| Copyright 2006 Julie Shepherd Knapp |
| Copyright 2006 Julie Shepherd Knapp. All rights reserved. |
| about the book |
| The Homeschool Diner's Guide to Homeschooling Basics Can I homeschool on a budget? by Julie Shepherd Knapp, copyright 2006 Just about any homeschool approach can be done on a budget. Here are some good suggestions for cheap homeschooling: 1. Use library resources whenever possible. Books that describe and explain the various homeschooling methods and philosophies are available thru most public library systems. Ask your librarian about using "Inter-Library Loans" if you only have access to a very small branch library or only a Book Mobile. Most elementary and middle school subjects can be taught using library books and educational videos. 2. Use online resources whenever possible. If you have Internet access you have a world of educational materials at your fingertips. There are free online alternatives to most purchased packaged curricula -- tutorials, lesson plans, worktexts, worksheets, practice sheets, coloring sheets, connect-the-dot's, tests, activity guides, craft instructions, study guides, and even online textbooks. Learn how to do Google searches... and Google often. If you don't have a home computer, check with your library -- most US public libraries provide free Internet access on a sign-up basis. 3. Look for used and free items. Keep your eyes open for bargains! Second-hand stores, used book stores, and yard sales are great places to find homeschool resources for *very* low prices. Many large homeschool groups have yearly book/used curriculum sales (often in the spring) where you can pick up items at half price or better. Shop online for used materials -- do a Froogle search for the product you're looking for. Join local e-groups and national forums for selling and buying used homeschool items. Keep an eye open for free materials in places such as Book Mooch and the Free Homeschool Yahoo! Group, the Homeschool Educational Free Market Yahoo! Group, and PaperbackSwap.com . 4. Make your own. Use household items and craft supplies instead of purchasing manipulatives, worksheets, games, and equipment. Find free online tutorials and learning modules that can take the place of purchased lesson plans. 5. Team up with other homeschoolers. Set up co-operative learning exchanges with other homeschool families. Arrange to "share" the cost and use of particular materials with a homeschooling friend. Ask if you can borrow or rent educational items from friends. Check the FreeHomeschool Yahoo! Group for items you may need. Get together a group of students to share the cost of a single tutor. Look for (or arrange) group classes and activities that can take the place of costly individual lessons. 6. Ask about "Educator's Discounts". When you have to buy new products, or when you are arranging a visit to a museum or buying tickets to a performance, ask if "teachers" get a discount, then ask if homeschool educators are included -- they usually are. We are educators, and businesses usually value our patronage. Some businesses require proof of homeschooling, often a membership card from a homeschool support group will do. Related Issues The Three Rules of Not Buying from Cindy's Porch -- good advice for those new to living on a single-income budget |