Choosing a homeschool curriculum can be challenging, since there are so many factors to consider and a huge variety of curriculum choices.   When considering a homeschool curriculum, we need to look at how our children learn best.  There is no "one size fits all" curriculum, just like there is no "one size fits all" homeschool family. 

When it comes to homeschool currriculum, it’s important to remain flexible, and realize that you can switch between different curriculum programs if the one you choose isn’t working out.  Be flexible and willing to try different options. Both teacher and student need to enjoy this journey.  Here are a few things to consider when choosing a homeschool curriculum for your child…

• Your child’s learning style
• Your homeschooling method (i.e. Classical, Charlotte Mason, Waldorf, Montessori, Christian, unschooling, etc.)
• Your teaching style
• Your budget
• Ages, stages, and number of children you’re homeschooling
• Your home enviroment
• Your opinion on the use of technology in your homeschool
• Whether or not your may send your children to public or private school in the future.  If sending them to school is a possibility, you’ll want to stick with the language arts and math curriculum that the school is using. This way there will be a seamless transition.

No one can teach their children everything, so don’t get too overwhelmed with the many curriculum choices.  If something’s not working, don’t be afraid to switch things around, or try a different curriculum.  Sometimes no matter how much a resource might seem like a good fit on paper — it may not work for your child.  When possible, request sample materials and test them before ordering a full curriculuIm.  In part two, we’ll look at how your choice of a homeschool method affects your homeschool curriculum options.