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Homeschool Essentials We Actually Use
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items Homeschooling has stretched me, humbled me, and grown me in the best ways. Some days are smooth. Other days… we lean hard on grace. These are the tools and resources we genuinely use in our home — the ones that make our days feel calmer, more intenti...
Sections
6
The True Basics
Ruler & Geometry Tools
Core Workbooks We Rotate
Light & Gentle Learning
Reading Time
Treats & Extras
The True Basics
These are the everyday tools that make homeschool life simple, practical, and hands-on. From writing and coloring to reusable learning tools, this collection keeps lessons flowing without frustration — the kind of essentials we reach for every single...
These are our tried-and-true favorites. They sharpen well, write smoothly, and somehow survive the daily wear and tear of homeschool life. We’ve tried other brands, but we always come back to Ticonderoga.
Pencils (Ticonderoga)
A homeschool classic for a reason. The colors are bright, smooth, and dependable — whether we’re illustrating a story, coloring maps, or just taking a creative break. Perfect for creativity, labeling, and fun learning projects. I love keeping these o...
Crayola Crayons & Colored Pencils
We go through these quickly — especially during math! Plenty of space to work things out, make mistakes, and try again. Great for scratch work, doodles, or spontaneous brainstorming.
Blank Note Pads
Each child has a basic notebook for writing, practicing, or jotting down ideas. Nothing fancy — just a place to put their thoughts. Ideal for structured lessons, journaling, or practicing cursive.
Simple Notebooks
A little lifesaver! Quick and easy sharpening that saves time and keeps pencils ready.
Electric Pencil Sharpeners
While scratch pads are great for longer work and free writing, we also love having reusable tools. Perfect for quick math games, spelling drills, and of course, low-paper practice.
Personal Dry Erase Boards
Essential for hands-on learning, reusable, and mess-free for daily activities. Perfect for math facts, spelling words, and phonics practice. We prefer low-odor, easy-to-erase markers that hold up to frequent use.
Dry Erase Markers
Keep lessons organized and notes handy with quick, easy-to-use markers for every page.
Sticky Notes Set
Ruler & Geometry Tools
Help kids turn abstract math into hands-on learning. Build measurement, shape, and angle skills while boosting confidence and problem-solving at home.
Essential for measuring, drawing straight lines, and keeping projects precise. A simple tool that makes math, art, and everyday activities easier and more accurate for kids.
Rulers
Complete tools for measuring, drawing, and exploring shapes — perfect for hands-on math fun and confidence-building.
Geometry Set
Core Workbooks We Rotate
I don’t believe in putting all our eggs in one basket when it comes to curriculum. We rotate through a few trusted workbooks and move at our own pace, depending on the season and the child. Some days we stick closely to one subject, other days we mix...
These have been steady anchors in our homeschool. Clear, structured, and faith-aligned without feeling overwhelming. We move at our own pace and take what serves our season.
Christian Light Curriculum
Great for quick thinking and light review. Sometimes we use it at the table, sometimes on the couch. It keeps learning conversational and low-pressure.
Brain Quest
I like having an all-in-one option on hand. It helps me see the big picture without feeling like I have to piece everything together perfectly. Language Arts, Math, Science, Reviews & Exams… answer key in the back. So convenient!
Complete Curriculum
Slow, steady practice. Even though days will frustrate them to no end, it teaches patience in a quiet way.
Children's Handwriting Books
We rotate through these gently. If we need more practice, we linger. If they grasp it quickly, we move on. Our household is learning Spanish, but since Italian is quite similar - we are introducing some Italian words too as a bonus. Always keeping it...
Language Studies
Build vocabulary and spelling with fun, quick, hands-on practice anytime at home.
Language Flash Cards
Light & Gentle Learning
Not everything has to feel academic. Sometimes a maze book in the middle of the day resets everyone’s mood. I’ve learned that peace in the home matters just as much as progress on paper!
These are our quiet “reset button”. When attention is fading or moods are shifting, a simple maze can bring everyone back to center. This doesn't feel like “school,” and sometimes that’s exactly what they need. Little brain breaks like this keep our ...
Children's Maze Books
Not every moment at our homeschool table is about structured lessons — and that’s okay. Simple activities like puzzles, coloring, or small games give the kids a chance to rest, recharge, and still be learning in playful ways. It's all about balance &...
Downtime Activities
Fun, fast, and portable! Perfect for reviewing math, language, or core skills anytime, anywhere.
Flashcards
Fun, hands-on challenges that boost problem-solving, critical thinking, and focus while kids learn.
Educational Games
Reading Time
Reading is a big part of our rhythm. Some days it’s independent quiet time. Other days it’s all of us on the couch together. Stories build imagination, vocabulary, and connection — and those moments feel sacred in their own way.
Reading is a big part of our rhythm. Some days it’s independent quiet time. Other days it’s all of us on the couch together. Stories build imagination, vocabulary, and connection — and those moments feel sacred in their own way.
Children's Chapter Books
Treats & Extras
Some days feel long, and some days are full of small victories. I’ve learned that little comforts make a big difference — whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee before the kids wake, a sweet treat just for me, or a small ritual that sets the tone for the...
Every homeschool mom needs a little something just for herself. A small chocolate, a gummy, or any favorite sweet becomes a tiny pause in the day — it’s a gentle reminder that you matter too. 🤍🍫
Snacks & Sweets
A scent that reminds you to pause and breathe. Something as simple as a whiff of lavender can help center your mind before the day begins. Aura Cacia is one of my favorite brands to use!🌿
Aura Cacia: Essential Oils
Keep kids focused and calm with small, hands-on tools that make learning at home easier.
Sensory Toys
Soft, tactile strips that help kids focus and feel calm. Perfect for mindful sticker placement and quiet, soothing hand movement during lessons.
Sensory Tape