Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran homeschooler, there is always something to learn about saving money – especially on homeschool curriculum. Let’s face it, curriculum can get pricey for one child, let alone multiple children.
Over the last 8 years we have figured out how to save money while getting quality curriculum for our children. After all the researching and reading to find the curriculum we want to use, there are three ways I try to save money on curriculum. They work well for us, even if I have to be patient sometimes.
5 Ways to Save Money on Homeschool Curriculum
Plan – During our first few years of homeschooling I found myself in awe of all the amazing curriculum out there. I wanted my 5 year old to know Greek, Hebrew and Spanish before first grade. He also needed to be ready for algebra by fifth grade, so of course I bought and collected curriculum and books like I was stocking a public library. It became a serious addiction…until my husband stepped in. After those first few years we realized he was not going to be any more of a genius than God made him, we slowed down and relaxed a bit. We sat down together and researched and planned out our curriculum choices, so I knew exactly what I was looking for and how much we wanted to spend. This not only saved our marriage (LOL), but our budget.
Sales – I love shopping sales, especially homeschool curriculum sales. This was part of the problem in fueling my curriculum and book addiction. However, it is also part of our solution in saving money. I have learned when to expect certain sales, so I make sure our plans and budget are set before they start and I’m ready to shop…and SAVE! Some of my favorite shops are Mardel, Timberdoodle and Educents.
Buy & Sell Used – This option is really two-fold. I have sold curriculum that didn’t work for us, as well as ones we no longer needed. I have also saved tons of money by buying used curriculum. So where can you buy and sell used curriculum? There numerous Facebook groups you can join, which is where I find most of my deals. I can search for specific publishers or books, which makes it easy. A few other places to try are eBay, Half.com (the sister site of eBay) and Amazon.
Go Digital – One of the best ways we have found to not only save money, but space, on curriculum is to go digital. Not everything is on the computer, but we do use CTC Math as well as Schoolhouse Teachers for several subjects. This has helped cut down on book purchases as well as shelf space.
BONUS: Giveaways – These, of course, aren’t a guarantee, so don’t bank on them. Unless…you catch some great giveaways before you make any purchases. Just don’t hold your breath for them and miss a great sale!
It’s that time of year, when many homeschoolers are busy preparing for a new school year. Some of you may have already started your new year, and some of you may have never stopped!
I’m teaming up with a great group of bloggers to make getting ready for the new school year just a little bit easier and hopefully a little less stressful for you. How does $250 sound in helping you buy curriculum, books, games, puzzles, and educational supplies? Two people will win a $250 gift card to the online store of their choice (choices are Rainbow Resource, Christianbook, or Timberdoodle).
We know homeschooling can put financial strain on families – whether it’s from living on one-income or buying curriculum for your children – the financial aspect of it can be stressful. Our hope is that we can bless homeschool families so they can buy the curriculum and supplies they need (or maybe a want you can finally splurge on) for their school year.
To enter for your chance to win, simply use the Rafflecopter form below to enter. Now I know that is quite a few entries for you, but each of these bloggers generously chipped in their own money to bring you this giveaway, so I hope you will take the time to do all of the entries. And hey, the more entries you do, the better your odds are at winning!
Giveaway ends August 4th, 2017 at 11:59pm ET. Must be at least 18 years of age. Selected winners will have 48 hours to respond to email notification to claim their prizes or another winner will be drawn. Please be sure to read the Terms & Conditions upon entering the giveaway.
This is our first official year of homeschooling!
Thank you for the opportunity to win!
I am entering my 6th year of homeschooling. It’s hard to believe that!
Would love to win this for my big family!!
I’ve been homeschooling my son for the past eight years.
This will be our 3rd year homeschooling!!
This is our third year homeschooling although my daughter is “technically” entering Kindergarten officially this year. We are so excited for the new school year!
Great tips!
Great article. This will be my first year homeschooling. The information found on this page is so helpful.
We have been homeschooling from the beginning, so 11 years now!
Great to find this type of support. As a mom of 8 cash is tight so thrift is a must
This will be my 1st year back to homeschooling. I’ve homeschooled previously and now getting back to it.
I started homeschooling 20 years ago.
Thanks for the opportunity!
I would so love to win this $250 gift certificate. I am trying to piece together our homeschool year and have packed our cart full of curriculum! However, since we are trying new things this year, we are spending a boatload! I hope other will see my post, but of course, hope we will win! 🙂
We are beginning our 5th year of homeschool.
Thank you! This would be great to win. Can’t believe we’ve been homeschooling 7 years now….