What would you do for next year if you could spend NO money for school?

[Karen in CO]

I have a good friend that is homeschooling a child the same age as my oldest daughter. She has NEVER spent money for homeschool other than pencils and paper, craft supplies, and science supplies. Never spent a penny. Her husband is adamant that it can be done without spending money on it and so far she has. Her son is ahead of grade level in math and reading. He writes as well as any 8yo boy and loves history and science and is learning Japanese. She uses free worksheets from the internet and library books. She hasn't even bought a how-to homeschool book.

Our recent discussions have made me reconsider what I use for homeschool.

How much would your homeschooling methods change if you could not spend money for school? What would you use? Could you homeschool with no money for it?

[nukeswife]

To be honest, I'm not sure I could do it. I need my TM's to help me know how to proceed. I'm not real good at making up for myself.

[bookmomma]

I think that it would take a lot more time for me to find all the resources I need every day and every week. Sure, it's possible, but I don't think I have the time to do all that planning. I know I'm spoiled, but I prefer to buy curricula that is a "pick up and go" model. This is coming from a person who was trained to be public school teacher.

Kudos to your friend. She sounds a lot like my sister-in-law.

[elegantlion]

Does her dh consider internet, the cost of printing, and gas to the library homeschooling expenses? :001_huh:

I would have to consider long and hard whether I could viably do homeschool spending no money on books. I am pretty frugal and have been blessed to find several old textbooks at thrifts stores and through paperbackswap. the expense was minimal. However my time is valuable too and if I had spend an inordinate amount of time gathering and putting together materials I might feel less enthusued about homeschooling at all. Granted our library is not good so that doesn't help.

I love research and I think spending money for what I feel are the best materials, not just the cheapest, is a worthwhile investment. I did homeschool with a 100.00 budget one year. It was hard, I bartered, begged, and that was our toughest year. We just didn't have any more money. My dh is a carpenter and he understands the investment into the proper tool to do the job. He never questions my budget and we've been able to spend more now.

I think some people would rise to the challenge. My personality would probably just stress out and implode. :lol:

[LizzyBee]

When I think about the resources I have saved on my computer from google books and other websites, I feel kind of ashamed of how much money I spend on curriculum. If I had to homeschool for free, I easily could. Here is what I would use next year for 3rd and 8th grade:

Reading for my 3rd grader - This would be the hardest thing to do for free, because she is dyslexic, so I'd have to modify anything I download from the internet to slow down the pace and make it multisensory. A friend of mine taught her severely dyslexic son to read without buying an expensive OG program, so I know it can be done, but it's hard.
Math - Ray's Arithmetic, downloaded from google books
Grammar - Harvey's Grammar - I own the reprints of both books, but they are also available on google books
Writing - Books I've downloaded from google books - some of them are excellent
Spelling - there are free websites for spelling, or I could use one of the spelling books I've downloaded from google books
Latin - Latin Book One - the chapters, answers, and audio files are all available free on a yahoo group
Science - the library
History - the library
Art - library books or art lessons from the internet (I'd have to spend some money on supplies, though.)
Music - play classical music on cable tv and CDs we already own

ETA: I'd have to continue paying $25/year to use the next county's library system. Our county's library is pretty awful.

Remember that homeless dad and his teenage daughter who were found living in a cave? They had a set of Encyclopedia Britannica that he was using to teach her, and she tested above grade level. If I were forced to homeschool for free or almost free, that story would remind me that it can be done, and done well.

[Melissa B]

I think I would need a really, really good library. Our local library has a children's section of about four bookshelves. That would include everything from preschool through young adult. I don't think there are more than 300 or 400 non-fiction books total (for children.) With a good library I could, but I wouldn't really want to. :)

[Karen in CO]

I won't tell you she has a 1yo too. They are very frugal and on a tight budget. He is in computers and in a group that is under constant threat of being laid-off. She only goes to the library once every few weeks, only prints off worksheets that will be used or they work on white boards. Her dh is very good with math and they follow a progression of skills instead of a particular publisher's scope-and-sequence. She is very literary, and set the progression of skills for the LA side - from writing to spelling by phonics rules to literary analysis and a focus on classic literature. They make it seems easy - from the outside - because they knew how they wanted to do it before they started.

[Asenik]

Well, curriculum junkie that I am, I think I could manage for a year or two with no pinch even. I guess that is cheating, though, huh?

My big problems would be math and grammar. I think I could maybe even pull grammar off, but I would have to find money somewhere to buy the math books!

I have been thinking about this more and more, in this economy. I have been looking at more free stuff and the library and trying to concientiously look at nonconsumables and swapping with friends. Even most of my "build up" has been purchased at used curriculum sales, which we are lucky enough to have in this area several times a year.

Really interesting thread!

[Karen in CO]

I think I would need math, writing, and foreign language. I might get by for a few years without writing. I have been trying to use my money lately on books that I can read aloud now and have my dd read later herself or books that will have use through more than one year. I've quit buying books for her reading since she is a quick reader. I am also looking at things that are reusable so that the younger can use them later on. But I still don't come close to my friend's budget.

I could definitely do next year except for math unless I use my Ray's. Maybe I could stretch out all of the grammar years with copywork and dictation, math and library books?

[Heather in VA]

Well I know I could spend less than I do but I'll be curious to see if they still feel like it can be done without ANY money when that child gets older. I do think high school requires some investment - is she good enough at math to borrow geometry, pre-calc, calc books from the library but not need an answer book (you can't get answer books from the library). What about science labs? Hard to do without any equipment.

So now it's doable. But with older students I think the desire to spend nothing could compromise the education.

Heather

[LizzyBee]

Well, curriculum junkie that I am, I think I could manage for a year or two with no pinch even. I guess that is cheating, though, huh?

That's me too! I have loads of stuff on our bookcases, in addition to all the free stuff I've saved on my hard drive.

[OhElizabeth]

I only have one thing to say to that. God didn't give me the health or brains to pull it together like that woman, so He gave me some money to buy it. More power to her, and I'm thankful for my purchased curriculum.

If I had no money, that would mean my dh was dead and my kid was in school somewhere. Since school costs money, that still wouldn't make sense. It's just a non-issue. That said, like most people here, I'll need to spend LESS money going into this school year, ugh.

[MountainViewMama]

I have to have a teachers manual to tell me what to do. It would take me forever to try to pull together everything I would need and even then I probably wouldn't feel like it was enough. I like to have somethink telling me to "do pages 1-3, read this, write that." So, no I couldn't do it on my own.

[helena]

we have a killer private library so...
from the library I would get Pimsleur French cd set (great for the car)
check out music cds classical, jazz, blues, etc for music discussion/history/appreciation.Husband, FIL, and MIL are all musicians so piano, guitar,singing etc is covered. History (ie early American history) books on cd like Dear America series, books, and dvds, I would find worksheets online. Free map work online (we have found some good ones) Science books and dvds like The Way things work. Heavy nature study. Bird watching, tracking, tree identifying using field guide books from library. Lang arts using read alouds from library: copy work, dictation, spelling etc. Our library has tons of grammar books and dvds. Poetry books, poet of the month to study. Put up picture of poet (from computer) and 1 piece to memorize. Books on cd. Cursive just working one on one first with letters then copy work done in cursive. Math... well that would be a scary thought! I'm positive though that with some research I could find something that would work well! We would do all the awesome free things that are out there, nature centers, free day at gardens and museums, free programs at library, art galleries, the beach, bird sanctuary and so on. Home Ec. I don't need money to teach the kids how to polish the wood furniture, or how to do a whip stitch. Etiquitte through library books and good example (I hope). And last but not least, art..... books, picture study, instructional dvds and youtube (dd just learned how to finger knit this way/ too bad it can be a slimy place) I set her up on it, and stay with her. Web sites like National Gallery of Art. I could also set my classroom up for free! There is a paint recycling center in my town, to paint the walls, and craigslist free section to find everything else! There are always desks, chairs, plants, books, shelves, and all the fixings! The month that every one is sick (Dec. for us) I would get the free month trial at United Streaming and watch Time Warp Trio until my head explodes:)

[Jenny in Florida]

I'm well aware that most of the money I spend on curriculum is for my convenience, not for the benefit of my child. I had several years in a row in which we spent about $100 per kid, and it was fine. So, with the internet at my fingertips (assuming we're not counting that as a "homeschooling" expense, but just something we'd have anyway) and a library card, I'd be perfectly capable of providing my child with a superior education for even less. I'd just have to substitute time and creativity for money.

[Pamela H in Texas]

I COULD do it....but I wouldn't do it.

Well, strike that. It depends on the level. I'm thinking, "ds is going into 9th grade!" I could do it well for elementary, though I might not want to; but I wouldn't even consider it for high school.

Also, I have a problem with df's hubby's attitude. It costs parents to send kids to school. It makes sense it would cost to school them at home. I don't think we necessarily have to add the costs that schools incur for each student, of course, but I think it's reasonable to spend at least what you would spend to send them to school. And I could even see a family limiting it to that. I think it's over the top to limit it more than that on principle alone though.

[Tammyla]

http://www.amblesideonline.org/sitemap.shtml

And my library~

[In The Great White North]

Did you say her oldest was 8? I could easily cover an 8 year old for "free", only buying paper and pencils (colored too). We would focus on math facts, reading and writing. Science and history would be based on the library. I would throw in some German just because I could. I didn't buy anything but art supplies for my youngest til 5th grade, when I just had to try LoF.

It is very possible up to where math needs a textbook (algebra) to make sure I don't forget anything.

Our town dump has a "book shed" where people dump their "garbage" books, and I get to take the ones I want (the entire Saxon set through Advanced Math, Jacob's geometry, tons of Landmarks and more classics than I have room for). :D Makes me less dependent on our library, which focuses on recent releases.

PS How did that unhappy smiley get there?

[MamaT]

It would be possible to do for one 8yo, but I don't think I would want to put the time and effort it would take to put it together for my four kids all on different levels. With all the resources on the internet, I'm sure that it could be done with lots of time to pull it together. That being said, if I HAD to do it, I would use:

http://www.amblesideonline.org/
and the library

This link has a list of free homeschool sites in every subject:

http://lotsofkids.com/LOK-Homeschool/Articles/homeschoolpenny.htm

[Jenny in Florida]

Okay, if I could spend "no" money on school next year (aside from internet access, gas for library trips, paper and ink for the printer, etc.), what would I do?

Let's see. My son will be 11, technically 6th grade level, but ahead of his age in several areas.

Math: I'd go ahead with the Florida Virtual School course we're already planning for next year. Because we're Floridians and registered with our county as homeschoolers, it's free to us. If I didn't have access to that, I'd either use MEP (which has been discussed here before) or use the World Book Typical Course of Study information as an outline and track down instruction and worksheets for each skill.

Edit: Okay, I just checked my local library's online catalogue, and they have about 20 different books and DVDs listed under "algebra." I'm sure I could make it work.

History: Easy. I'd use the encyclopedias and reference books I already have on the shelf as spines and get additional books and DVDs from the library. Toss in some field trips, and we're good to go.

Literature: Again, this one's a cinch. I'd get good books from the libary (or off our shelves at home) and read them with him. I'd pick at least a few for which I could find reading guides for free online. I especially like the Glencoe guides: http://www.glencoe.com/sec/literature/litlibrary/

Grammar/Composition: I'd have him write about what he's reading and use online sources for grammar explanations as necessary. This is comfortable territory for me.

Science: Again, there are all kinds of wonderful resources online. Here's one I have bookmarked from a few years ago: http://www.galaxy.net/~k12/ I'd get books and DVDs from the libary about science-related topics and toss in some experiments and field trips.

Foreign Language: I'd have my choice of something from the libary, maybe supplemented with whatever I could find online, or going with FLVS for this one.

Actually, I hate this topic, because it makes me feel guilty for spending what I have spent on next year.

[rockermom]

I'm well aware that most of the money I spend on curriculum is for my convenience, not for the benefit of my child. I had several years in a row in which we spent about $100 per kid, and it was fine. So, with the internet at my fingertips (assuming we're not counting that as a "homeschooling" expense, but just something we'd have anyway) and a library card, I'd be perfectly capable of providing my child with a superior education for even less. I'd just have to substitute time and creativity for money.
:iagree:

RockerDad recently told me that we need to ask my nephew what it costs to put his kids in the local public school for 1 year (fees, supplies, lunch money, etc). He thinks it shouldn't cost us more to homeschool one than it does to send two to public school. We will have to homeschool on a tight budget... but there will be a budget.

I reminded him that we do not receive government funding. :lol:

[WendyK]

It can be done, but I wouldn't want to. I'd seriously even consider not homeschooling if I wasn't able to spend any money on it because I just can't imagine being able to dedicate the time required to putting stuff together. Maybe it would be possible if I had one child.

[Jenny in Florida]

Our town dump has a "book shed" where people dump their "garbage" books, and I get to take the ones I want (the entire Saxon set through Advanced Math, Jacob's geometry, tons of Landmarks and more classics than I have room for).

I never thought of the dump, but our local school district has a surplus warehouse, where they make available books and supplies that the schools are dumping. I got lots of stuff there when my kids were younger.

Of course, it's all books used in public schools, so you have to be selective. However, I often picked up books from which I'd use just a section or two for some specific topic. My daughter did the poetry unit from a literature text, for example. And they each in their turn worked through a very good middle school science text.

[TaraTheLiberator]

I would be able to homeschool for the cost of basic supplies. My budget this year for first grade and K has been around $200, and that includes printer cartridges, which are my biggest expense. I could go cheaper if I had to. With all of the free stuff available, it is certainly do-able, if labor intensive. (Although at the high school level, I am not sure that all free resources would suffice.)

So, if I had no money to spend, what would I use? Let's see ...

1) History ... SOTW from the library, continue with the Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia, more supplemental books from the library, free history projects from the internet

2) Math ... I have already purchased my next year of RightStart (for less than half the retail price) so I would use that, but when we finished that I would go with Math Mammoth, which, while not free, is less than $10.

3) Phonics ... finish the ETC workbooks we have (I bought three levels ahead for each kid) and then use a free phonics curriculum someone here linked to online.

4) Science ... continue with books from the library and DK spines that I own

5) Grammar ... I'm already planning to use free grammar books (Sheldon's PLL and ILL) from Google books

6) WWE: I own the textbook, so I have four years of writing instruction already

7) Spanish ... I don't know, I'd have to look around. I think "free Spanish" would be hard.

8) Latin ... same as 7, I'd have to spend some time investigating it.

Tara

[maadrose]

I could probably get by (in fact I'm sure I spend way less than most people on this board anyway!) I'd definitely tap into the internet more. It would be a HUGE undertaking and would take TONS of planning on my part! I think I'd also ask at the local public school if I could "borrow" the books for that particular grade year--they do that around here, not sure about anywhere else. I'd also be forced to follow the state standards for IN to be sure I got everything in that needed to be taught. So yes I think it's possible, BUT my time is also valuable, so having a little budget would be nicer than NO budget!

[mcconnellboys]

Yes, I'd use the internet (although that does still involve cost for electricity, and for paper and ink if you print out anything) and our very good library system. I think if you live somewhere with a decent library then you're pretty much set.

[Penelope]

Are there really that many internet resources for older children?

I'd probably do the best I could with the library until 3rd or 4th grade and then put them in school. At some point with absolutely no money spent on curriculum, I think the academic benefit of homeschooling would narrow quite a bit. I think for me, that much preparation would be a recipe for burn-out.

I know I read of a hs study that was done that tracked achievement of hs students and compared the families by factors like family income and amount of money spent on homeschooling. There was a correlation between achievement (scores) and amount of money spent, albeit small.

[swellmomma]

In elementary I think it is completely possible, and I could do it, but by Junior high or high school I would be less inclined to stick with internet worksheets and need to buy curric. SInce i know what I want to use in those grades I prefer to stick with using purchased curric now as well. Of course the fact my school board pays for it is helpful. If I had no choice I could get by with library books and internet only for my kids right now, but within a year or 2 I would have to go back to buying curric for my older 2.

[Jenny in Florida]

Are there really that many internet resources for older children?

Sure, again especially if you're willing to put in some hours and be creative. Several (perhaps many?) univerties offer open source materials including lectures (on video) and notes and quizzes and all kinds of stuff for free online. You could certainly use those as the basis for a challenging high school class.

We used some stuff from www.learner.org (http://www.learner.org), too. For one course, I bought a used, older edition of the recommended text online for about $15. My daughter did the readings and watched the videos, and I made up quizzes. It was very good.

My son is doing a free, online algebra course this year from the University of California Open Access site -- http://www.ucopenaccess.org/ . They also have biology and an assortment of AP courses for science, math and history.

What I usually do when I start thinking about designing a course from scratch is to search online for syllabi from high schools for similar courses. I look at how much work is required, what kinds of things they're reading, etc. Then, because I have the luxury to do so, I go buy whatever I think will be comparable. However, if I were on a stricted budget, I'd just start hitting my library and poke around online until I felt sure we had covered the material.

[hihoboneo]

It would depend on the age of the child. I think it would be difficult to do it without purchasing anything. I would do a lot of field trips and spend time in the library.
Bonnie

[TaraTheLiberator]

I forgot to add that another option is a virtual charter school. Not ideal (to me) in that my children would be public school students, but it would be free and they would still be at home.

Tara

[prairiegirl]

I think I could do it now after hsing for 4 yrs as I have amassed more confidence in my teaching skills. I don't think I would have been able to do this when we had first started. I had no clue as to what I was doing.

Now, I think this can be done for elementary grades but I'm not too sure about highschool. I know that I would not be able to do highschool without TM's, especially math and science.

[TolleLegeAcademy]

It doesn't sound as if your friend needs suggestions on where to find things, but there is another site I haven't seen mentioned (unless I've missed it) that would be helpful in educating with free online materials:

www.oldfashionededucation.com

If I had to, I would draw from it and Ambleside Online.


LizzyBee or anyone else who knows----what is the yahoo group with the free Latin Book One curriculum?

Thanks!

[AuntPol]

I will have a 4th and 5th grader and actually most of this is what I am doing next year.

I use Ambleside and if the book is not online or in my library then I find a suitable substitute that is in my library. I only buy books from yard sales, etc. The curriculum I have is bought used at homeschool store (using with credits of what I resale or found in freebie bin). Other than Singapore and Life of Fred, most of my curriculum that I buy covers multiple chidlren for multiple years

Literature: Ambleside readings
Reading: I own DITHOR already so would continue that but assuming I didn't I would just have them read and narrate from Ambleside and Sonlight lists. Book Adventure quizes if applicable and book reports.
Poetry: Ambleside
**Use free discussion guides online and/or narrate
** Audio books of whatever is on list that mj

Composition: Keyword outlines from studies; Nano novelist workbook, free lapbooks from internet. Book reports using Love to Learn website.
Journal Writing
Penmanship: Copwork journal
Typing: Free typing site online

Spelling: Dictation and spelling lists from words missed
Grammar: Taught as it comes up; supplement with mad libs found online and watching School HOuse Rocks on Youtube. Also do games from Skillbuilders Internet for Classrooms.
Vocabulary: Dictionary drills from lists made from readings; Personal dictionary that add one word a day too. Word of the day sites.
Foreign Language: I already own Rosetta Stone -one that has every language that we we're given from one of DH's private school clients so I would continue that for Spanish and Latin. Pretending I didn't have that, I would use youtube spanish lessons, simple books on tape from library, and online sites for library. Not sure how I would do Latin.

Math: I currently use Singapore and it would kill me to give it up but if I had too, I would switch to MEP and use Week by Week essentials and Skillbuilders Internet for Classrooms for supplementary activities.
Logic: this would be harder as I like it systematically taught like with Logic Countdown, etc. but if I could spend no money I would do this:
sudoku, two minute mysteries, playing battleship, hangman, clue, and other online games/board games.

Nature Studies: Ambleside readings, using the online version of handbook and the nature study blog w/ nature journal. Supplement with any scout badge in area of study. They will each also pick out a particular spot to study once a month to observe the yearly changes. Supplement with youtube video clips and lapbooks.
Science: I am planning three units for each 12 week term.
1) Ben Franklin experiment book from library
2) Snap Circuit kit (DS got for Christmas) with manual that comes with it and DH's old school book from the Marines.
3) Gizmos and Gadgets book from library
Health: Scout badge work related to topics we are reading and service projects. Monthly fire and hazard walk around house and fire drill. Both will be reading the book related to their gender w/ discussion (boy's body book or Care of You) from library this coming year.

**Plus any scout badges of interest. I plan to do any patches, etc related to energy and water conservation so that perhaps they will be more conscious of leaving doors open, lights on, water running, etc.

History: Ambleside readings supplemented with a few movie rentals (on family movie nights), video clips from youtube, free lapbooks, and badge work. Timeline from Simply Charlotte Mason
Geography: Map drills with our map of places we read about; work geography puzzles. Read Ambleside readings. Watch travel channel
Current Events: Time for Kids online once a week
Citizenship/Civics: Ambeside's Plutarch reading; Work on badges from scouts and supplement with books from library and free lapbooks.

Art: Drawing in Nature journal, checking out Draw Write Now books from library, crafts
Art Appreciation: Finding pictures on internet and using them as background on computer; discuss once a week. Read about artist online or in library book.
Music Appreciation: Listen to on youtube; Supplement with movies that feature composer. (My kids love to say hey That's Vivaldi).

Religion: Daily bible reading and discussion, online devotions, Awana verses for memory work

PE: Daily exercise and work on different skills via Scout badges
Home-Ec: Kids take turns helping me in kitchen once a week to learn how to cook; lots of chores;

I have a list of free resources (http://http://afterschoolers.yuku.com/topic/4856) (not unit study type but real subjects like history, grammar etc) for all grade levels that I've compiled as I come across them.

[abbeyej]

I spend money because I am able, and because I see value in the things I buy. But if I *had* to, I'm quite certain I could home school (at least elementary and middle school) with nothing but the internet, a printer, a library (even a mediocre one), pencils and paper. It wouldn't be "ideal", but totally doable.

All that said, I'm sure grateful I don't *have* to do it that way.

[Shannon831]

She should write a book. I think I could do it now, but back when we first started? No way. I needed a lot of hand holding in the beginning.

[Cadam]

It's possible but my time, sanity and enjoyment of what I do is worth something. Also, there are a lot of things I just don't know and I need support for. I would consider it very unsupportive if my dh said I couldn't buy materials unless there was a major financial reason. Actually if that happened, I would just ask my little brother to give me the money he usually puts in the kids college funds (I know, he rocks). He has offered to divert the money to curriculum for me and tuition for my sister's kids if we needed it. That would at least cover math and Latin. I think I could wing the rest.

[LizzyBee]

LizzyBee or anyone else who knows----what is the yahoo group with the free Latin Book One curriculum?

Thanks!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Latinbk1/

[mcconnellboys]

There's plenty of stuff that covers through eighth grade. For high school, more and more colleges and universities are throwing up free course materials.

[chaik76]

I could do it...probably through high school even, with the help of the college library at the school dh teaches at. I wouldn't want to do it that way though! I love buying curricula, homeschooling books, supplies, etc...it would actually take a good chunk of the fun out of it for me to not be able to do that.

[LizzyBee]

Are there really that many internet resources for older children?

There are excellent grammar and composition books for high school on google books that you can download free. You can get lit from the library, and lit guides from Sparknotes or another free site. You can download math books from google books, but you'd have to work all the problems to make your own answer key. You could use Life of Fred with the home companion books which is not free but inexpensive. History and science would be pretty easy to do from the library if you have a decent one, but you'd have to buy lab supplies. There are also some excellent history and science websites. A few thoroughly cover a particular era or subject, but most of it would be piecemeal and require some advance planning.

I'm not saying I'd want to do high school that way, just that it's not impossible.

[ereks mom]

I have a good friend that is homeschooling a child the same age as my oldest daughter. She has NEVER spent money for homeschool other than pencils and paper, craft supplies, and science supplies. Never spent a penny. Her husband is adamant that it can be done without spending money on it and so far she has. Her son is ahead of grade level in math and reading. He writes as well as any 8yo boy and loves history and science and is learning Japanese. She uses free worksheets from the internet and library books. She hasn't even bought a how-to homeschool book.

Our recent discussions have made me reconsider what I use for homeschool.

How much would your homeschooling methods change if you could not spend money for school? What would you use? Could you homeschool with no money for it?

It was a lot of work, putting together everything on my own. At the time (13 years ago) we were brand new to homeschooling, had a first grader & toddler, and were flat broke. I had been a PS teacher, so I had some children's books and art supplies (paint, chalk, etc.) left over from that. I had some math and reading workbooks and some coloring books, all from the dollar store. We didn't have internet at the time (and didn't really know anyone else who did either). I had friends who still taught in PS who let me borrow extra copies of readers, and we went to the library at least once a week. We read Dr. Seuss and Little Critter and Nate the Great and the Berenstain Bears, and many, many others. We had plastic magnetic letters that we used to practice spelling. Or sometimes we used a MagnaDoodle (gift from grandparents) or a mini chalkboard. We used marbles, plastic milk jug caps, and frozen juice can lids as math manipulatives, and we painted on the sidewalk with water & a paintbrush. Ah, the memories!

[sunflowerlady]

I could absolutely do it, but I don't want to have to do it. I could even homeschool through high school. The only concern would be for math , since I am not particularly strong in that subject and I would feel I need some sort of program.

That said, I go to several used book sales where there is a freebie area, and I would gather things from that. Also, I would use the library. Fortunately , our library system is quite good.

I could use the free Scott Foresman grammar site also. Nature study for science, a dictionary for spelling and vocabulary, library books for social studies.

Also I could homeschool using sources I already have on hand that I have found cheap.:001_smile:

[Karen in CO]

It was a lot of work, putting together everything on my own. At the time (13 years ago) we were brand new to homeschooling, had a first grader & toddler, and were flat broke. I had been a PS teacher, so I had some children's books and art supplies (paint, chalk, etc.) left over from that. I had some math and reading workbooks and some coloring books, all from the dollar store. We didn't have internet at the time (and didn't really know anyone else who did either). I had friends who still taught in PS who let me borrow extra copies of readers, and we went to the library at least once a week. We read Dr. Seuss and Little Critter and Nate the Great and the Berenstain Bears, and many, many others. We had plastic magnetic letters that we used to practice spelling. Or sometimes we used a MagnaDoodle (gift from grandparents) or a mini chalkboard. We used marbles, plastic milk jug caps, and frozen juice can lids as math manipulatives, and we painted on the sidewalk with water & a paintbrush. Ah, the memories!


You know it sounds like a lovely way to homeschool. You get to enjoy the fun things and learn about your new role as teacher mom in a gentle way without spending lots of money that you'll need in the later years when things get hard.

[Kelli in TN]

I could do it if I had to. Math, science and foreign language would be the sticky points. However, we are able to receive $300 per semester for dual enrollment in 11th and 12th grades, so perhaps with that we could load up on foreign language, math and science.

I think I would at least try to do it. I would need an internet connection, computer, printer, library card.

I am so glad I don't have to do it that way, but if our budget were to suddenly shrink, I think I could keep going if I had the aforementioned essentials.

[JWSJ]

How much would your homeschooling methods change if you could not spend money for school? What would you use? Could you homeschool with no money for it?

We'd need to do some more planning and prep work but that's all.

There is A LOT of elementary resources on the Internet and our local library is great. We've also seen lots of free books available.

Yes, we could homeschool with no money. The only reason we don't is convenience.

[gardenschooler]

It was a lot of work, putting together everything on my own. At the time (13 years ago) we were brand new to homeschooling, had a first grader & toddler, and were flat broke. I had been a PS teacher, so I had some children's books and art supplies (paint, chalk, etc.) left over from that. I had some math and reading workbooks and some coloring books, all from the dollar store. We didn't have internet at the time (and didn't really know anyone else who did either). I had friends who still taught in PS who let me borrow extra copies of readers, and we went to the library at least once a week. We read Dr. Seuss and Little Critter and Nate the Great and the Berenstain Bears, and many, many others. We had plastic magnetic letters that we used to practice spelling. Or sometimes we used a MagnaDoodle (gift from grandparents) or a mini chalkboard. We used marbles, plastic milk jug caps, and frozen juice can lids as math manipulatives, and we painted on the sidewalk with water & a paintbrush. Ah, the memories!


This sounds almost identical to how we started out! Wonderful memories, and I just figured I was supposed to figure it out on my own. I didn't have any clue about the various curricula out there (although I don't think there were nearly as many options then, either). I just made up my own little unit studies, used the library, and called it good. And it was. :)

I did check out many different teacher's resource books from the library, to give me ideas for book lists and our other studies. I started out using the 'What your _ grader needs to know' series as a jumping-off point, and later WTM when I saw it in the bookstore. I'm pretty sure I spent less than $150 total for two kids until oldest was in 6th grade, and that was mostly for supplies and math workbooks. It can be done, definitely, without compromising their education. But in the upper elementary years, it started to become A LOT of work, and I started to have some doubts as to gaps and rigor (which I see now were unneccessary fears), so I started buying things that were more ready-made.

I do think that injecting a little bit of our own ideas and putting together things keeps the enthusiasm alive, as long as you do just enough of it (too much, or being forced to, can lead to big time burn out).

[LostSurprise]

Yes, we started out that way. I spent under $30 the first 2-3 years for 1 child.

This year I had 3 schooling (K-4th) so I thought I'd need the extra time and invested in more curricula. I spent $100-150 total for all 3 boys. That includes a math book and workbooks, a grammar/writing curriculum, history, and a science program. I didn't need anything for the Kindergartner so all of that money was spent on the 3rd and 4th grader.

I don't count garage sale/library sale finds. I pick those up as they come. I've also received cast-offs from other homeschoolers as we go along and I've passed on things I couldn't use as well. It's a very sharing community. I don't count the new printer/copier we got this year (dh purchased it) or ink. We'd be buying those anyway, even if we would be replacing them much more slowly if we weren't homeschooling. :tongue_smilie:

I think it's fairly easy to do with an 8 year old, and as time goes on I think her dh will feel more invested in the process and be open to more expenses...although maybe not the expenses everyone here puts into their homeschool. That's okay, we're all different.

[calandalsmom]

My time is valuable. I dont think all those hours of finding and implementing are free in any way shape or form.

[Staci in MO]

I often think about things like this. I was just looking at Ambleside online yesterday for book ideas, and was thinking that I really COULD use this, and not have to spend so much money.

It would be harder for the upper grades, especially the upper level math and sciences. But, in all honesty, with all the stuff I have on my shelves, including old college textbooks my dh and I have, I could probably cobble together a pretty decent high school curriculum without spending another penny, or really even going to the library. We may not have a Trig or calculus text in the house, but that's probably about it. Some of the books wouldn't be exactly what I want, but it would be enough.

I am getting better. I used to be quite a curriculum junkie, and spent lots of money on things I didn't really need. But I'm getting better at buying things I can use again, and staying with it. For instance, I'm sure FLL 3 & 4 are wonderful, but I OWN R&S 3 & 4 already and know they do the job. I'm sticking with them.

It's the same with TOG. Omnibus looks good, too. But I have three of the four TOG year plans, I know how it works, and I know I like it. I don't have the time or energy to figure out a new curriculum.

Sorry, I guess I got off the original point. I could do it if I had to.

[3blessingmom]

I won't tell you she has a 1yo too. They are very frugal and on a tight budget. He is in computers and in a group that is under constant threat of being laid-off. She only goes to the library once every few weeks, only prints off worksheets that will be used or they work on white boards. Her dh is very good with math and they follow a progression of skills instead of a particular publisher's scope-and-sequence. She is very literary, and set the progression of skills for the LA side - from writing to spelling by phonics rules to literary analysis and a focus on classic literature. They make it seems easy - from the outside - because they knew how they wanted to do it before they started.

Their kids are blessed!:001_smile: It sounds like they have set up their own curriculum and wouldn't be happy with someone else's anywho! They REALLY should write a book about what they do.

My time is valuable. I dont think all those hours of finding and implementing are free in any way shape or form.

True - not free. However, what a valuable way to spend time, if you have it.

To HS for free, just do say you did it free is silly. I could do it, esp after having read TWTM, CM, and more.... I am pretty thrifty, and do things like buy the RS abacus manual for $8 used rather than buying the entire curric for hundreds of $. That $8 is benefitting my kids greatly.

[calandalsmom]

I can think of a hundred million things Id rather do than comb the net and library for free resources to educate my kids.

[Wendy in ME]

I'm sure I could do it if I didn't also have to work a full time job. I "need" the structure set up for me so that on our school days, which aren't even the same four days every week, I can just do the next thing in each subject. I look at it as a trade off. It would be a full time job that doesn't pay to organize school for four kids using only free resources.

[Loupelou]

Kudos to your friend, that's really awesome!

I have always tried to buy the majority of my curriculum used, I love all of the used boards, Amazon, and eBay. We have a great library which I do use, but it is a 40 minute drive, and we pay a yearly fee. I would think some books would be needed for longer than the library would allow.

I cannot see myself abandoning everything and devoting the amount of time that I am positive your friend must to do such a great job with her daughter. I also cannot imagine trying to do it with my 6!:tongue_smilie:

It does give one pause though. I am sure we all could scale back in some areas!

[shinyhappypeople]

..

[flmochamom]

<<We used some stuff from www.learner.org >>

Thanks, I had completely forgotten about this fantastic site. We have used some of the online open courseware from MIT and Stanford with wonderful results. Also don't forget about Khan Academy for math.

I do think that it (homeschooling) can be done with much less money than we actually spend, and we are on a budget. Even the high school years can be accomplished successfully, though it will absolutely take time and creativity.

[2_girls_mommy]

I would do things from Google books like this poster:

Math - Ray's Arithmetic, downloaded from google books
Grammar - Harvey's Grammar - I own the reprints of both books, but they are also available on google books
Writing - Books I've downloaded from google books - some of them are excellent
Spelling - there are free websites for spelling, or I could use one of the spelling books I've downloaded from google books
Latin - Latin Book One - the chapters, answers, and audio files are all available free on a yahoo group
Science - the library
History - the library
Art - library books or art lessons from the internet (I'd have to spend some money on supplies, though.)
Music - play classical music on cable tv and CDs we already own

Although, for next year, I have managed to purchase used or been given all of my 3rd grader's R&S math and english student and T.M.s. I paid $1 for one at a used sale, was given the student texts by a friend, and got the Math T.Ms during R&S's 2nds sales. For me, I would want to find some type of daily math curric. I could use any old grammar book and be fine. I have my mother's old textbooks here that I could use for 1st through about 3rd grade and be fine even. I already to writing on my own the WTM way. The other subjects are easy enough w/the internet and library.

[Ravin]

Let's see:

Reading: Hooked on Phonics 2nd Grade (avail. from library), readers from library
Writing: copywork, narration drawing on other subjects. I'm looking forward to using CW primer next year, but we could live without it.
Lit: I already own the book we're using for that next year
History: History of Us by Hakim, avail. from the library
Spelling: Webster's Spelling, available free from Don Potter's site
Grammar/Language: We'd have to skip Latin, which would be a big bummer, but we could probably do Spanish using materials from the library, and I could take FLL down off the shelf where it's collecting dust.
Geography: Library books, we already have a map and globe, I'd just have to impose some structure myself instead of buying materials to do it for me
Science: Library books, again I'd have to come up with more structure for our studies on my own but we'd manage
Math: I already have a text that will get us well beyond 2nd grade, plus we can get free materials for this and other subjects from the curriculum room at DD's enrichment program to supplement.
Classical Studies: We're doing Bible stories next year, I already got a children's bible story book from DH's stepmom.
Heathen Studies: Virtue study is what I have planned, I might make a poster but we won't be buying anything in particular for it anyway.

[lovemykids]

Well, first I would cry. :lol: But then I feel confident that I could make it work. Absolutely no money for it is a little extreme though, especially when there are such great deals to be found on the sale and swap- and on Ebay. But if we were allowed to put a little money into used items- with the library, the free sites, and some paper and ink and we would be all set. I'd rather not do that-

But I am trying to scale down for next year.

[Cadam]

Ha, old thread. I already answered.

[3blessingmom]

I just read what I typed a year ago...:blushing::lol:

Ummm....yeah, I wouldn't want to do this thing with no budget, as evidenced by the $$$ I've spent since my last post in this thread.:001_huh::lol:

I'm still pretty thrifty though...:cool:

[lovetobehome]

I would sell whatever I possibly could!

[christine in al]

Or does anyone else think it's a bit unfair when a husband tells his wife to do her job without spending money? I'd like to see these husbands do THEIR job without spending any money.

Maybe it's just me, but it seems mean. I am posting this because the OP said it was her friend , not herself who was doing this, so I am not meaning to attack the OP in any way, ,,, or any moms, however, husbands who think it's easy to do the magic their wives do,.,, well, I would challenge THEM.

Meanwhile. women are amazing and mothers are awesome and creative and inventive. go creative moms!!!
( and supportive dads too)

~Christine in al

[Heather in VA]

Or does anyone else think it's a bit unfair when a husband tells his wife to do her job without spending money? I'd like to see these husbands do THEIR job without spending any money.

Maybe it's just me, but it seems mean. I am posting this because the OP said it was her friend , not herself who was doing this, so I am not meaning to attack the OP in any way, ,,, or any moms, however, husbands who think it's easy to do the magic their wives do,.,, well, I would challenge THEM.

Meanwhile. women are amazing and mothers are awesome and creative and inventive. go creative moms!!!
( and supportive dads too)

~Christine in al

My problem with the idea of a DH saying it can be done without spending money is that it does not sounds like an ultimatum that comes from respect. If someone says to me, can you help me homeschool without spending money because we are in a very tough financial situation but DH and I think homeschooling is best for our family, then that's one thing. But declaring that it can be done without money just because you don't think you should have to spend money on it, knowing that in order to do so will be significant effort and work on the part of the wife, seems to me like it shows a lack of respect for her time and stress level and no indication that he values her work.

Heather

[sweetbaby]

Good for your friend! I'm a single mom homeschooling four and I just may be in that particular boat for the upcoming year. My budget is on a budget! If I am, I'm prepared to use the free resources that I have tried in the past here and there..

The Bible
KISS Grammar (free grammar)
MEP Math and Math-drills.com (free math program and worksheets)
123Teachme.com (free spanish)
Library for history, science and reading
Notebooking, Dictation, Book Reports, Outlines and Writing Handbook for writing
etc.

Ambleside and Old Fashioned Education are some other options

It can very well be done but dedication and consistency is a must.

[deeinfl]

Copywork, dictation, and narration from great book lists on the internet for every subject.

Lots of free spelling resources on the internet, even though I own Spelling Plus Dication and plan to use that through the 6th grade.

Free math resources on the internet until about the 6th grade, and then I own basic college math and I would use that for 6-8th grades.


Like many have posted, I would need to take the summer to organize my book lists, my copywork, and my math schedule. Everything that is successful to me, takes careful planning no matter the resources. But ultimately it's about reading, (science, history, bible, and fun reading for pleasure) writing, (written narrations, spelling dictations, etc.) and arithmetic.

:)

[babysparkler]

Well, curriculum junkie that I am, I think I could manage for a year or two with no pinch even. I guess that is cheating, though, huh?

Exactly what I was thinking :lol:

[stripe]

My problem with the idea of a DH saying it can be done without spending money is that it does not sounds like an ultimatum that comes from respect.
And also, unless one is in dire financial straits, it sounds as if education doesn't matter much. I'd rather cut back on clothes, eating out, and other things, in order to be able to afford educating them, which (to me) is an incredibly important thing.

Many of the "free" resources I have require things like my time, my paper, and my ink to actually use. However, there are some great ones out there.

[christine in al]

and refusing to fund his children's education. at all. What's that say to his children? Not only about his value of education, but of THEM.

They asked for bread and he's giving them stones.

okay, I'm done.
~christine in al

[chaik76]

I know this thread is from more than a year ago (and I answered then)!

I can think of a hundred million things Id rather do than comb the net and library for free resources to educate my kids.
Lol! I love to look up stuff on the internet, and I do utilize tons of free stuff...but most of our regular use stuff is purchased. I just like to research, so come up with things to do. And I hate using resources from the library and never do it.
Or does anyone else think it's a bit unfair when a husband tells his wife to do her job without spending money? I'd like to see these husbands do THEIR job without spending any money.

Maybe it's just me, but it seems mean. I am posting this because the OP said it was her friend , not herself who was doing this, so I am not meaning to attack the OP in any way, ,,, or any moms, however, husbands who think it's easy to do the magic their wives do,.,, well, I would challenge THEM.

Meanwhile. women are amazing and mothers are awesome and creative and inventive. go creative moms!!!
( and supportive dads too)

~Christine in alYep, this bothered me a lot the first time I read the thread. It's not something I would stand for, and I can't imagine not making us, as a couple (or individually) get counseling...I just wouldn't tolerate ultimatums like this (neither would dh...I would never do it to him and he would never do it to me). To be honest, there are lots of marriage practices and ways spouse treat each other, and what people put up with that truly amaze me.

My problem with the idea of a DH saying it can be done without spending money is that it does not sounds like an ultimatum that comes from respect. If someone says to me, can you help me homeschool without spending money because we are in a very tough financial situation but DH and I think homeschooling is best for our family, then that's one thing. But declaring that it can be done without money just because you don't think you should have to spend money on it, knowing that in order to do so will be significant effort and work on the part of the wife, seems to me like it shows a lack of respect for her time and stress level and no indication that he values her work.

Heather:iagree:

[Ishki]

I would absolutely have to have a math program from at least 4th gr. and on. Math is my weak area, and I would want to trust that to no more than internet worksheets. I think I could cover lang. arts, history and science through middle school with a library card. It wouldn't be easy though thinking of all the planning around so many different resources.

Fortunately, I've never had to that, and over the last 14 years I've collected enough curriculum that I'd be fine.

[Aurelia]

I don't think I could spend NO money for school. I work full time and I just don't have the time to spend researching, downloading, or writing my own lesson plans. That said, I could do it much more cheaply than I am, but it wouldn't be quite as much fun.

Now that I've played with it, maybe I could. It wouldn't be using my dream curricula, but doable if necessary. (FTR, I planned out for the year after next, since I've already bought nearly everything for this year, so it was kind of like cheating to say "Sure! I can do it with what I've got!" :tongue_smilie:)

Math: MEP
Handwriting: copy work from literature
Grammar: Sheldon’s PLL
Writing: homemade creative writing, narration, dictation
Spelling: Apples & Pears (because I already own all the levels :D)
Literature: library books and others I've already collected
Science: reuse BFSU, Handbook of Nature Study, FIAR Nature Study, Burgess Bird Book and do delight directed learning w/library books
History: CHOW, Our Island Story, Fifty Famous Stories Retold since I own them, and additional resources from library
Art: Probably books from the library, followed by having DD try to imitate some element of the work we were studying.
Music: Rocket Piano, since I bought it for myself and all the levels were included. We could easily check out Cds from the library for appreciation.

[Sebastian (a lady)]

:iagree:

RockerDad recently told me that we need to ask my nephew what it costs to put his kids in the local public school for 1 year (fees, supplies, lunch money, etc). He thinks it shouldn't cost us more to homeschool one than it does to send two to public school. We will have to homeschool on a tight budget... but there will be a budget.

I reminded him that we do not receive government funding. :lol:

I think it's important to remember that public school isn't without costs, both in fees and in intangibles like increased clothes budgets and the expected time spent on both homework and volunteering.

I think you can do a pretty good job for what the expected outlay for school is. But I'm not sure I could do two for the price of one (with the heavy lifting of books, lab equipment and copying covered by the tax supported budget rather than the families).

Take just lunch for example. Sure eating lunch at home is far less expensive than eating fast food every day (there isn't food service at the local high school. Students go to a couple nearby food courts.) But if there is a cafeteria with food service, then there will be subsidies for the food, both in budgeting for staff and equipment and direct government payment and use of subsidized food (like dairy products). I'm not sure how making comparable food at home would compare in price.

[lovetobehome]

I live in a rural, inexpensive area. Around here, the public schools spend $6,000 per student per year. Tell him that, grin, and assure him you will spend under that amount per child per year. Never had a year that I even came close to spending that much! :-)

[TXMary2]

I would use what I have, the library and the internet. In fact for this fall I am going to do as much as I can without spending too much and starting my planning now. I will still be spending money, but hopefully less than half that I normally do.

If I couldn't spend anything at all, I could do it, but it would be time consuming.

[Mommyfaithe]

I have a good friend that is homeschooling a child the same age as my oldest daughter. She has NEVER spent money for homeschool other than pencils and paper, craft supplies, and science supplies. Never spent a penny. Her husband is adamant that it can be done without spending money on it and so far she has. Her son is ahead of grade level in math and reading. He writes as well as any 8yo boy and loves history and science and is learning Japanese. She uses free worksheets from the internet and library books. She hasn't even bought a how-to homeschool book.

Our recent discussions have made me reconsider what I use for homeschool.

How much would your homeschooling methods change if you could not spend money for school? What would you use? Could you homeschool with no money for it?

I have done this with the exception of Math workbooks. Quite honestly, I think I was much happier without all the bog down of having to finish XYZ because I spent the money on it. I used the internet, a library card and my computer extensively. I also had a cheapo printer with re-fillable cartridges. I just may have to go back to those ways again with the economy as it is....and it really was not so hard.

~~~Faithe

PS, at this point, I could probably teach out of my school closet for the next 10 years at least :-)

[Sebastian (a lady)]

I live in a rural, inexpensive area. Around here, the public schools spend $6,000 per student per year. Tell him that, grin, and assure him you will spend under that amount per child per year. Never had a year that I even came close to spending that much! :-)

I had one year where I actually did have an allowance for curriculum. I didn't come anywhere near spending it, even with not holding back on buying what I thought would be useful.
I'm still using a lot of that material. (And, honestly, there is also plenty that I never really did use.

I think a high year for me would be around 3k for three kids. I know there are families for whom that is incredibly out of reach. But the private schools where we've lived has run 8k-13k. So I figure 3k is 1k each, which is less than $100 per month. I can spend that on my kids' future.

[delaney]

I think up to age 10-11 it may be doable but like PP said there comes a time when you have to invest something for the older kids. I am able to teach anything up to 6th but then my experience and education start to become spotty. I am now digging deeply into my mind to help DS do Geometry in public High school. Oddly it feels good to flex those muscles again!!! I could have been a professional student:001_smile:

[TaraTheLiberator]

If I had no money:

Math: MEP
Phonics: same as what I do now: keep checking out Phonics Pathways from the library, rotating whose card it is on to get around the renewal limits ;)
Grammar: any of the bazillion free grammar books on Google books + KISS
Memory Work: Poetry books and online lists
Writing: free Google books
Science: lots of resources at the library
History: ditto

At my kids' ages, that's really all I'd worry about getting covered if I truly had no money to spend.

Tara

[Mommyfaithe]

Good for your friend! I'm a single mom homeschooling four and I just may be in that particular boat for the upcoming year. My budget is on a budget! If I am, I'm prepared to use the free resources that I have tried in the past here and there..

The Bible
KISS Grammar (free grammar)
MEP Math and Math-drills.com (free math program and worksheets)
123Teachme.com (free spanish)
Library for history, science and reading
Notebooking, Dictation, Book Reports, Outlines and Writing Handbook for writing
etc.

Ambleside and Old Fashioned Education are some other options

It can very well be done but dedication and consistency is a must.

KYSHA! You are my hero!! Way to go!!!! I have used all of these resources with excellent results as evidenced by 2 dd's graduated from college with 4.0 GPA's. We just didn't have any money. Dh and I thought homeschooling was best for our kids and I used mainly Ambleside Online and a library card with lots of craft ideas etc. from the internet. I did have a cheapo printer that i refilled the ink cartridges on constantly. I bought paper in bulk at Sams where it was very cheap.

I am going back to that way again as I found it was a better fit for me and my family. We read...read....read....and talk...talk...talk....then write...write...write.

The only thing I really can not do without is math books for all. Those I have waiting to be used.

My budget has been put on a budget too due the the economy.

~~Faithe

[Poke Salad Annie]

I have done this with the exception of Math workbooks. Quite honestly, I think I was much happier without all the bog down of having to finish XYZ because I spent the money on it. I used the internet, a library card and my computer extensively. I also had a cheapo printer with re-fillable cartridges. I just may have to go back to those ways again with the economy as it is....and it really was not so hard.

~~~Faithe

PS, at this point, I could probably teach out of my school closet for the next 10 years at least :-)

This is my philosophy for our home school. I tried pre-packaged and preplanned, and found it just too frustrating trying to keep up with a schedule that was not mine. I also have the *cheapo* copier with refillable cartridges, and I spend pennies on all my printing needs. Our days are much happier and relaxed, and I think we are covering a greater amount of material with better retention.

I literally am homeschooling with finds from the thrift store for the next several years. Each time I visit any thrift store I challenge myself to see if I could find books to teach with, based upon a Charlotte Mason or Well Trained Mind style. I am always amazed at what I could put in my buggy for a year's worth of learning, for only pennies on the dollar. Granted, this is not everyone's preferred mode of homeschooling, but it works for us. It seems with the literal plethora of homeschooling books and programs, there is more confusion and distress among homeschool moms (and dads too). It seems we are all making it harder on ourselves than it has to be, and that we're all looking for that one thing that will be *perfect*---then finding out that it was not.

I feel that the WTM and Charlotte Mason Companion are books written to help us see a way to reach a goal, giving us examples of books or topics to cover---but not hemming us in with rigid guidelines. That is what is so beautiful to me about those two books, and I see them as very helpful in getting a view of the *big picture*. Just my 2 cents...

[Poke Salad Annie]

I did have a cheapo printer that i refilled the ink cartridges on constantly. I bought paper in bulk at Sams where it was very cheap.

This ^^^^

I am going back to that way again as I found it was a better fit for me and my family. We read...read....read....and talk...talk...talk....then write...write...write.

and this too ^^^^ :iagree:

~~Faithe

That's all of it in a nutshell.

[lovemykids]

:iagree:

I agree! Curricula can be stifling, stagnant even. It can box or hem you in. The marketing is ridiculous. They try (successfully) to tell you that you need to buy their curricula because there is no other one out there that will possibly come close to the outcome of using the one they want you to buy. And if you don’t back up and start from the beginning with their curricula, you are doomed. Also, if you don’t continue with the said curricula, you and your children will suffer greatly and you will damage your precious children forever. This type of faulty marketing really annoys me; I tend to avoid a curriculum that is marketed in this manner, like the plague. (even if its good material) It’s a big turn off to me. I would rather use honest curricula vendors, people who realize that there are many other valid choices out there.

I feel that books like WTM and CM offer a much deeper education than anything that you can find in a box.

:auto:

[shinyhappypeople]

I have done this with the exception of Math workbooks. Quite honestly, I think I was much happier without all the bog down of having to finish XYZ because I spent the money on it. I used the internet, a library card and my computer extensively. I also had a cheapo printer with re-fillable cartridges.

I'm running into this problem (the bolded sentence), which is one of my reasons for opting out of purchasing very much (if any?) curriculum for next year. We don't have a lot of money and it really bugs me when I spend any of it on certain things that weren't what I thought they'd be or that the DDs didn't like.

I absolutely reject the idea that by choosing not to purchase curriculum I'm placing a lower value on my DDs' education or dooming myself to a life of homeschool drudgery. That's just insulting!!

Here's where I'm coming from. I'd rather spend what little money we have on education that ISN'T curriculum... aquarium memberships, trips to the zoo, dance lessons and so on. And, even if we had no budget for those extras, reading wonderful books and spending time together as a family will give my girls the best start in life. THOSE are my essentials.

IMO, curriculum should be a supplement to a child's real education (relationships, discussions, good books, LIFE, hobbies, experiences) and not the main event. Sometimes I think we get stuck in the mindset that for our kids to learn anything we need a formal program. ("Ok, honey. It's time to learn how to bounce a ball! Let me just grab my TM and we'll get started!" :D I joke. And I am definitely guilty of this thinking myself at times. I want to detox myself from this thinking.)

When I remember learning something as a child, it is ALWAYS within the context of living books or DOING something (e.g. I remember fractions in the context of learning to bake as a 6 year old). That's what I want for my kids.

Oh lordy, I'm starting to sound like an unschooler. Save me! :lol:

(I'm not - but we're very, very relaxed and interest driven. And I'm obviously an unschooling sympathizer. :D)

So, um, what did this have to do with the OP, again? Sorry - got a little OT.

[mama25angels]

I have done this with the exception of Math workbooks. Quite honestly, I think I was much happier without all the bog down of having to finish XYZ because I spent the money on it. I used the internet, a library card and my computer extensively. I also had a cheapo printer with re-fillable cartridges. I just may have to go back to those ways again with the economy as it is....and it really was not so hard.

~~~Faithe

PS, at this point, I could probably teach out of my school closet for the next 10 years at least :-)

:iagree: this is what we're doing next year as well, even though we will be using some curriculum, most of what I bought was used and can be re used, but I mostly bought aides. Phonics tiles for $4.25 have been a big hit and they are helping my DS with his reading and spelling.

[Poke Salad Annie]

Here's where I'm coming from. I'd rather spend what little money we have on education that ISN'T curriculum... aquarium memberships, trips to the zoo, dance lessons and so on. And, even if we had no budget for those extras, reading wonderful books and spending time together as a family will give my girls the best start in life. THOSE are my essentials.

IMO, curriculum should be a supplement to a child's real education (relationships, discussions, good books, LIFE, hobbies, experiences) and not the main event. Sometimes I think we get stuck in the mindset that for our kids to learn anything we need a formal program. ("Ok, honey. It's time to learn how to bounce a ball! Let me just grab my TM and we'll get started!" :D I joke. And I am definitely guilty of this thinking myself at times. I want to detox myself from this thinking.)

When I remember learning something as a child, it is ALWAYS within the context of living books or DOING something (e.g. I remember fractions in the context of learning to bake as a 6 year old). That's what I want for my kids.


I bolded the above. I agree with every bit of this. The day I put down my *school-in-a-box* was the day I realized I was doing the same thing. Love the example of teaching how to bounce a ball! That's what it felt like to me. :lol:

[TaraTheLiberator]

He thinks it shouldn't cost us more to homeschool one than it does to send two to public school.

That doesn't make sense. Your nephew is not buying curricula and supplies for his kid. The school does that.

Homeschooling can be done for cheap or free, but to say that we can or should limit the budget to what parents of public-schooled kids pay doesn't have any logical basis.

Tara

[SeekingSimplicity]

That doesn't make sense. Your nephew is not buying curricula and supplies for his kid. The school does that.

Homeschooling can be done for cheap or free, but to say that we can or should limit the budget to what parents of public-schooled kids pay doesn't have any logical basis.

Tara.


I homeschool my kids for less than what it would cost to put them in ps. That's one of the agreements that I have with Dh, with us being and low income family and hs'ing potentially expensive.
But in the cost of ps I include clothes because the school has a dress code that a lot of the hand me downs my kids wear at home wouldn't fit into- so each kid would have to have a new wardrobe and a few pairs of shoes. Then all the usual supplies, and a backpack. We would have to buy all the kids workbooks for math and english. Lunches and concession stand for snack time. Gas driving them to and from school (because I'm not putting them on the bus, long story) Then there's all the fees they hit you up for during the year- field trips, fundraisers, and whatever else. I can estimate it costing at least $500 to get my 2 oldest started in ps kn the fall, not counting expenses during the year. I can buy their books for a year and hs them for less than that.



Anyhow, if I were to do it for free I would use MEP math, and the rest in library books, nature walks, and what ever field trips we could manage.

[Heather in VA]

I feel that books like WTM and CM offer a much deeper education than anything that you can find in a box.

:auto:

But CM and WTM aren't free. Maybe in the early years but even then they recommend curriculum. And the definitely recommend lab sciences in high school - pretty much impossible to do without buying something. I know from having a high schooler myself and being on the high school boards that many are taking to finding youtube videos of labs and then calling that a lab science but to me that's lying and misrepresenting the coursework.

I'm not saying that you can't be frugal but even following WTM and CM will require monetary resources at some point.

Heather

[wy_kid_wrangler04]

I would love to be able to, but IMO that would take soooo much time to get everything together and with my hectic family I dont have alot of extra time! I do as cheaply as possible, there are somethings I really need a curriculum for!

[Heather in VA]

That doesn't make sense. Your nephew is not buying curricula and supplies for his kid. The school does that.

Homeschooling can be done for cheap or free, but to say that we can or should limit the budget to what parents of public-schooled kids pay doesn't have any logical basis.

Tara

I agree. Although if you look at it the other way, I'd love to have what the school system pays for each kid. Our county gets almost 20K in tax money per kid. Send that my way and I'd be one happy camper :-).

Heather

[rockermom]

That doesn't make sense. Your nephew is not buying curricula and supplies for his kid. The school does that.

Homeschooling can be done for cheap or free, but to say that we can or should limit the budget to what parents of public-schooled kids pay doesn't have any logical basis.

Tara

Luckily, I've gotten him past this line of thinking. I explained to him that parents of public schooled kids don't pay for curricula and most of the supplies. He agreed.

We'll probably never be able to spend tons of money on homeschooling, but I don't think he'll balk at anything that I believe will be truly beneficial. :)

[Verity]

Homeschooling for nearly free may be doable, especially with younger kids, but would be harder as they get older. Also I have kids with learning disabilities so that just makes all learning harder. I just can't imagine how I would do my housekeeping, cooking etc (and keep my sanity) if I had to spend hours every day planning and finding more resources in addition to the hours that I already spend teaching my boys. I'm grateful to have some open and go curriculum, it makes it all doable.

[lovemykids]

But CM and WTM aren't free. Maybe in the early years but even then they recommend curriculum. And the definitely recommend lab sciences in high school - pretty much impossible to do without buying something. I know from having a high schooler myself and being on the high school boards that many are taking to finding youtube videos of labs and then calling that a lab science but to me that's lying and misrepresenting the coursework.
Wow. :001_huh:
I'm not saying that you can't be frugal but even following WTM and CM will require monetary resources at some point.

Heather

Agreed. Yes, not entirely for free, and they do recommend curricula, true. But I find that most of it is outside of the scope of the typical boxed curriculum, which may have that mentality that I was mentioning. I do love a curriculum that is planned out, don’t get me wrong. I simply do not believe that we should limit ourselves to it, or think that in some way we need it to give a good education. A good education can come in many forms.

High school materials can be made from the library as well. Yes, one will have to buy the supplies, but that’s a given. Personally, I’d rather not do it that way but it can be done.

I like to think of science and history curricula as supplemental to our library/living books studies in the early years. ;)

[shinyhappypeople]

Homeschooling for nearly free may be doable, especially with younger kids, but would be harder as they get older. Also I have kids with learning disabilities so that just makes all learning harder. I just can't imagine how I would do my housekeeping, cooking etc (and keep my sanity) if I had to spend hours every day planning and finding more resources in addition to the hours that I already spend teaching my boys. I'm grateful to have some open and go curriculum, it makes it all doable.

I think parents should do what works best for their family.

But, I think perpetuating the myth that homeschooling for free (or nearly free) requires "hours every day planning..." is not helpful. Trust me, I'm not a martyr and if I thought it would be a huge time suck, I wouldn't bother.

It does requires research in the planning stages - but not necessarily any more than researching traditional paid-for options. And if you use MEP for math (a GREAT program) and www.lessonpathways.com (http://www.lessonpathways.com) for the rest, it's all preplanned for you (grades K-5).

It also might be helpful for people concerned about time to re-read some of the threads about whether anyone on this board actually uses any curriculum as written. (Short answer: no) Almost all of us tweak, supplement and continue researching throughout the school year.

I'd venture a guess that most of us already go to the library anyway. That's the only extra effort it takes.