. Our curated collection offers a trusted starting point for developing an engaging and comprehensive Social Studies curriculum for your family, ensuring effective learning and a well-rounded understanding of History, Geography, and Cultural Studies. SS, History & Geography Curricula Supplementary Social Studies Canadian Social Studies Resources History Books for Homeschoolers Social Studies, History & Geog Social Studies, History & Geography Curricula (Listed Alphabetically) Anti-Social Studies AntiSocialStudies.org offers engaging, thoughtfully designed history courses that encourage students to think critically about the past and how it shapes the present. The site includes structured courses focused on U.S. history (complete asynchronous online courses as well as curriculum options for teachers), as well as a wide range of AP World History content, which can be accessed through the Classroom Resources page. There's also a corresponding Anti-Social Studies YouTube page with a huge selection of video playlists. Overall, it is a strong option for learners who want history that goes beyond memorization and invites deeper understanding. Build Your Library The Build Your Library Curriculum offers secular homeschooling resources that seamlessly integrate literature-based learning across various subjects. Its main features include thoughtfully curated book lists, comprehensive lesson plans, and hands-on activities that span a wide range of academic disciplines. They also have a fantastic YouTube channel called ARRRGH Schooling that provides book talks, book reviews and homeschooling tips. What sets this curriculum apart is its ability to foster a love for learning through engaging narratives, critical thinking prompts, and creative projects. Homeschool parents should consider using Build Your Library to provide a well-rounded and captivating education, as it not only ensures academic excellence but also nurtures a lifelong passion for reading, exploration and discovery in their children. Curiosity Chronicles Curiosity Chronicles offers a secular, inclusive, and global history curriculum for children, presented through engaging dialogues between characters Mona and Ted. The program covers ancient to modern history, fostering critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections through hands-on activities, such as map work, art projects, and science experiments. It emphasizes cultural history and social movements, making complex ideas accessible and encouraging in-depth exploration. This curriculum is ideal for homeschoolers seeking a comprehensive and interactive approach to teaching history. Digital Inquiry Group The Digital Inquiry Group (formerly the Stanford History Education Group) provides FREE research-based, evidence-informed curriculum designed to build historical thinking and digital literacy through structured inquiry. Its History Lessons section (Reading Like a Historian) uses primary sources to help students analyze competing perspectives and develop evidence-based arguments about the past, while the History Assessments section (Beyond the Bubble) offers short, targeted tasks that quickly measure students’ ability to interpret historical evidence and think like historians. The COR (Civic Online Reasoning) section focuses on evaluating online information, teaching students how to assess credibility, claims, and evidence in the digital world using real-world examples of misinformation and media. For additional critical thinking materials, educators can also explore the resources listed on our Study Skills, Philosophy, and Critical Thinking page. Those looking for Canadian-focused assessment-style history lessons similar in structure and approach may also want to explore the To The Past website. Mint and Bloom Mint and Bloom Learning is an exceptional option for secular, progressive curriculum grounded in literature, art, and creative activity-based lessons. Their Power of the People U.S. History program features a 26‑week journey through overlooked social movements and activists, pairing each chapter of Rad American History A‑Z with projects, discussion prompts, videos, and critical thinking exercises. They’ve also released a full-year Big World History curriculum for elementary and middle grades, covering global history from prehistory to modern times in 36 weeks of richly illustrated, empathy‑driven lessons paired with reading and video suggestions, discussion topics, and print‑and‑go creative tasks. All curricular programs are designed to be easy to use and flexible, offering differentiated materials that centre diverse perspectives while empowering learners to explore history as an inclusive, engaging, and creative process. We also really love their Melancholy Grammar series! Mr. Filiplic Mr. Filiplic is a Canadian Social Studies teacher who has created a fantastic YouTube channel with organized playlists for students in Grades 7, 8 & 9 based on the Alberta Programs of Study. His FREE course videos walk students through key concepts that include Canadian history, citizenship, intercultural contact, worldviews, and how political and economic systems shape the quality of life in Canada and beyond. He also shares practical tech how-to videos and hosts the Stick Around Soundwaves podcast (an engaging podcast for parents, teachers, and students that discusses big ideas in Social Studies and Technology). If you're looking for clear, Canadian content to support your Social Studies program, his channel is well-worth a visit! OER The Big History Project The OER Project (Open Educational Resources) offers FREE, comprehensive social studies curricula, including the Big History Project the World History Project, and The Climate Project, among others. Designed to engage students in critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, its resources are aligned with state standards and include a mix of videos, texts, and interactive activities, making history accessible and interesting. The flexibility of the platform allows it to be used in various educational settings, including homeschooling. This makes it an excellent option for homeschoolers seeking a structured yet adaptable history curriculum. Pandia Press Pandia Press offers comprehensive and engaging history curricula through its History Odyssey and History Quest series, tailored for various educational levels. These programs provide a secular and multidisciplinary approach, integrating history with language arts and geography. The curricula are designed to facilitate independent learning, making them ideal for homeschoolers. Pandia Press' history programs are known for their thorough content and hands-on activities, fostering a deep understanding of historical events and contexts. To The Past The To The Past website offers FREE thoughtfully designed Canadian history resources that help students move beyond memorizing facts and into analyzing evidence, primary sources, and historical perspectives. It is designed primarily for high school learners, making it a strong fit for older students who are ready for more critical, inquiry-based history work. The lessons focus on building historical thinking skills through engaging activities on topics like Confederation, Indigenous history, immigration, and the World Wars. Its downloadable assessments and structured inquiry approach make it a useful option for families looking to bring deeper historical thinking and source analysis into their studies. For Americans looking for similar materials, check out the Digital Inquiry Group website. Supplementary Social Studies & History Resources (Listed Alphabetically) Compilation of Anti-Racism Resources by Blossom and Root This curated guide for homeschoolers offers age-appropriate books, lesson ideas, discussion tools, and other resources, to help families teach anti-racism, celebrate diversity, and foster meaningful conversations about equity and inclusion in their learning at home. Crash Course CrashCourse History, available on YouTube, offers engaging and comprehensive video lessons covering a wide range of historical topics and periods. The series uses animations and a fast-paced narrative to make complex historical events and themes accessible and entertaining for viewers. This educational resource is particularly valuable for students and teachers looking to enhance their understanding of history in an enjoyable format. Again, remember to watch for commercials on the YouTube platform. Curiosity Stream Curiosity Stream is a streaming service that offers a vast library of documentaries covering topics like science, history, nature, and technology. Founded by the creator of the Discovery Channel, John Hendricks, it provides educational content designed to inspire and enlighten curious minds. With affordable subscription plans, Curiosity Stream is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore high-quality, informative documentaries. Its user-friendly platform makes it accessible for viewers of all ages, making learning engaging and enjoyable. History Plus Online We can’t say enough good things about Daniel and the History Plus team! His monthly subscription-based program offers informative, hilarious, and totally engaging videos and educational resources—with a refreshing Canadian perspective. Designed for kids ages 8–11 and 12–18, the lessons rotate through a three-year cycle of History, Science, and Geography—all taught through a historical lens—so students can keep learning year after year without repeating content. Daniel, a former homeschooler himself, just gets homeschoolers. He knows how to teach in a way that clicks with kids—and we’ll be honest, parents will catch themselves watching and laughing along too (we definitely do!). Live in Alberta? You're in luck—History Plus also offers in-person classes for local students! Want to explore more? Visit their website to check out their blog and watch a free sample lesson. You’ll see why we’re hooked. Horrible Histories The "Horrible Histories" books and TV show are renowned for their humorous and engaging take on historical events and figures, making history fun and accessible for children and young audiences. Created in conjunction with the BBC, the series uses witty writing, cartoons, and jokes to present facts and stories from different historical periods, often highlighting the bizarre, gory, and lesser-known aspects of history. The TV adaptation extends this approach with comedic sketches, songs, and animations, further bringing historical tales to life. Both the books and the show are praised for making learning history enjoyable and memorable. We recommend that parents review for content-appropriateness and watch for YouTube pop-ups and commercials. LesPlans LesPlan offers educational resources that help students understand and critically assess current events and issues. Their materials, such as News4Youth, Building Bridges, and What in the World?, provide differentiated learning experiences through articles available in various reading levels. They cater to students from grades 3 to 10, incorporating interactive elements and photocopiable resources for classroom use. LesPlan aims to lighten teachers' loads while making learning engaging and relevant for students. On The Mark Press The On The Mark Press serves as a valuable hub for educators searching for quality Canadian teaching resources. With its wide range of educational materials, including worksheets, lesson plans, and activities, the website provides comprehensive resources for various subjects and grade levels. On The Mark also produces products that align specifically to the Alberta, Ontario, and Common Core programs, which makes them a go-to destination for homeschoolers looking to follow specific outcomes. OverSimplified Oversimplified History is a YouTube channel that makes complex historical events accessible and entertaining through humorous and simplified animated videos. The channel covers a wide range of topics, from major wars to revolutions, making history engaging for viewers. Its fun and easy-to-understand format makes it an excellent educational tool, particularly for students and casual learners who find traditional history lessons challenging. While OverSimplified History is engaging and educational, it occasionally includes mild bad language and humor that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Parents should exercise discretion, ensuring the content is appropriate as these videos are recommended for older children and teenagers who can better understand the context and nuances of the humor and language used. WeTeachNYC is an online platform developed by the New York City Department of Education which provides curriculum materials, lesson plans, professional learning resources, and tools tailored to support instruction in NYC public schools. Despite being focused on Public Schools in NYC, we'd like to highlight their Hidden Voices series, which encourages students to explore marginalized communities and connect historical narratives to present-day issues. In addition, their Hidden Voices: LGBTQ+ Stories in United States History highlights people who challenged norms around gender and sexuality, offering ready-to-use lesson plans, visuals, and media to support meaningful classroom conversations. These resources help all educators diversify their teaching and bring historically underrepresented voices into focus. History Book Suggestions (Middle and High School) Canadian Curricula, Books and Resources Book lists by Mint and Bloom Learning U.S. History Books A Different Mirror for Young People: A History of Multicultural America (For Young People) by Rebecca Stefoff and Ronald Takaki A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn A True History of the United States: Indigenous Genocide, Racialized Slavery, Hyper-Capitalism, Militarist Imperialism, and Other Overlooked Aspects of American Exceptionalism by Daniel A. Sjursen A Young People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn and Rebecca Stefoff An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, Jean Mendoza, and Debbie Reese. Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America by Michael Harriot Borderlands and the Mexican American Story by David Dorado Romo Colonization and the Wampanoag Story by Linda Coombs How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States by Daniel Immerwahr Made in Asian America: A History for Young People by Erika Lee and Christina Soontornvat Our History Has Always Been Contraband: In Defense of Black Studies , edited by Colin Kaepernick, Robin D. G. Kelley, and Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor. Available as a free ebook here. Slavery and the African American Story by Patricia Williams Dockery World History Books 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles Mann Africa Is Not a Country: Notes on a Bright Continent by Dipo Faloyin Before Columbus: The Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann The Black History Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK Books Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, Adapted for Young Readers by Isabel Wilkerson History Quest: Early Times by Lisa Hawkins History Quest: Middle Times by Lindsey Sodano History Quest: United States by Lindsey Sodano The LGBTQ+ History Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK Books Origin Story: A Big History of Everything by David Christian Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues by Jonathan Kennedy Revised and Expanded version of Absolutely Everything: A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots, and Other Things too Numerous to Mention by Christopher Lloyd Sapiens: A Graphic History Vol. 1 & 2 by Yuval Harari Stolen History: The Truth About the British Empire and How It Shaped Us by Sathnam Sanghera World History Volume 1, to 1500 by Kordas, A., J. Tatlock, B. Nelson, and R. J. Lynch Available for free here. World History, Volume 2 , from 1400 by Kordas, A., J. Tatlock, B. Nelson, and R. J. Lynch Available for free here World War II: The Definitive Visual History by Richard Holmes Supplementary Social Studies History Books for Homeschoolers Up

Getting started for the first time? Wondering what supplies you need? Probably fewer than you think! We'll help you focus on the simple resources, tools, and materials that you should have access to as you begin homeschooling. Homeschool Essentials Getting started for the first time? Wondering what supplies you need? Probably fewer than you think! Here's what we suggest. Homeschooling is all about creating a special learning journey for your children, and you don't need a ton of fancy stuff to get started. Don't worry if your homeschool doesn't look like those perfect pictures you see online – those images may be pretty, but they’re unrealistic! What matters most is the love and effort you put into teaching your kids. So, let's focus on the simple resources, tools, and materials that you should have access to as you begin homeschooling! A Place to Sit and Work Having a dedicated spot to work is a good idea. This could be the kitchen table, kitchen island, or a desk. You may find that you slowly gravitate to the couch or the floor, or even outside for certain activities or at particular times of the day, but for “bookwork” (ie. Math or Writing activities) you’ll probably want a solid surface to spread out on. You don’t need special desks or a homeschool room, but if this interests you and is within your budget (and you have the space), go for it! Setting up desks and giving kids creative free-for-all to decorate a small space can go a long way in helping kids mentally prepare for learning at home, and give them a sense of ownership towards homeschooling. It can be helpful if everyone knows where supplies are stored and having books and school materials accessible in one area. Be aware that some of your learning may still be done elsewhere, even if your kids have their own desks. Desks are great for independent work, but tables can be better for collaboration! Library Card Hopefully you’ve already got one of these, but if not, GO GET ONE! While you’re there, check your local library for online subscriptions that you can access from home. Most library consortiums offer free access to apps and websites, as well as interlibrary loan opportunities from other libraries. Remember that you may want to put interlibrary loan books on hold a few weeks ahead of when you’ll likely need them in order to ensure that they arrive in time for you to use them! School Supplies Stock up on School Supplies in the Fall during back-to-school sales and save some of the items for use later in the year. We recommend that you buy a few extra supplies and stash them under the bed (or in your homeschool cupboard!) where your kids won’t find them. Come February, your kids will think you’re a rockstar for giving them new pencil crayons in the middle of the year! Things we use that you might want to have handy: Pencils, erasers, pens, gel pens, felt markers, art pens, highlighters Paper (blank & lined) Notebooks Binders (for you and/or the kids) Folders (to store curriculum and/or kids' work) Glue, tape, glue sticks, ruler Scissors, Extra Scissors & More scissors. (*You can never have enough pairs of scissors! Write your name on them. Hide them where your kids can’t find them. You’ll be glad you did!) Sticky Notes Stapler, staples, paper clips, Art Supplies with Mixed Media paper Craft Supplies Deck of Cards & Dice Calendar and/or Planner Library books for reading aloud together, chosen with your kids' input Computer & Printer Searching for curricular options and information on your phone or tablet can get tiresome, so you may want to invest in a computer at some point. Many curricular choices are available as PDF downloads but if you choose to print yourself, the cost of ink and paper will add up (unless you have a really good printer!) Bookshelf (or Other Storage) Regardless of whether you have a dedicated school room or not, you'll want a shelf or cupboard to keep all of your homeschool materials together. Consider emptying out a kitchen cupboard, making space on an existing shelving unit, or purchasing something to hold your supplies. Support Network and Time for Yourself You can’t be “on” all the time and not burn out. In order to be able to care for others AND teach them, you’re going to need support. Surround yourself with others who “talk homeschool” -- they’ll understand what you’re going through. Be sure to carve out some time on a regular basis for yourself and do something you enjoy! Learning Plan or Road Map No matter what type of homeschool philosophy you subscribe to, you'll want to have some sort of plan. Think about what types of subjects you will cover, areas where you'd like to see growth, and consider your child's interests and abilities. Create a list of objectives for the year, and then break them down into months. Your plan can (and will!) change as you figure out what works for your family, and you'll likely need to make adjustments as you take it week by week, but it's important to have goals to keep you anchored and return to throughout the year.

We are teachers-turned-homeschool moms who provide expert reviews on curriculum to meet diverse learning needs, and offer a curated selection of high-quality academic materials and websites. Discover the best free and paid homeschooling resources designed to enhance your educational journey. Explore our comprehensive tools and guides to confidently elevate your homeschooling experience. The Paper Cabin is dedicated to empowering and supporting your homeschooling efforts. Welcome! Welcome to The Paper Cabin! We are a women-owned startup dedicated to supporting homeschool families with high-quality, practical, and customizable resources. As certified teachers-turned-homeschool-moms, we understand the challenges of homeschooling and are committed to providing expert guidance, curated curricula, and thoughtfully designed materials. All of our own products are proudly written in Canada, and while we currently use an international platform for distribution, we are actively seeking affordable Canadian alternatives. However, we also recognize that the best homeschool experience often comes from a mix of resources, so our carefully curated resource library includes recommendations from a variety of countries, always prioritizing content accuracy, expert authorship, and strong educational pedagogy. At The Paper Cabin, we celebrate the uniqueness of every child and strive to make homeschooling more accessible, enjoyable, and effective for families everywhere. Our Story We’re Carley and Lyndsay, two Canadian educators who are now homeschooling our own children. We met shortly after we both decided to homeschool, and became fast friends over the fact that we wanted to provide a more authentic and personalized learning experience for our children. After working in classroom settings for many years, we believe that education should be a journey of discovery, exploration, and creativity, and we strive to provide our children with a learning environment that combines curiosity and academics while fostering a natural love of learning. As homeschoolers, we're able to use our values to guide the education we curate for our families. We are committed to growing our understanding of diversity, promoting and living inclusively, and exposing our children to high-quality educational materials that support their unique learning needs. We’re passionate about authentic learning, and believe that real-world experiences are the best way to help our children connect with their learning and see its relevance to their lives. We strive to create hands-on, experiential learning opportunities and are constantly seeking new ways to make learning engaging, exciting, and meaningful. Overall, we are dedicated educators and lifelong learners ourselves, who are committed to providing our children with a high-quality, personalized education that grows decent humans with consideration for all people, fosters a love of learning and nature, and prepares them for success in life. We love empowering parents and would be honoured to help you on your journey!

Explore our curated collection of top-quality homeschool resources and materials. We've narrowed down our favourites based on content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-based educational pedagogy to provide you with a starting point when looking for quality homeschool curricula for your family. Novel Studies, Literature & Booklists This thoughtfully chosen selection of Novel Studies, Literature, and Booklists will help you find the best materials to enrich your family’s reading journey and support quality literature-based curricula. We have carefully selected our favourites based on content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-supported educational practices. With these resources, you can confidently guide your child's literary development and foster a lifelong love of reading. Novel Studies Booklists Selection Tools Teaching Reading eBooks & Read-Aloud Stories Audiobooks Writing Programs Novel Studies and Literature (Listed Alphabetically) Bravewriter Literature Singles Although the Bravewriter programs are primarily focused on writing development, they are also heavily based on literature. Families who are looking for a novel-study may want to consult the Bravewriter list of suggested books for various age groups. Exploring the World Through Story Exploring the World Through Story offers a captivating and innovative secular world literature curriculum. This curriculum employs techniques taught in the highly recognized writing methodology books, The Writing Revolution (Hochman), as well as The Writing Rope (Sedita) in a way that’s engaging for students and parents alike. By intertwining world literature with writing skills, literary analysis, memory work, and word study, the program not only develops students' reading comprehension and writing skills, but also fosters cross-cultural awareness. The carefully curated selection of stories from diverse backgrounds opens up new horizons and encourages global citizenship, making it an enriching educational experience that goes beyond traditional literature studies. For a detailed parent review, click here . Lit and More Lit and More by Gina Kortuem offers a variety of engaging and comprehensive resources for English Language Arts educators. The store includes lesson plans, activities, and assessments designed to enhance literature and language instruction for middle and high school students. These resources are crafted to support effective teaching and make ELA content more accessible and enjoyable for students. LitHouse Learning Lit House Learning impresses with its innovative and dynamic curriculum that redefines novel studies. Through a combination of activities supported pedagogically through The Writing Revolution (Hochman) method, the program provides an array of novels as well as history sources to work from. With its engaging approach, Lit House Learning offers a refreshing and effective way to engage with literature while honing essential writing skills. Moore English Kristi Moore provides a collection of novel studies, literary criticism and abridged text resources for middle and high school teachers and students. Prestwick House Literature Guides Huge selection of literature resources for novel, film, grammar, writing, and vocabulary study. Check out their free teacher page, as well as their blog. S J Brull This site offers a diverse range of novel study units specifically designed for secondary English Language Arts (ELA) educators. These materials include detailed lesson plans, engaging activities, and thorough assessments aimed at enhancing the learning experience for middle and high school students. The resources are crafted to support effective ELA instruction, providing valuable tools for educators. Explore fresh ideas to make literature more accessible and enjoyable for students, with a focus on innovative teaching methods. It also features a blog with tips and insights to support ELA educators in enhancing their instructional practices. Booklists (Lists of books for various readers) (Listed Alphabetically) 49th Kids The 49th Kids website is a comprehensive online resource featuring thousands of Canadian-authored children's and young adult books. The website offers curated lists categorized by age and genre, making it easy to find appropriate reading material. It also includes resources for teachers, book lists for specific themes, and updates on new releases. With its focus on Canadian literature, 49th Kids supports literacy and promotes diverse voices in children's and YA literature. We especially recommend signing up for their booklist and resource materials about Residential Schools . Bravewriter Book Lists Although the Bravewriter programs are primarily focused on writing development, they are also heavily literature based. Families who are looking for suggested books to read may want to consult the Bravewriter list (organized by age groups). Library of Congresss Read.gov, hosted by the Library of Congress, offers a wealth of resources to promote reading and literacy across all age groups. It features classic books available for online reading, reading lists, and educational resources tailored for kids, teens, and adults. The site also highlights literacy awards, author webcasts, and special projects like "Books That Shaped America." Through its extensive collection and engaging content, Read.gov aims to inspire a love for reading and lifelong learning. Literacy with Lesley Retired teacher Lesley Roessing has a huge selection of diverse book suggestions for students in grades 4-12 and provides a wealth of information about teaching Language Arts. She was a school teacher for 20 years, and is a published author, teacher trainer and speaker. Her site focuses on providing various reading, writing, and vocabulary strategies, as well as public speaking techniques for students, teaching poetry, and helping students write effective research papers. What sets Lesley’s site apart, however, is her massive booklist of current Young Adult and Teen titles. Lesley focuses on providing reviews for newly released YA novels and memoirs, including books that contain characters whose backgrounds include diverse cultures, ethnicities, physical differences, learning disabilities, gender identifications and socioeconomic statuses. Follow Lesley Roessing or #TalkingTexts on Facebook for current posts and reviews. Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Lists The Excellence in Reading program by Mensa for Kids provides curated book lists organized by age and reading level to encourage strong, independent reading habits. The lists focus largely on classic and well-known titles and offer a structured way for students to track reading progress and work toward a completion goal. While these lists have not been updated in recent years, they remain a solid starting point and a reasonably well-curated collection of literature. We recommend that parents research individual titles for age suitability, content, and themes, and supplement the lists with newer, more modern books to better reflect current perspectives. The Book Whisperer - Donalyn Miller The Book Whisperer website, created by Donalyn Miller, provides resources and insights for fostering a love of reading in students. Miller, a renowned educator and author, shares strategies and tools for creating engaging reading communities. We highly recommend her books, "The Book Whisperer" and "Reading in the Wild ," which offer practical advice for encouraging independent reading and developing lifelong reading habits. The site is an excellent resource for parents and educators seeking to inspire children to become passionate readers. Follow her on Instagram @donalynm The Book Wrangler This children's librarian has one of the best collections of book suggestions for students! He has a fantastic set of printables called "What to Read Next" and also provides a huge selection of FREE literacy materials on his linktree account. In addition, he sells novel studies and literacy materials on his Teachers Pay Teachers page or follow him on Instagram. The Canadian Children's Book Centre This is an online resource providing free access to a diverse collection of Canadian children's fiction and literature. It features a wide array of books categorized by age group, genre, and themes, making it easy for parents, educators, and children to find suitable reading material. The platform aims to promote literacy and a love of reading by offering high-quality, culturally relevant books. Additionally, it includes resources for educators and parents to enhance the reading experience. Notable book banks to review include the "Accessible Books Bank, " "Best Books Book Bank, " and a helpful "How to Choose a Book " guide. These can be found under the "Find Books " heading in the menu. The Online Literature Library This website offers a comprehensive searchable database collection of classic literature, including works by renowned authors such as Shakespeare, Dickens, and Austen. The site is user-friendly, allowing readers to easily navigate and access a wide range of texts for free. Each author's page includes biographical information and a complete list of their works, providing valuable context for readers. This resource is excellent for students, educators, and literature enthusiasts seeking to explore classic literature online. Where to Find Diverse Books The "Where to Find Diverse Books" section on the We Need Diverse Books website offers a comprehensive list of resources for discovering diverse literature. It includes links to curated booklists, book subscription services, and bookstores that specialize in diverse books. The page also highlights organizations and initiatives that promote diversity in children's and young adult literature. This makes it an invaluable resource for educators, parents, and readers looking to expand their access to inclusive and representative books. Tools for Selecting High-Quality Books (Listed Alphabetically) American Indians in Children's Literature The website "American Indians in Children's Literature" provides critical insights into how Native American cultures are represented in children's literature. The website features a valuable tool that enables users to evaluate a book by title and author to identify potential biases and inaccuracies, thereby enhancing understanding of the subject matter and highlighting key elements to consider when seeking accurate information in children's literature. The blog explores the accuracy and impact of these representations, examining both positive and negative portrayals. In particular, it includes detailed analyses of works by various authors, including Debbie Bertram, focusing on how their books address or misrepresent Native American themes and characters. Through these analyses, the blog aims to promote a more respectful and accurate understanding of Native cultures in children's literature. Booklists Novel Studies Selection Tools Up

We are teachers-turned-homeschool moms who understand the need for Homeschool Parent Professional Development. We provide expert reviews on curriculum to meet diverse learning needs, and offer a curated selection of high-quality academic materials and websites. Discover the best free and paid homeschooling PD resources and explore our comprehensive tools and guides to confidently elevate your homeschooling experience. The Paper Cabin is dedicated to empowering and supporting homeschool parents. Professional Development for Homeschool Parents We are teachers-turned-homeschool moms who understand the need for Homeschool Parent Professional Development. Equip yourself with the tools and insights needed to elevate your educational practice and your confidence to effectively support your family's learning journey. Our expertly curated collection of top-quality materials are designed to enhance your skills and knowledge as a homeschooling parent. We’ve carefully selected our favourites based on their content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-based educational approaches. These resources provide a valuable starting point for professional growth and effective homeschooling strategies. The Paper Cabin is dedicated to empowering and supporting homeschooling parents. PD for Educators PD for Language Arts PD for Math General Homeschool PD Parent Wellness PD Why Professional Development for Homeschool Parents? As homeschool parents, it's important to stay updated on educational strategies, curriculum advancements, and effective teaching methods in order to ensure your children receive the best education possible. Equally important is self-care, which helps you manage stress, avoid burnout, and maintain your well-being, allowing you to be a patient and effective educator. Balancing professional growth and personal health creates a positive and sustainable homeschooling environment. Prioritizing both aspects will benefit both you and your children in the long run. Professional Development for Educators (General / Multi-subject) EdWeb EdWeb is a professional learning network that offers free webinars, resources, and community support for educators across a wide range of topics. While it’s designed with classroom teachers in mind, homeschool parents can also benefit from its expert-led sessions on literacy, technology, student engagement, and more. The platform makes it easy to stay current with best practices and gain fresh ideas without committing to formal training. For homeschool educators looking to grow their skills and confidence, EdWeb provides accessible, ongoing professional development from the comfort of home (and they provide certificates of completion for each session that you attend!) TeachersFirst TeachersFirst is a long-running, teacher-created resource hub filled with thousands of free lesson plans, curated web tools, and classroom-ready activities across all subjects and grade levels. It’s especially helpful for quickly finding vetted online resources, interactive ideas, and themed units without having to sort through low-quality content yourself. The site also includes professional development, ed-tech guidance, and practical teaching tips, making it a well-rounded support tool for both new and experienced educators. For homeschool parents, it offers a rich collection of ready-to-use materials and inspiration to supplement and enhance everyday learning. Professional Development for Language Arts (Listed Alphabetically) Literacy With Lesley This website and blog is a wealth of information about teaching Language Arts to students in grades 4-12. Lesley was a school teacher for 20 years, and is a published author, teacher trainer and speaker. Her site focuses on providing various reading, writing, and vocabulary strategies, as well as public speaking techniques for students, teaching poetry, and helping students write effective research papers. What sets Lesley’s site apart, however, is her massive booklist of current Young Adult and Teen titles. Lesley focuses on providing reviews for newly released YA novels and memoirs, including books that contain characters whose backgrounds include diverse cultures, ethnicities, physical differences, learning disabilities, gender identifications and socioeconomic statuses. Follow Lesley Roessing or #TalkingTexts on Facebook for current posts and reviews. The Measured Mom - Science of Reading Lists Booklist suggestions for parents interested in learning more about the Science of Reading, Literacy Development, Dyslexia and more! Reading Rockets Reading Rockets is an extensive resource dedicated to helping children learn to read and enhancing literacy skills. It provides a variety of research-based strategies, instructional videos, and classroom materials to support educators and parents. The site includes self-paced learning modules, book recommendations, and activities designed to engage young readers and address diverse learning needs. Additionally, Reading Rockets offers expert advice on helping struggling readers and creating inclusive classroom environments. The Science of Reading This website is an excellent place to start if you’re interested in learning more about the Science of Reading. This huge collection of articles and videos is categorized into sections for those starting their journey in reading instruction, as well as provides information for those seeking details on teaching Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Reading Comprehension. They also provide information about Assessment, Intervention, Writing Instruction, and Learning Pedagogy as well as book recommendations for further study. Overall, this site provides a huge array of information related to reading instruction and is worth perusing. Sold a Story This podcast series examines the way that reading has been taught in North America over the past couple of decades, and why school boards and teachers have been using and promoting reading methodologies that go against brain research about learning. This is an excellent resource, and worth listening to for all parents – especially those whose children are learning to read! The Syntax Project This material correlates with the book The Writing Revolution, providing lessons and supplementary activities for teachers using the text. The project's tools provide interactive exercises that align with The Writing Revolution's focus on building strong writing skills through structured practice. By integrating these resources, users can enhance their understanding of grammar and syntax, leading to more effective and coherent writing. Word Connections (Dr. Jessica Toste) Word Connections, created by Dr. Jessica Toste, is a supplemental reading intervention program designed for upper elementary students struggling with word reading. The program focuses on multisyllabic word reading through engaging activities that promote automaticity and comprehension. It includes 40 lessons divided into four units, integrating various instructional activities such as word play, affix banks, and text reading to enhance students' decoding skills. The program is based on evidence from empirical studies showing its effectiveness in improving reading outcomes for at-risk students. The Writing Revolution (Hochman and Wexler) The Writing Revolution textbook and website provide a transformative approach to teaching writing skills across all subject areas. Rooted in cognitive science, the program employs evidence-based methodology and practical, scaffolded tools in their strategies to help teachers effectively teach students the fundamental building blocks of writing, leading to improved expression and communication abilities. This program teaches structured, systematic writing that empowers students to become confident writers. The website provides professional development courses, as well as a large collection of resources, practice sheets and templates which supplement the book. In addition, parents may find The Syntax Project (see below), Exploring the World Through Story & Lit House Learning all provide curricula that supports The Writing Revolution. The Writing Rope (Sedita) The Writing Rope textbook integrates various skills and strategies into five core aspects of a well-rounded writing curriculum for Grades 4-8: critical thinking, sentence structure, text organization, writing technique, and transcription (spelling and handwriting). Readers will receive clear guidelines that simplify the process of teaching students to write effectively and use writing as a learning tool across subjects. With numerous downloadable templates, handouts, and resources available online, this book details the necessary tools to provide explicit and high-quality writing instruction. For video lectures based on The Writing Rope, check out these PD sessions . Professional Development for Math (Listed Alphabetically) Build Math Minds Build Math Minds is an educational platform created by Christina Tondevold, designed to help teachers and parents improve their math teaching skills. The site offers courses, resources, and professional development focused on fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through engaging and effective strategies. It emphasizes the importance of building math fluency and confidence in students by using fun, practical lessons. This resource is particularly valuable for those looking to transform traditional math instruction into a more dynamic and supportive learning experience. The platform provides resources and teaching strategies that emphasize deep understanding and fluency in math concepts, which can be particularly helpful for students with learning difficulties. By focusing on engaging, practical lessons and supportive teaching methods, it helps build confidence and competence in math for all learners. Dyscalculia.org (Brian Butterworth) Dyscalculia.org provides extensive resources for understanding and managing dyscalculia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies. The site offers practical tools and guidance for parents, educators, and students to address mathematical learning disabilities. Additionally, it features detailed information on accommodations, educational strategies, and support networks to help individuals with dyscalculia succeed academically and in daily life. Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally Recommended for parents who are interested in learning about the developmental stages of learning math. Steve Chinn Steve Chinn's website focuses on addressing dyscalculia and math learning difficulties through expert insights and resources. With a background in teaching and research, Chinn offers pragmatic and research-based methods to help students struggling with math. The site includes video tutorials, articles, and a dyscalculia checklist, all designed to enhance understanding and support effective math learning. It is a valuable resource for educators, parents, and students seeking specialized assistance in overcoming mathematical challenges. YouCubed.Org You Cubed is a great place for parents to start when teaching math! Mathematician and Professor Jo Boaler dispels all the common myths about math education and has inspired millions of teachers, parents, and students to think differently about math, especially those with math phobia! Before you teach math, take the FREE online Student Course (and get your kids to take it, too!) Boaler has also written a fantastic grade-appropriate curriculum series called Mindset Mathematics , that supports her book Mathematical Mindsets ! These are great books to have on hand for math supplementation and math activities. General Homeschooling Professional Development (Listed Alphabetically) The Brave Learner "The Brave Learner" by Julie Bogart is one of our favourites! It’s an empowering and insightful guide for homeschooling parents seeking to create a nurturing and effective learning environment. Bogart's book introduces a holistic approach that combines academic excellence with connection, creativity, and joy. Drawing from her own experiences as an homeschool mother of five children, she offers practical strategies for fostering a love of learning and embracing the uniqueness of each child. This book emphasizes building relationships, embracing curiosity, and infusing daily life with learning opportunities, while encouraging parents to trust their instincts as they homeschool. Check out Julie’s second book, Raising Critical Thinkers , for a look at how parents can help cultivate thinking and understanding in their children’s lives. The Homeschooling Starter Guide This book, by Dr. Gina M. Riley, is an excellent starting point for new families wanting to homeschool! It's a easy-to-understand book that offers practical advice and a clear pathway to creating a solid plan for getting started. Definitely worth reading! How to Homeschool the Kids You Have "How to Homeschool the Kids You Have: Advice from the Kitchen Table" by Courtney Ostaff, Jenn Naughton, and Andrew Campbell provides a comprehensive guide to creating a customized homeschooling plan. The authors, all experienced homeschoolers, share their insights and strategies for developing an effective and enjoyable educational experience tailored to each child's needs. The book emphasizes understanding how children learn, avoiding common pitfalls, and ensuring a rigorous academic foundation. It also includes personal anecdotes and practical tips to help parents navigate the complexities of homeschooling. The authors also host The Kitchen Table Podcast , which provides candid discussion of homeschooling methodologies and curricula, and they were also interviewed on the EdCircuit podcast , which parents may find helpful. Parent Wellness (Listed Alphabetically) Bodyfit by Amy Bodyfit by Amy on YouTube offers a wide range of free fitness videos, including full-body workouts, targeted exercises, and fitness challenges. Hosted by certified personal trainer Amy Kiser Schemper, the channel provides accessible and effective workouts suitable for all fitness levels. The content focuses on helping viewers achieve their fitness goals through varied, fun, and easy-to-follow routines that take 30 minutes or less to complete. Self-Love Rainbow Self-Love Rainbow is a supportive online space dedicated to self-care and mental health, created by Dominee Calderon. The site offers a variety of resources including blog posts, self-care challenges, and printables designed to help individuals cultivate self-love and emotional well-being. Dominee also shares personal insights and practical advice, making the content relatable and accessible. Additionally, the site features a shop with products and a book aimed at further promoting self-love practices. Yoga With Adriene Yoga with Adriene on YouTube provides free yoga practices, suitable for all levels, led by certified yoga instructor Adriene Mishler. The channel features hundreds of yoga videos, focusing on physical well-being, mental health, and overall wellness, with an emphasis on making yoga accessible to everyone. Adriene's personable and encouraging teaching style has garnered a large, dedicated following. PD for ELA PD for Math General Homeschooling PD Parent Wellness & Support PD for Educators Up

​​A little preparation goes a long way for homeschool days when kids are bored, someone is feeling unwell, or activities are a bust. Although it's hard to plan for these moments, you can do some simple prep now that may save you time and prevent stress down the road. Check out our tips for a proactive approach to help ensure smoother homeschooling days when life doesn’t go according to plan. Creating a Rainy Day Plan How to prepare for bad weather, sick kids and blah days! You're going to have days when kids are bored, someone is feeling unwell, or activities are a bust. Although it's hard to plan for these moments, you can do some simple prep now that may save you time and prevent stress down the road. To begin, go through your home and take inventory (create a list) of all the games and activities that you currently own, as well as ones that you’ve always wanted to do. What board games do you have? Do you have projects or kits that you haven't completed? Make a list of all of the activities that you could do right now, today, without any preparation or planning. This is what Julie Gilbert from Homeschooling-ideas.com calls the Green List in her article entitled, “ Planned Spontaneity ” . Gilbert outlines a simple 3-step process that allows parents to plan activities for homeschoolers whereby she recommends having a Green List of activities that are open-and-go and can be used anytime. Keep this list handy and draw ideas from it as needed. She also recommends having an Amber List of activities that require minimum preparation or set-up by the parent, that could be assembled fairly quickly. As you prepare the items on your Amber List, they can gradually be moved to your Green List. In addition, Gilbert advocates for having a Red List of activities that you would like to do but that require research, specific materials to be purchased, or more intense preparation. As these Red List activities are prepared, they will also gradually shift to the Amber and Green Lists. Having Green/Amber/Red lists of activities to draw from can be extremely helpful during the deschooling process, as well as during the rest of the year on rainy days, when kids get sick, or when kids are just plain uncooperative. You could also c onsider taping a large piece of paper to your wall or fridge where you (and your kids) can write ideas and suggestions for things to do. If you're a tech-person, you may want to try using a visual program like Symbaloo . Symbaloo can help you stay digitally organized by creating themed pages of weblinks that you can quickly find and refer to, as well as websites that you've safely vetted for your kids to use. In addition, you may want to create monthly lists with ideas for activities that you want to do, as well as topics to research and discuss. Include your child(ren) in this process. They may have surprising contributions! Consider seasonal events happening at your favourite local attractions (ex. Zoo, Science Centre, Library, Recreation Centre etc.) Here are some examples of Monthly list ideas: September: Learn about deciduous trees Collect leaves for leaf rubbing art Visit a corn maze Pick apples/ make apple pie Go on a Fall bike ride Make jam or pickles Visit a local Farmer's Market Melt beeswax and dip leaves and flowers for a Fall garland October: Visit a pumpkin farm Collect pinecones for crafts Learn about bats and echolocation Learn the history of Halloween and make your own decorations Read a spooky story Learn about hibernation Wondering how to keep track of rainy day plans , seasonal lists, games you want to play, activities to remember and websites to visit? We've got you covered! Check out the fully customizable Collecting Inspiration: A Homeschool Resource & Planning Notebook for an easy to use, all-in-one planning tool for busy Homeschool parents!

Wondering how you will teach your child to read? Explore our curated collection of top-quality homeschool resources and materials. We've narrowed down our favourites based on research-based educational pedagogy, accuracy, and expert authorship to provide you with a starting point when looking for quality homeschool reading resources for your family. Teaching Reading & Reading Comprehension Explore our curated selection of top-notch homeschool literacy resources and materials! We understand how crucial and challenging it is to find the right tools for Teaching Reading. That’s why we’ve carefully chosen our favourites based on content accuracy, expert authorship, and research-backed educational methods. This collection is designed to give you a solid starting point for finding the best Reading resources for your family. Teaching Reading Reading Apps & Online Practice Novel Studies & Literature Booklists Dyslexia Resources Teaching Reading & Reading Comprehension (Listed Alphabetically) All About Reading / All About Spelling (AAR: Kindergarten - Grade 4; AAS: Kindergarten - Grade 12) The All About Reading and All About Spelling programs offer open-and-go literacy education for busy families. Their structured and multi-sensory approach caters to a wide range of students, ensuring both reading and spelling skills are developed with depth and precision. The clear lesson plans and engaging activities make these programs desirable for parents and educators seeking effective tools to support students in building strong foundational reading and spelling skills. Explode the Code (Pre-K - Grade 4) Explode the Code is a reading program for parents seeking a structured and engaging approach to phonics and early literacy. Through its comprehensive series of workbooks, it systematically guides students through phonetic concepts, building a strong foundation for reading and spelling using the Orton-Gillingham approach. With its user-friendly format, clear instructions, and emphasis on incremental progress, Explode the Code offers a reliable and effective resource to ensure successful language development within a homeschooling environment. Free BOB Books Printables (Ages 4 - 8) "This Reading Mama" offers free printable resources to complement the BOB Books series, designed to help children develop early reading skills. The printables include activities and worksheets that reinforce phonics, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. These resources are ideal for parents and educators looking to support beginning readers with engaging and educational materials. Free Online Literacy Assessment (K - 8) These diagnostic tests may be able to help parents determine areas of strength and weakness in their child’s reading ability. Keep in mind that online assessments may provide initial insights but are not a substitute for expert guidance in determining the scope of a child's learning needs. We strongly feel that by utilizing any online self-diagnostic reading assessment tests, parents must acknowledge the potential for varying results and understand the importance of consulting with a qualified professional and pursuing a comprehensive psychoeducational assessment for accurate evaluation. Free Reading (Kindergarten - Grade 6) The Free Reading website offers a valuable library of free resources for educators and parents seeking free literacy materials. With a focus on early reading instruction, the platform provides a range of research-based resources, including lessons, activities, and decodable texts. Its commitment to open access and evidence-based practices makes it a valuable asset for those looking to support young readers' development. The Logic of English (Foundations: Ages 4 - 7; Essentials: Ages 8 - Adult) The Logic of English program delivers a comprehensive and well-designed curriculum that brings clarity to the intricacies of language. Through its systematic approach to phonics, grammar, and vocabulary, it empowers learners with a deep understanding of English. With a focus on logical rules and clear explanations, the program offers an excellent resource for individuals of all ages aiming to enhance their language skills in a structured and effective manner. Open Source Phonics (Pre-K - Grade 4) This site is a valuable resource for homeschool parents seeking comprehensive phonics instruction. It offers an extensive collection of open-source phonics materials, including printable worksheets, lesson plans, and interactive activities. With its free accessibility and a wide range of resources, homeschooling parents can confidently use Open Source Phonics to provide effective and engaging phonics education tailored to their children's needs. This program is especially helpful for older students who need more phonics practice in order to become fluent readers. ReadWorks (K - 12) This is an educational platform that provides free, high-quality reading comprehension resources for students and teachers. It offers a vast library of curated texts, along with vocabulary and question sets designed to improve reading skills. The platform also includes tools for tracking student progress, making it an invaluable resource for enhancing literacy in classrooms and homeschool settings. ReadWriteThink (K-12) ReadWriteThink is a free, high-quality literacy resource created by the National Council of Teachers of English, offering hundreds of lesson plans, printables, and interactive tools for teaching reading and writing. It’s thoughtfully organized by grade level, topic, and skill, making it easy to quickly find materials that align with learning goals and standards. The site blends practical classroom strategies with engaging student activities, helping bring language arts to life in a meaningful, hands-on way. For homeschool families, it’s a reliable go-to for building strong literacy skills without needing a full curriculum. Rooted in Language (Ages 5 - 9) The Rooted in Language curriculum and program offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to language development. Written by a team of Speech Language Pathologists, it provides a strong emphasis on foundational skills and effectively addresses reading and writing skills. The integration of interactive activities and real-life applications keeps learners actively involved and motivated. The curriculum's structured progression allows for personalized learning, catering to diverse needs and learning styles. Rooted in Language products provide a solid framework for nurturing language proficiency and fostering a deep understanding of linguistic concepts. They also have excellent professional development resources and classes for parents, as well as fantastic customer-service and support. Follow them on Social Media for great language tips! *We're sad to hear that Rooted in Language will be closing their doors in July 2026, and wish them all the best in their future endeavours. Products will still be available until then - see their website for details. Sound City (Kindergarten - Grade 2) Sound City Reading is a free comprehensive phonics-based reading program designed to build strong foundational reading skills through systematic instruction. The program aligns well with current science of reading research, emphasizing phonemic awareness, phonics, and structured literacy, which are crucial for effective reading instruction. It provides a step-by-step approach that reinforces the relationship between sounds and letters, aiding in the development of decoding skills. This makes Sound City Reading an effective resource for parents and educators seeking evidence-based reading instruction methods. Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons (Ages 3 - 6) "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons" by Siegfried Engelmann empowers parents to teach through a straightforward and systematic method. Its well-structured lessons take only a short time each day, making it manageable for busy schedules. With its proven approach and clear instructions, this book is an invaluable tool for fostering early literacy skills and nurturing a love for reading in young learners. The University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) (Kindergarten - Grade 2; Grade 3 intervention) The University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) stands as an authoritative and comprehensive source for literacy educators and researchers. With its wealth of free research-based resources, professional development opportunities, and practical tools, the website offers a well-rounded approach to advancing literacy education. The institute's commitment to evidence-based practices and the Science of Reading, its dedication to supporting educators make it an invaluable resource for anyone striving to enhance their understanding and implementation of effective literacy instruction. This would be our first choice if we were teaching reading! We highly recommend purchasing the UFLI Teacher's Manual . (Note: Customers in Canada may be able to avoid International shipping costs by ordering the ISBN number through a local bookstore). The UFLI Resource Hub serves as an exceptional repository of free educational materials catering to diverse learning needs. Its extensive collection of resources, ranging from lesson plans to multimedia content, covers a wide array of subjects and grade levels. With its user-friendly interface and commitment to quality, the Resource Hub is an indispensable asset for educators seeking well-curated materials to enhance their teaching strategies and engage students effectively. The UFLI Foundations Toolbox provides highly valuable free lesson plans and resources for early literacy instruction. This site includes meticulously crafted lesson plans, teaching materials, and decodable text passages and booklets which utilize a systematic approach to teaching foundational reading skills supported by science. The clear alignment with research-based practices and the user-friendly format make it an indispensable tool for educators and parents working to lay a strong literacy foundation for young learners. Word Connections (Dr. Jessica Toste) (Grades 3 - 5) Word Connections, created by Dr. Jessica Toste, is a supplemental reading intervention program designed for upper elementary students struggling with word reading. The program focuses on multisyllabic word reading through engaging activities that promote automaticity and comprehension. It includes 40 lessons divided into four units, integrating various instructional activities such as word play, affix banks, and text reading to enhance students' decoding skills. The program is based on evidence from empirical studies showing its effectiveness in improving reading outcomes for at-risk students. Words Their Way (Kindergarten - Grade 8) Words Their Way is a highly effective teaching program that emphasizes a student-centered approach to phonics and word study. Its strength lies in its adaptability, as it tailors instruction to each learner's developmental level. By focusing on word patterns and sorting activities, the program engages students in active exploration of language, promoting a deeper understanding of spelling and vocabulary that extends beyond rote memorization. This individualized and hands-on methodology makes Words Their Way a powerful tool for educators aiming to foster enduring literacy skills Reading Apps & Online Practice (Listed Alphabetically) Prodigy English (Grades 1- 6) Prodigy English is an engaging educational game focused on developing children's reading skills through interactive gameplay. Players embark on adventures and complete quests while improving their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. The game adapts to individual learning levels, providing personalized challenges to support overall English Language Arts (ELA) development. Reading Eggs (Ages 2 -13) Reading Eggs is an interactive online platform designed to help children develop essential reading skills through fun and engaging activities. It offers a variety of lessons, games, and exercises focused on phonics, sight words, and comprehension to support early literacy development. The program adapts to each child's progress, ensuring a personalized learning experience that builds confidence and a love for reading. Parents can choose from either the Canadian website , or the American website when selecting a program. Teach Your Monster to Read (Ages 3 - 6) Teach Your Monster to Read is an educational game designed to help children aged 3-6 develop their reading skills through engaging and interactive activities. It uses synthetic phonics to teach letter recognition, sound blending, and word formation, aligning with school curricula. The game’s fun narrative and bright graphics keep children motivated as they guide their custom monster through various learning levels. Reading Apps and Online Practice Teaching Reading Up

What is deschooling? How do I do it? Become aware of your preconceived notions of what school “should” be and allow your family the necessary time to deschool. Let go of some of those school-based expectations, and teach your children (and remind yourself) that learning can happen in a multitude of ways and environments, and can be enjoyable. Deschooling What is Deschooling & why is it important? You've made the decision to homeschool your child(ren). Yay! Now what? Where do you start? Consider Deschooling. Deschooling encompasses those first few weeks or months of homeschooling where you’re establishing a new norm. It's the process that your family will go through if you transition from a brick-and-mortar school environment to a home one. Deschooling is what happens when kids and parents face the necessary shift in engrained beliefs of what school “should” look like, and how it translates to learning together at home. It may involve working through the sense of loss that leaving a traditional school may bring, as well as facing the realities of being responsible for your child's education. You may have been home with your kids all summer but you'll still need to work through the mental load of not returning to school as planned. If this is your first Fall as homeschoolers, you’re likely trying to stay afloat while making sense of government regulations and learning outcomes as well as expectations of your school board, while grappling with curriculum choices, learning materials and planning models! You may be worried about establishing a routine, setting up extra-curriculars, and trying to find like-minded friends (while possibly dealing with anti-homeschool naysayers on the side). It’s a lot. A LOT! Spoiler alert: Homeschooling is not “school at home” -- we can never recreate a school environment in our homes that will replicate the exact school we have left. For some, this will be a relief, for others it will entail a type of grieving period as students and parents mourn the loss of that to which they were accustomed. The deschooling process will be different for every family, and you may choose to embrace it or not. It’s important to note that we refer to “family” deschooling, because it’s not just children that need to be deschooled, but parents as well. It's an adjustment period for everyone. After attending a traditional school for any amount of time, the general rule of thumb is that students should take approximately one month to deschool for every full year of traditional school that was attended. With this in mind, a student who completed grades K-2 in a school, will likely find the first three months of homeschooling to be challenging. Parents may also feel like they are in uncharted waters. You are, but it's okay! When we step outside of the mainstream, we may find ourselves working really hard to prove that what we're doing works and is a good choice for our family. Try to find at least one other homeschooling parent to talk to, if you feel you need support. There are so many of us out there and we LOVE to talk about homeschooling! So, What IS Deschooling? Deschooling is the temporary act of easing into a homeschool environment by taking a break from rigorous academics to establish routine, enjoy the ebb and flow of being home together, and learn some of the “softer” skills that encompass working together all day. It creates space between the brick and mortar school experience and what your homeschool will eventually look like once established. This distance is an important part of long-term homeschooling as it creates the disconnect which will remove the direct comparisons between traditional school and homeschool so that homeschooling doesn't become a school-at-home, and so that your family retains the benefits, flexibility, and individual-focused elements of homeschooling. Even if you intend to follow a highly academic homeschooling routine, deschooling can be a good place to start. Deschooling doesn’t mean that your kids aren’t learning - it means that they're engaging in unstructured learning time which can sometimes feel like they're not learning. Use this initial deschooling time to observe your child(ren) as they interact with materials to see where the learning is happening. Children are always learning, yet our perception of learning may need to broaden and shift. We're conditioned from traditional schools to have a very narrow viewpoint of what actually constitutes learning, so you may need to watch your children in-action in order to start recognizing learning when you see it. Deschooling means naturally engaging in a type of learning not valued in traditional schools (ex. bird watching, creating with Lego) and ramping up to a full schedule later. Depending on the age of your child, it may mean starting by teaching math by cooking and baking instead of sitting at the table doing workbooks. It’s about bonding with your kids by reading aloud, and talking about what you’ve read instead of filling in a worksheet or writing a 5-paragraph essay about it. It’s about coming to the realization that Physical Education can be spent running outside at the community park, swimming in the neighbourhood pool, or going on a nature walk. Deschooling is figuring out how to learn and what learning can look like when not within the walls of a school. For many, deschooling is also a time to grieve. It’s a period of time where you (or your kids) are tuned-in to the sense of loss - friendships, support groups, structure, routine - that is felt upon leaving traditional school. For parents, it can mean mourning the loss of school community - connecting with other parents during drop off and pick-up routines, chatting with teachers at the school, and being involved in the Parent Council. It can mean worrying about the loss of group classes, school pageants and assemblies, and teacher role models that will no longer be involved. It's the realization that you suddenly have to figure out how to socialize when you don't know any other homeschoolers, and all of your kids' friends are in school. For kids who have been pulled out of school, it will mean not seeing their friends every day and not going to a building where they had a “homeroom” and a teacher who cared for them. It might mean missing out on learning the routines and norms of school along with their lessons. It can take a while to accept the loss of school, and to fully embrace the new opportunities that homeschooling affords. However, through the deschooling process, you may come to realize that you can likely do projects, classes, and field trips when other kids are in school and the world is less busy. You can focus on topics of interest and go down rabbit-holes of in-depth learning. You'll probably find that your kids have the energy to engage in extracurricular activities after supper and not have to worry about waking up early to be at school the following day. While deschooling, you may discover that homeschooling allows more family time. Allow your family some grace by exploring new ways to learn, and make this time memorable for all of you. There’s no race -- taking it slowly at the beginning will pay off in the long run because you’ll have established relationships and routines that make learning at home easier. If you start homeschooling on day one with a detailed, timed, 8-hour schedule, your kids might hate you before the first week is over. Instead, allow some time to deschool and start slowly. Your kids will remember this as a positive time instead of a negative one, and you’ll be able to get a grip on what your child needs to learn and how you’re going to address those needs. Is Deschooling for Everyone? You know your family, yourself, and the demands on your time best. If a lack of structure or total departure from routine will be too much for your kids or yourself, or is not possible given your time constraints, then deschooling may not be the best option for you. That's totally fair! Go with what will work best for your unique situation. If you decide not to deschool, remember that the big feelings and emotions (especially for newly homeschooled kids that are transitioning from a brick-and-mortar school), will likely still be present, so you'll want to be aware of the emotional overload that can take place, and find ways to navigate these feelings. If creating a new routine and establishing structured homeschool expectations is your priority, then set up your new learning routines in a way that makes sense for your child and your family! How Do I Start Deschooling? Here are a few suggestions for those first few weeks: Try starting with a “passion project” on a topic that your child chooses. Ask your child to make a list of topics that they’d like to learn about, and select one to research. Read about the topic, watch videos, and do research together. Take it one step further by presenting the information in a new way (write a story, create a cartoon, make a poster, video or podcast) to share with others. Let your child take a leadership role and take ownership of their learning. Act as a facilitator who helps organize materials for the project, asks questions, and makes suggestions to develop deeper learning. Play games together - it’s amazing how many math skills are involved in playing Monopoly or Yahtzee! A few of our families' favourite math games are: Blokus, Chess, Prime Climb and Cribbage. Start or end each day with a read-aloud. No matter what age, studies show that reading aloud to your kids is beneficial. Audiobooks count, too, and may give you time to do something else while your kids are occupied. If you need book suggestions, check out these booklists or go wander around your local library and let your kids choose books to read together. Cook/Bake together. Learn to read recipes, measure, and let your child choose what to make. Practice handwriting skills by creating menus, and art skills by decorating. Let them play. Consider strewing art supplies, knitting needles, dress-up clothes, or other items around the house for kids to “find” and use. Young children learn best through play and in play-rich environments. Get outside together! Explore areas that you wouldn’t normally visit, even in winter. Use a magnifying glass, binoculars, nature journal, and/or sketchbook. For more information and free teaching materials about Nature Journaling, check out John Muir Laws ' website. His free download "How to Teach Nature Journaling " is especially great! Another fantastic resource is the 1000 Hours Outside website, which has monthly reading suggestions and hike ideas. Carve out some Me-Time. Being at home all day with your children can be challenging in its own right, but homeschooling brings it to a new level! Be sure to build some self-care into your routine during the decschooling process in order to have those anchors in place for the future. Consider doing 20 minutes of Yoga With Adriene on YouTube, do some journaling, or schedule time for a run or walk without your kids at some point in your day. Taking care of your own mental and physical health will allow you to be fully engaged with your kids and keep your stress levels regulated! Create a Rainy Day Plan! No matter how much you prepare, you'll inevitably need a multitude of activities for when things go awry! To learn how to create a useful set of backup plans, click here . Above all, when you start homeschooling, be aware of your preconceived notions of what school “should” be and allow your family the necessary time to deschool. Let go of some of those school-based expectations, and teach your children (and remind yourself) that learning can happen in a multitude of ways and environments, and can be enjoyable. Remember that you may need to start out slow and be extra flexible when learning how to learn together.

We are teachers-turned-homeschool moms who provide consulting services and planning materials. We offer curated reviews on academic homeschool curriculum to meet diverse learning needs. Discover the best free and paid homeschooling resources designed to enhance your educational journey. Explore our comprehensive tools and guides to confidently elevate your homeschooling experience. The Paper Cabin is dedicated to empowering and supporting your homeschooling efforts. Consulting At The Paper Cabin, we’re two experienced, certified teachers who now homeschool our own kids. We've spent years learning, adapting, and figuring out what really works—and we're here to help you do the same. Whether you're new to homeschooling or just need a fresh perspective, we’re happy to share ideas, tools, and support. Our goal is to help you create a homeschool that feels manageable and meaningful. Let’s make homeschooling feel a little less overwhelming — and a lot more doable. Send us an email at admin@thepapercabin.com to check availability and see if we’re the right fit for your family! What We Offer: Personalized Consultations: We understand that every family is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to homeschooling. Through one-on-one consultations, we take the time to get to know you and your family's goals, learning styles, and interests. By understanding your unique situation, we can provide tailored recommendations and strategies that will set you on the path to homeschooling success. Curriculum Guidance: Selecting the right curriculum can be daunting, especially for new homeschoolers. With a vast array of options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Let us help you navigate through the sea of choices. We will assess your children's learning preferences and your teaching style to suggest well-suited curricula that align with your family's educational philosophy. Flexible Planning: Homeschooling provides the freedom to craft a schedule that fits your family's lifestyle. We will help you create a flexible and balanced homeschooling plan, ensuring that your children receive a comprehensive education while also leaving room for exploration and personal growth. Engaging Resources: Our years of experience have allowed us to curate an extensive collection of engaging resources, learning materials, and educational tools. We will share these valuable resources with you, enriching your homeschooling experience, and inspiring your children to love learning. Enrichment Activities: Education extends beyond textbooks and lesson plans. We will introduce you to a variety of enrichment activities, from field trips and workshops to virtual learning communities, that will add depth and dimension to your homeschooling curriculum. How Our Pricing Works: We believe that nurturing your children’s education is one of the most rewarding journeys you can embark upon, and we’re honored to support you every step of the way. Our consulting fees are tailored to the specific services you request and the level of guidance you need, ensuring you receive the greatest possible value. To discuss your homeschooling goals and receive a personalized quote, please reach out to us directly at admin@thepapercabin.com . We look forward to assisting you with a plan that inspires your family and meets your unique needs. Please Note: We are not educational psychologists, speech-language pathologists, or mental health professionals and, as such, do not provide counselling or therapy services. Our expertise lies in homeschooling consultations and educational guidance. While we have experience working with neurodiverse students, it is essential to note that we are not qualified to diagnose Specific Learning Disabilities or offer formal Special Education services. However, we are more than willing to share our knowledge and insights to assist you in finding appropriate resources for your child's unique learning needs. Our primary focus is to empower homeschool parents with the knowledge and tools to create a nurturing and effective learning environment for their children. If you have any questions or concerns about our services or how we can support you on your homeschooling journey, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide assistance in any way we can.

If you’re new to homeschooling, there are several important things to consider before you begin, and especially before you spend any money. Take the time to explore different homeschooling approaches and understand your family’s needs. This initial research will help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses. By preparing thoroughly, you’ll set a solid foundation for a successful homeschooling experience. Tips for Beginners Things to consider before you begin. When our families first started homeschooling, we spent countless hours over many months reading and researching curricula. We read tons of articles and blogs online, ordered books about homeschooling, and joined multiple Facebook groups and forums to get a handle on what others were doing and the types of materials they were recommending. If you’re new to homeschooling, there are a few things you might want to do BEFORE you begin (and especially before you spend any money!). read, Read, READ as MUCH as you Can! There are a LOT of great books about homeschooling (we’ll write an upcoming post about our favourites), but If you have to pick ONE book, start with The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart, and listen to some of the Bravewriter podcasts or watch some of her free videos on YouTube . Julie is a homeschool veteran -- she homeschooled her own 5 children, and she’s pretty insightful and all-around-awesome. We feel like she “gets it” and that she truly understands what home education is all about. Start with Julie. You won’t be disappointed. Start Learning the Jargon When you first start homeschooling, you’ll hear people say things like: “We’re Charlotte Mason homeschoolers,” or “We’re Reggio,” or “We’re Unschoolers.” Although it’s impossible to know ALL of the acronyms for ALL of the homeschool styles and philosophies, you may want to become familiar with some of the main ideologies and methods. Having a general understanding of homeschool philosophies will enable you to more easily understand where you fit in the world of homeschoolers, which may also help you narrow down curricular choices. Your reasons for homeschooling may give you some good hints as to the style(s) that may resonate with you. Remember that you don’t have to subscribe to ANY pedagogy in full (you may find that you'd like to sample a few!) but it's good to know that they exist so that you can research and find materials that suit your family. There are a few websites like this one that give a general overview, but here are a few links to some popular homeschool styles . Pump Up the Volume! If you don’t have time to read, download a few Podcasts or Audiobooks and listen to them while you’re driving (or folding laundry!) The Bravewriter Podcast is a great place to start, but you might also want to try Honey, I’m Homeschooling the Kids or the Home/School/Life Podcast or The Kitchen Table Homeschool Podcast . Take Notes If you haven’t already, start a file folder, notebook or journal to record your findings and thoughts. Use it to write down names of websites, books, authors, philosophies and ideas for learning as you gather information about homeschooling. Fill the book with sticky notes, musings, and brainwaves. Keep a folder on your desktop for downloads, and make use of the bookmarks feature on your browser or consider using Symbaloo or Pinterest to stay organized digitally. NOTE: As homeschoolers and busy moms ourselves, we've struggled to manage multiple notebooks, too many open tabs on our internet browser, and piles of sticky notes, so we created and published a Homeschool Resource Notebook to keep all of our homeschool ideas in one place! We hope that it will help you, too! To help with your planning needs, we've combined the Homeschool Resource Notebook with a WEEKLY/MONTHLY Planner in our book Inspired Planning: A Combined Homeschool Planner & Resource Notebook . If you're looking for a detailed planner with space for DAILY customization, check out our DAILY/WEEKLY & MONTHLY Homeschool Planner called Balancing Homeschool: Simplifying School, Home, and Life . Both of our planners allow you to plan up to 16-months (70-Weeks) so that you can start planning early and continue longer than a regular planner allows! Be a Joiner Put yourself out there and sign up to attend local parent homeschool coffee nights, information sessions, and webinars. Look for activities posted on local bulletin boards or at your local library or community centre. Join mailing lists for homeschool web pages that you like and follow other homeschoolers on Social Media. Ask Questions! Find someone who has been homeschooling for a while (if you don't know anyone, put out a post on Facebook) and schedule a coffee date! Ask them what they do, what curriculum and materials they use, and how they structure their day. Write a list of questions beforehand, and take notes as you chat! If you still need help, or are feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to us - we'd love to chat!