Homeschool Curriculum Options for Rhode Island Families
A guide to free, online and hands-on homeschool curriculum options, plus ideas for learning without a traditional curriculum
Choosing a homeschool curriculum doesn't have to be complicated. From free resources to online programs and hands-on options, there are plenty of ways to make homeschooling work for your family in Rhode island.
Free Homeschool Curriculum
Khan Academy is completely free and covers subjects including math, science, grammar and more. Kids can work through lessons and practice at their own pace, making it useful for both full-time learning and supplementing another curriculum.
The Good and the Beautiful offers curriculum for a variety of subjects, with many resources available as free downloads. It's a good option for families who want a more traditional approach while keeping costs down.
You can use the library to create your own curriculum by checking out books around the subjects your child is learning about. Choose a topic, grab a stack of books, add some activities and let your child’s questions guide where you go next. It’s a simple way to build a free, interest-led curriculum without buying a boxed program.
Online Homeschool Curriculum
Miacademy is an all-in-one online homeschool program covering multiple subjects. Lessons include videos, activities, quizzes and assignments, giving families a more structured online option.
Time4Learning offers self-paced, interactive lessons across multiple subjects and grade levels. It's an option for families looking for an online curriculum that gives kids some independence while keeping schoolwork organized.
Reading Eggs focuses specifically on early reading skills through interactive lessons, games and activities. It can be a good addition for younger kids who need extra reading practice without adding an entire curriculum.
If your child would rather play a game than do a math worksheet, Prodigy can make math practice a little more fun. Kids work on math skills while exploring a game-based world.
Online Tutoring
Need a little extra help with a tricky subject? Tutor.com provides online tutoring and homework help for students from kindergarten through high school, with support across a range of subjects. It can be a useful resource when you need another person to explain something in a different way or want some extra academic support without adding another full curriculum.
Pencil-and-Paper Homeschool Curriculum
This is one of my favorites for younger kids, covering Pre-K through 6th grade. The Brilliant Homeschool keeps learning off the computer and focuses on pencil-and-paper and hands-on activities. It's a great option for families looking for something more interactive without relying on screens.
Oak Meadow offers a secular, nature-based homeschool curriculum with pencil-and-paper lessons, books and hands-on activities. It covers a range of subjects and encourages kids to learn through reading, writing, creating and exploring the world around them.
Outside Curriculum
Wild Learning is a hands-on curriculum that takes learning outside through nature, games, movement, crafts and everyday experiences. It covers math and reading, giving kids the chance to practice skills through exploration and real-world activities instead of sitting at a desk with a traditional textbook.
But You Don't Actually Need a Curriculum
Here's something I wish more new homeschoolers heard: learning doesn't have to come in a curriculum box. Below are some ways we incorporate learning throughout our everyday lives, without a curriculum — and you can to.
Parts of speech: Play Mad Libs
Spelling: Write grocery lists, notes or letters
Fractions: Double or halve a recipe
Measuring: Let your child take over in the kitchen
Money: Give your child a budget at the grocery store
Nature: Keep a nature journal while exploring outside
Reading: Let your child choose books they're genuinely interested in
Science: Follow your child's questions and investigate them together
Art: Draw, paint, build and make things
Social studies: Visit museums, historical sites and local landmarks
Physical education: Go hiking, swimming, biking or head to the playground
Problem-solving: Play board games, puzzles and strategy games
You don't have to turn every activity into a lesson, either. Sometimes learning happens simply because your child is curious — and homeschooling gives you the freedom to follow that curiosity. Whether you use a full curriculum, mix and match different programs or create your own learning as you go, there is no single right way to homeschool. Find what works for your child, your family and your homeschool.
About the Author
M.J. Mercure is the founder and editor of Happy Homeschool RI, a publication connecting Rhode Island homeschooling families with local events, educational opportunities, and hands-on learning adventures. Subscribe to Happy Homeschool RI for weekly field trip ideas, local events, and homeschool resources delivered straight to your inbox.
Have an event or opportunity to share? Email happyhomeschoolmedia@gmail.com
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