Is Homeschooling Expensive?
This comes from yesterday’s post about homeschooling only being for upper class families. Is homeschooling expensive? It seems to be a common thread that those opposed to homeschooling like to claim. The answer, however, depends on the family. Yes, there are families who choose to buy expensive curriculums and tons of toys/books/etc…. That can all add up to quite a chunk of change. But not all families do this.
If you want to homeschool you do not need a lot of money. Many families homeschool on a tight budget, and many do so for practically free. I’ve talked before about frugal homeschooling and how it can be done for less. No matter if you use a set curriculum or are a loose unschooler, you can find ways to save money.
I’d love to hear any tips out there of how others homeschool for free or practically free. Please share your knowledge!
I found a great video on Youtube o this very topic that I wanted to share.
homeschool, money, free, education, cost of education
September 12th, 2007 at 8:31 am
Internet, Internet, INTERNET!!
There is an endless supply of free worksheets, lesson plans, ideas, research sources, etc.
Google is my best friend.
September 12th, 2007 at 11:51 am
We purchase very little for homeschooling. Most of our resources come from the library and the internet - free of charge. We make our own games, flash cards and learning activities out of cheap materials we have around the house.
When I do shell out some bucks for homeschool, I check the dollar stores. They have all kinds of things we can use. You can often pick up clearance school supplies and educational toys if you shop Walmart and Target at the right time of year.
Finally, more expensive things can go on birthday and Christmas lists so family members can both give a gift and contribute to their education at the same time.
September 12th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
I go to the library and check out books and movies. I check out What a X grader needs to know and really check the web. I spend my money on ink, paper, pencils and writing paper. As far as crafts, I don’t buy the name brand, I subsitute. Side walk chalk is an A plus!
September 13th, 2007 at 7:52 am
She’s one of my favorite subscriptions on YouTube. She also does some GREAT videos on AA hair care!
September 13th, 2007 at 10:12 pm
You should check out Life. On a Budget…all about homeschooling with a limited budget.
http://lobchatter.blogspot.com/
September 14th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
I would have to agree with Christine and say the internet. I also love my library.
September 18th, 2007 at 3:30 pm
Oh my goodness, if it was for upper class families then we definately wouldn’t be doing it! I homeschool for practically free by using the internet, library, field trips, a cheap museum pass that gets us in to all the local museums, trading books and resources with other HS moms, and watch sales for great deals on educational stuff.