How to Build the Ultimate Homeschooling Classroom
To create an effective and engaging homeschooling classroom, having the right equipment and supplies is key. In this blog, EZ-Teach will outline the top five pieces of equipment and supplies that can greatly enhance a homeschooling environment:
2. High-Quality Laptop or Tablet
3. Projector or Interactive Whiteboard
5. Stationery and Art Supplies
If you are a homeschooling parent, follow our blog for more ideas and tips on homeschooling. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us so we can chat!
If you aren’t excited yet, this video is sure to pump you up about designing and organizing your own homeschooling classroom. Plus, you’ll gain lots of ideas!
The Ultimate Homeschooling Classroom
1. Curriculum Materials
If you watched the video above, you’ll hear homeschooling mom Jennifer remind you not to overdo it with your curriculum and to pick and choose. That’s right, you need to find curriculums that work for you and your children. While we won’t tell you which curriculum to use, here are some things we’ll review next:
Choosing a Comprehensive Curriculum
Supplementary Learning Materials
Researching Curriculums
Curriculum Ideas
Comprehensive Curriculum
Invest in a well-rounded curriculum that covers core subjects like math, science, language arts, and social studies. Look for options that are specifically designed for homeschooling, which often come with teacher guides, workbooks, and digital resources.
Supplementary Learning Materials
Remember to include extra resources such as:
Educational Workbooks
Activity Books
Hands-On Kits (e.g., science experiment kits, puzzles, etc.).
Educational Games
Flashcards
Base Ten Blocks, Counters
Maps
Movies
All these supplementary materials can help make learning more interactive and enjoyable. Plus you’ll find them helpful when reviewing multiple subject areas.
Here is a video outlining 9 things to consider when choosing a curriculum.
Researching Curriculums
Researching homeschool curriculums can be a thorough process, as there are many options available to suit different educational philosophies, subjects, and learning styles. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your research effectively:
Identify Your Educational Goals
Determine Learning Objectives: Decide what you want your child to achieve academically, socially, and personally. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, and interests.
Consider Learning Styles: While many people are debunking the idea of learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.) these days, it is helpful to understand how best your child learns and retains information and to find a curriculum that best caters to their needs.
Explore Different Homeschooling Approaches
Research Educational Philosophies: Familiarize yourself with various homeschooling methods, such as Classical Education, Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Unschooling, or Eclectic homeschooling. This will help you narrow down the type of curriculum that aligns with your educational philosophy.
Read Books and Articles: Look for books or articles on homeschooling methods to gain insights into different approaches and philosophies.
Use Online Resources
Curriculum Review Websites: Visit websites like Homeschool.com, The Homeschool Mom, and Cathy Duffy Reviews. These sites offer detailed reviews and comparisons of different curricula.
Forums and Social Media Groups: Join online forums or social media groups focused on homeschooling. Platforms like Facebook or Reddit have active communities where parents share their experiences and recommendations.
Check Provincial/State Requirements
Research Education Laws in Your Province or State: Each province/state has different homeschooling regulations. Check your local education department website for any curriculum requirements or guidelines for homeschoolers. For a review of homeschooling in Canada, have a look at our blogs, “Required Subjects for Homeschooling: Province by Province Part 1” and “Required Subjects for Homeschooling: Province by Province Part 2”.
Look for Local Support Groups: Local homeschooling groups often have resources and recommendations that align with provincial/state requirements.
Attending homeschooling conferences is one way to gain ideas and resources.
(Image Source: RDNE Stock project)
Attend Homeschooling Conferences and Fairs
Explore Resources in Person: Look for local or regional homeschooling conferences or curriculum fairs. These events often showcase various curriculum providers and allow you to speak directly with representatives and other homeschoolers.
Evaluate Curriculum Options
Sample Lessons: Many curriculum providers offer free samples or trial periods. Request sample lessons or units to evaluate the material's quality and how it fits your child’s learning style.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews from other homeschooling families who have used the curriculum. Look for feedback on ease of use, engagement, and effectiveness.
Consider Budget and Format
Assess Costs: Determine your budget for curriculum materials. Some options can be expensive, while others are affordable or even free.
Choose Format: Decide if you prefer a traditional textbook approach, online courses, or a hands-on, project-based format. Consider what will work best for your family.
Seek Recommendations
Ask Other Homeschoolers: Talk to other homeschooling families, whether in person or online, to gather their recommendations and insights. Contact EZ-Teach to connect personally with homeschooling parents!
Consult Educational Professionals: If possible, seek advice from educators or homeschooling consultants who can provide guidance based on your specific needs.
Trial and Flexibility
Be Willing to Adapt: Once you choose a curriculum, be flexible. Assess how well it works for your child and be open to making adjustments or switching curricula if necessary.
Track Progress: Regularly evaluate your child's progress and engagement with the curriculum to ensure it meets their learning needs.
By following these steps, you can effectively research and select a homeschooling curriculum that aligns with your family’s educational goals and values.
Ideas
Looking for more resources to build a curriculum for your homeschooling classroom? Here’s our top 10 list of online curriculum resources to help you in your homeschooling journey:
Our very own site offers a variety of resources for teachers and homeschoolers, including lesson plans, worksheets, and teaching tools across various subjects. It provides a user-friendly interface for accessing materials.
K12 provides online curriculum and educational resources for students in grades K-12. Their programs are designed to be flexible, offering both online classes and offline materials for homeschooling families.
This is an interactive online curriculum for preschool through 12th grade that includes engaging lessons in math, language arts, science, and social studies. It’s designed for flexible learning and includes progress tracking.
A comprehensive resource for homeschooling families, Homeschool.com offers reviews of different curricula, articles, and a community forum for support and ideas. It's a great place to find various curriculum options.
This website provides a wealth of resources for homeschooling families, including curriculum reviews, lesson plans, and helpful articles on homeschooling methods and approaches.
Scholastic offers free resources for students from Pre-K to 9th grade, including daily learning plans and activities. It covers a wide range of subjects and provides materials that are engaging and fun.
Designed for children ages 2-8, ABCmouse offers a comprehensive online curriculum covering reading, math, science, and art. The interactive platform engages young learners through games and activities.
Outschool connects students with live online classes on a variety of subjects taught by experienced teachers. This platform offers a range of unique classes, allowing for customization of learning experiences.
CK-12 provides free online textbooks, videos, exercises, and real-world applications for K-12 subjects, particularly in math and science. The platform allows for personalized learning paths.
This website offers a range of educational resources, including articles, videos, and interactive games focused on geography, science, and nature, making it an excellent supplemental resource for hands-on learning.
These resources provide a mix of structured curriculum options, supplemental materials, and interactive learning experiences to support homeschooling families in delivering a well-rounded education.
Watch the video and listen to Stacey (Kids Learning For Life) explain her kids’ computer setup.
2. High-Quality Laptop or Tablet
Ok, everyone is going to wonder what sort of technology they are going to need. While having basic internet access and a computer might just be enough, we’ll specifically highlight tablets and laptops. A laptop or tablet is recommended for easily accessing online learning resources, educational software, and virtual classes. It’s also great for research, typing assignments, and creative projects.
You’ll want to choose a device with a long battery life, good processing power, and a high-quality display. For younger children, a tablet with parental controls and protective cases is ideal. Here is some more detailed advice which includes recommendations, features to consider, and tips for choosing the right device for your needs:
Top Laptop Recommendations
Features: Lightweight, long battery life, and powerful M2 chip. It offers excellent performance for running multiple applications and high-quality graphics for creative projects.
Best For: Older students who need a powerful device for intensive tasks like video editing or programming.
Features: Known for its sleek design and stunning display, the XPS 13 offers robust performance, a long-lasting battery, and great portability.
Best For: Families looking for a premium Windows laptop that’s ideal for a variety of educational tasks.
Features: This 2-in-1 laptop functions as both a laptop and a tablet, making it versatile for drawing, note-taking, or presentations. It has a touch screen and good battery life.
Best For: Students who enjoy creative work, such as digital art or presentations.
Features: Another excellent 2-in-1 option, the Flex 5 offers solid performance, a comfortable keyboard, and a vibrant display at an affordable price.
Best For: Budget-conscious families seeking a flexible laptop that can handle everyday tasks.
Features: A versatile Chromebook that flips into tablet mode, offering access to Google apps and cloud storage. It’s lightweight and has a long battery life.
Best For: Younger students who primarily use web-based applications and require a simple, user-friendly interface.
Remember that you can try out devices in-store to see what meets your needs and goals.
(Image Source: Christina Morillo)
Top Tablet Recommendations
Features: The iPad is highly versatile, with access to a wide range of educational apps, and a large selection of accessories, such as the Apple Pencil for note-taking or drawing.
Best For: Younger students or those who prefer a lightweight, portable device for reading, studying, and creative activities.
Features: This high-performance Android tablet comes with an S Pen, making it great for note-taking and drawing. It has a vibrant display and robust multitasking capabilities.
Best For: Students who want a powerful tablet that supports various learning apps and productivity tools.
Features: A portable Windows tablet that can function as a laptop with the addition of a keyboard. It offers full Windows functionality, making it easy to run software and applications.
Best For: Students needing a full Windows experience in a portable format, suitable for running educational software.
Features: An affordable option that provides access to Amazon's ecosystem, including educational apps and Kindle books. It’s user-friendly and has a good battery life.
Best For: Younger students and families on a budget looking for a reliable tablet for reading and light educational tasks.
Features to Consider
Performance: Look for devices with at least an Intel i5 processor (or equivalent) and 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking.
Battery Life: Aim for a device that offers 8+ hours of battery life to last through the school day without frequent charging.
Storage: Consider the amount of storage you’ll need for applications, files, and educational materials. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more reliable.
Portability: Lightweight devices are easier for younger students to handle and for families to transport.
User-Friendly Interface: Choose an operating system that aligns with your family’s needs (Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or iOS).
Tips for Choosing the Right Device
Assess Your Curriculum Needs: Consider what applications and software your curriculum requires. Some might work better on specific operating systems.
Look for Educational Discounts: Many manufacturers offer discounts for students and educators. Check for deals from retailers and educational websites.
Consider Accessories: Depending on the age of your child, you might want to invest in accessories like a keyboard, stylus, or protective case to enhance the learning experience.
Test Before You Buy: If possible, try out devices in-store to see which one feels comfortable and meets your needs.
By investing in a high-quality laptop or tablet with the right features and specifications, you can create an effective and engaging homeschooling environment that supports a wide range of educational activities and learning styles.
Elevate your homeschooling classroom experience with a projector or interactive whiteboard!
(Image Source: Mikhail Nilov)
3. Projector or Interactive Whiteboard
Using a projector or interactive whiteboard can significantly elevate the homeschooling experience by transforming any space into a dynamic learning environment. Here are three recommended options that cater to different needs and budgets:
Epson VS250 SVGA Projector
Features:
The Epson VS250 is a high-quality, affordable projector with 3,200 lumens of brightness, providing clear images even in well-lit rooms. It supports SVGA resolution (800x600), which is suitable for basic presentations, videos, and educational content.
It has multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, VGA, and USB, making it compatible with various devices like laptops, tablets, and DVD players.
Best For: Families looking for a budget-friendly projector for basic educational use, such as displaying videos, presentations, or digital textbooks.
Pros: Bright and vivid picture quality, easy setup, and portable design.
Cons: Lower resolution compared to higher-end models, which may not be ideal for detailed graphics.
BenQ MW535A WXGA Projector
Features:
This mid-range projector offers WXGA resolution (1280x800), making it suitable for displaying clearer text and more detailed images. It has 3,600 lumens of brightness, which allows for better visibility in different lighting conditions.
It supports a variety of input options, including HDMI and VGA, and has built-in speakers, adding convenience for multimedia use.
The BenQ MW535A also features an eco-friendly mode that extends the lamp's life up to 15,000 hours, making it a durable and long-term investment.
Best For: Families who need a more versatile projector for both educational and entertainment purposes, such as streaming educational videos, interactive lessons, or movie nights.
Pros: Higher resolution and brightness, energy-efficient, and durable.
Cons: Slightly higher cost compared to entry-level models, but worth it for the enhanced features.
SMART Board SB480 Interactive Whiteboard
Features:
The SMART Board SB480 is an interactive whiteboard that allows users to write, draw, and manipulate content directly on the screen. It connects to a computer or laptop and uses touch technology for an interactive learning experience.
It comes with SMART Notebook software, which includes tools for creating interactive lessons, games, and quizzes.
The board is wall-mountable and can be used with a projector to display images that students can interact with, making it a versatile tool for teaching different subjects.
Best For: Families looking for an all-in-one interactive solution that combines the functionality of a whiteboard, touchscreen, and digital display for hands-on learning.
Pros: Offers a true interactive experience, software compatibility, and multi-touch capabilities.
Cons: More expensive than standard projectors, requires a computer and projector to function.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Projector or Interactive Whiteboard
Brightness (Lumens): For bright rooms, aim for a projector with at least 3,000 lumens to ensure clear visibility.
Resolution: Higher resolution projectors (e.g., WXGA or HD) provide sharper images, especially useful for text-heavy presentations.
Connectivity: Look for devices with multiple input options (HDMI, USB, VGA) to ensure compatibility with your other tech tools.
Portability: If you need to move the projector around the house, consider a lightweight and portable model.
Touch Interactivity: For an interactive whiteboard, multi-touch capabilities allow more than one person to interact with the board simultaneously, which is ideal for group activities.
Why Use a Projector or Interactive Whiteboard?
Projectors and interactive whiteboards make lessons visually appealing and engaging, allowing for a mix of multimedia content, such as videos, slideshows, and interactive applications. They provide a hands-on way to teach various subjects, from math and science to art and history, enhancing the overall homeschooling experience.
By choosing the right projector or interactive whiteboard based on your family’s needs and budget, you can create a more engaging and versatile learning space for your homeschooling classroom.
While there is nothing wrong with reading while lounging on the couch, we’ll outline the importance of having comfortable desks and chairs for the ultimate homeschooling classroom.
(Image Source: Tima Miroshnichenko)
4. Comfortable Desk and Chair
Having a comfortable desk and chair is crucial for a productive and healthy homeschooling environment. Proper seating and desk arrangements can significantly impact a child's ability to focus and learn effectively. Here’s why it's important:
Ergonomic Benefits
A well-designed desk and chair setup promotes good posture, which helps prevent discomfort and potential long-term health issues such as back or neck pain. Adjustable chairs with lumbar support and desks at the right height ensure that children can sit comfortably while studying or working on projects.
Enhanced Focus and Productivity
Comfortable seating allows students to stay focused for longer periods, minimizing distractions caused by discomfort. A properly sized desk provides enough space for books, laptops, and other learning materials, helping keep the workspace organized and reducing clutter.
Promotes Healthy Study Habits
Investing in quality furniture teaches children the importance of creating a dedicated, organized space for learning. This can encourage better study habits, as having a consistent, comfortable area helps establish a routine and mindset conducive to learning.
Choosing the right desk and chair can significantly improve your child’s homeschooling experience, making learning more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run.
Recommendations
Here are three quick recommendations for a comfortable desk and chair setup for homeschooling:
Micke Desk and Renberget Chair (IKEA)
Features: The Micke desk is compact, with a cable management compartment and a built-in storage drawer. Paired with the Renberget chair, which is height adjustable and has lumbar support, this setup offers good ergonomics at a reasonable price.
Best For: Families looking for an affordable yet functional study space that supports basic ergonomic needs.
FlexiSpot Height Adjustable Desk
Features: A standing desk that allows for both sitting and standing positions, which is great for adding movement throughout the day. Pair it with an ergonomic chair for complete comfort.
Best For: Older students who need more flexibility and options for different tasks.
Pahl Desk and Markus Chair (Ikea)
Features: The Pahl desk is height-adjustable, making it suitable for kids of various ages, while the Markus chair provides excellent lumbar support with its high back and breathable mesh.
Best For: Budget-friendly option without compromising on ergonomic features.
These options cater to different needs and budgets, ensuring comfort and a proper study environment.
Watch this video for other ideas you might not think to get for your homeschooling classroom.
5. Stationery and Art Supplies
Having a variety of stationery and art supplies is essential for a well-rounded homeschooling experience. A variety of supplies encourages creativity and can make note-taking and assignments more organized too. While you can buy extra items for your homeschooling classroom like a laminator, fidget-friendly seating, and visual timers, here are some basic items you’ll want to have ready for everyday tasks:
Basic Items
Notebooks
Pens
Pencils, Erasers, and Sharpeners
Highlighters
Rulers
Markers
Scissors
Binders
Don’t forget to get dry-erase pockets (reusable sleeves or clear plastic sheet protectors so you can put worksheets in them, have your kids work on problems with a dry-erase marker, erase, and use again. This is such a good idea if you have multiple kids!
Art Supplies
And then there are art supplies to allow for creative projects that enhance learning. You’ll want to have items such as:
Various Paints (finger paints, watercolour paint, acrylic paints)
Paintbrush Set
Coloured Pencils
Oil Pastels and Chalk
Craft Paper / Construction Paper
Sketchpads and Drawing Paper
Modelling Clay or Play-Doh
Craft Foam and Felt
Beads and Jewelry-Making Kits
Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
Stickers and Stencils
Next, we’ll look at what you’ll need to organize all your materials and supplies!
See what one homeschool mom says are the must-have organizational supplies!
Organizational Supplies
Bookshelves or Storage Cubbies
Plastic Bins or Drawers, Craft Storage Bins
Wall Calendar or Planner
File Folders and Binders
Label Maker
Magnetic Whiteboard or Corkboard
Desk Organizer
Clipboards
Color-Coded Folders or Tabs
Rolling Cart
Keeping a stocked supply of these materials encourages hands-on activities, reinforces lessons, and supports different learning styles, making the homeschooling experience more engaging and enjoyable for students. However, if you don’t have time or money to gather all these resources, keep it simple. Here is an article called “First Day Stationary” which provides a simplified list for the first day of school.
Enjoy Education with EZ-Teach
We hope you enjoyed our guide on building the ultimate homeschooling classroom. Whether you are a homeschooling parent, a teacher, or a learner, we have something for you. For more help, follow our blog, browse the curriculum, or contact us!
