Drowning in Curriculum Options? Here’s How to Keep Your Sanity

Take a deep breath — you are not alone. Let’s walk through how to quiet the noise and choose with confidence (and peace of mind).

1. There Is No “Perfect” Curriculum — Only What’s Right for Your Family

Here’s the truth: the perfect curriculum doesn’t exist. What works beautifully for one child may flop for another. And that’s okay. Your homeschool is unique — shaped by your child’s learning style, your teaching vibe, your values, and your season of life.

Instead of searching for “the best,” look for what fits you right now.

2. Start with Your Goals — Not a Catalog

Before clicking “add to cart,” ask yourself:

• What do I want this year to feel like?
• What do I want my child to gain?
• What are our priorities — peace, structure, creativity, independence?

When you get clear on your why, your choices get simpler. The goal isn’t to cram in everything — it’s to build a rhythm that works for your family.

3. Less Is More (Really!)

It’s easy to overcommit. A shiny math program, a hands-on science kit, a Charlotte Mason history set, art, music, a Latin supplement… It adds up fast!

Instead, focus on the core: Reading. Writing. Math.
If those are covered well, everything else can be sprinkled in over time. Remember: depth beats breadth.

4. Try Before You Buy

Many publishers offer free samples or trial lessons. Download them, print them, test them out. How does it feel to use them? Are your kids engaged? Are you burned out after one lesson?

Taking a test drive helps avoid costly regrets — and lets you find what truly clicks.

5. You Can Switch — Or Toss It Altogether

If something isn’t working, you are allowed to pivot. Even mid-year.

You are not married to a curriculum just because you bought it. Sometimes, setting something aside is the healthiest move for everyone involved.

6. Trust Yourself

You know your child better than any curriculum company ever will. Trust that inner voice. You’ve got instincts, wisdom, and more resourcefulness than you think. No boxed set can replace the heart and soul you bring to the table.

📌 Bonus Tips for Choosing Curriculum (Without the Stress)

🧠 Know Your Child’s Learning Style:
Do they thrive on structure? Love stories? Need movement? Matching curriculum to their learning style saves frustration. You can take our quiz here to discover the best learning style for your homeschool.

📚 Choose Curriculum That Matches Your Teaching Style Too:
If you hate crafts, don’t choose a curriculum loaded with them — even if it’s popular. Your energy matters.

⏰ Watch for Time Requirements:
Some curriculum requires hours of prep; others are “open and go.” Choose what fits your reality, not just your ideal.

💰 Don’t Blow the Budget:
There are incredible free and low-cost resources online. Check used curriculum groups, digital downloads, or your library.

👩‍👧 Talk to Other Homeschoolers:
Join our community or a local co-op. Ask what they love, what they’d skip, and what they wish they knew earlier.

🎯 Focus on Progress, Not Perfection:
You don’t have to cover everything in one year. Aim for growth and connection — not completion.

Final Encouragement:

Curriculum is a tool — not a boss. It’s there to serve your homeschool, not run it. So breathe. Give yourself grace. You’re not failing if you’re unsure — you’re growing, learning, and showing up for your kids in the most meaningful way possible.

You’ve got this mama! (Dads too)— one page, one lesson, one day at a time.