Homeschool Methods & Philosophies
Discover different approaches to homeschooling and find the philosophy that resonates with your family's values and goals.
There's no one "right" way to homeschool. Many families blend multiple approaches or change methods as their children grow. The key is finding what works best for your family's unique situation.
Note: Most homeschoolers use an eclectic approach, combining elements from different methods.
Based on the trivium model of learning, classical education divides learning into three stages: the grammar stage (knowledge absorption), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (eloquent expression).
Best for:
- • Families who value Great Books
- • Students who enjoy structure
- • Those interested in Latin/Greek
- • College-prep focused families
Key Features:
- • Heavy focus on literature and history
- • Latin language study
- • Memorization in early years
- • Socratic discussion in later years
Popular Programs:
Classical Conversations, Memoria Press, Veritas Press, The Well-Trained Mind
Emphasizes "living books" (quality literature) over dry textbooks, nature study, art and music appreciation, and short, focused lessons. Children are treated as persons deserving of the best ideas and materials.
Best for:
- • Families who love reading aloud
- • Nature-loving families
- • Those wanting gentle approach
- • Artistic/creative families
Key Features:
- • Living books vs textbooks
- • Nature journals
- • Short lessons (15-20 min)
- • Narration instead of tests
Popular Programs:
Ambleside Online (free), Simply Charlotte Mason, The Good and the Beautiful
Follows the child's interests and natural curiosity rather than a set curriculum. Parents facilitate learning by providing resources and experiences based on what the child wants to explore.
Best for:
- • Self-motivated learners
- • Families valuing freedom
- • Those rejecting traditional education
- • Parents comfortable with less structure
Key Features:
- • No formal curriculum
- • Learning through living
- • Follow child's interests
- • Real-world experiences
Resources:
Library, online resources, community activities, real-world experiences, mentorships
All subjects are integrated around a central theme or topic. For example, studying Ancient Egypt would include history, geography, art, literature, and even math problems related to pyramids.
Best for:
- • Multiple ages learning together
- • Visual/kinesthetic learners
- • Creative families
- • Those wanting connections between subjects
Key Features:
- • All subjects tied to one theme
- • Hands-on projects
- • Multi-age adaptable
- • Deep dive into topics
Popular Programs:
KONOS, Five in a Row, My Father's World, Build Your Library
Replicates traditional school setting at home with textbooks, workbooks, tests, and grades. Provides structure and measurable progress similar to public school.
Best for:
- • New homeschoolers
- • Students who like structure
- • College-prep focused
- • Working parents (independent work)
Key Features:
- • Textbooks and workbooks
- • Daily lesson plans
- • Tests and grades
- • Clear scope and sequence
Popular Programs:
Abeka, Bob Jones University Press, Sonlight, Calvert, Alpha Omega
Child-centered approach with specially designed materials and activities. Children learn through hands-on manipulation of materials in a prepared environment.
Best for:
- • Hands-on learners
- • Self-directed children
- • Families who can invest in materials
- • Elementary ages especially
Key Features:
- • Hands-on materials
- • Mixed-age learning
- • Child chooses activities
- • Practical life skills
Resources:
Montessori materials (can be pricey), DIY Montessori, library resources
Quick Comparison
| Method | Structure | Parent Involvement | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classical | High | High | Medium-High |
| Charlotte Mason | Medium | High | Low-Medium |
| Unschooling | Low | Medium | Low |
| Unit Studies | Medium | High | Medium |
| Traditional | High | Medium | Medium-High |
| Montessori | Low | Medium | High |
- Most families use an eclectic approach, mixing methods
- You can change methods as your children grow and mature
- Different children in the same family may thrive with different methods
- Start simple and add complexity as you gain confidence
- Connect with other homeschoolers using your chosen method for support
Ready to Explore Curriculum?
Now that you know the methods, find curriculum that aligns with your chosen approach