Tools for school
- Pencils & Pens
- Quality erasers
- Colored pencils
- Markers
- Crayons
- Oil Pastels
- Glue
- Scissors
- Stapler
- 3 Hole Punch
- Single hole puncher
- Tape and tape dispensers
- Glue & glue sticks
- Rubber bands
- Brads
- Construction paper
- Plain white paper
- Cardstock Paper
- Workboxes
- Date Stamp
- Timer
- Tote bag
- 3-ringed notebooks
- Dividers
- Loose leaf paper
- File folders
- Notebooks
- Writing Journals
- Math Manipulatives
- Ruler
- Protractor
- Clip board/s
- Dry Erase Sleeve
- Plastic Tray
- Dry Erase Board
- Laminator
- Computer
- Printer
- Tablet or e-reader
- Library card
- Microscope
- Telescope
- Goggles
- Test Tubes
- Scales
- Clock
Starting a homeschooling journey can be an exciting yet daunting task for new families. To help you navigate this transition, I’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist covering essential tools, resources, and engaging content to enrich your homeschooling experience.
Homeschooling Essentials Checklist
Basic Supplies:
- Pencils and pens
- Notebooks and loose-leaf paper
- Erasers and sharpeners
- Rulers, protractors, and compasses
- Art supplies (crayons, markers, paint)
- Binders and folders for organizing subjects
- A sturdy, comfortable desk and chair
- A reliable computer and printer
- High-speed internet connection
Advanced Tools:
- Scientific calculator
- Microscope for science experiments
- Globe or world map
- Educational posters (math formulas, historical timelines)
- A whiteboard or chalkboard with markers or chalk
Reading Materials:
- Classic literature collections for children (e.g., “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis, “The Complete Tales of Winnie-The-Pooh” by A.A. Milne)
- Age-appropriate science and history encyclopedias
- Workbooks for math, science, and language arts practice
Online Resources:
- Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) for lessons on a wide range of subjects
- Coursera (coursera.org) for advanced learners and high school students
- Project Gutenberg (gutenberg.org) for free classic literature ebooks
Educational YouTube Channels:
- CrashCourse (youtube.com/user/crashcourse) for engaging educational videos across subjects
- Numberphile (youtube.com/user/numberphile) for fascinating math topics
- SciShow (youtube.com/user/scishow) for curious minds interested in science
Documentaries and Educational Shows:
- “Planet Earth” and “Blue Planet” by BBC for breathtaking natural world insights
- “The Magic School Bus” series for younger kids to explore scientific concepts
- “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey” hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson for an exploration of the universe
Additional Resources:
- Local library membership for access to free books, audiobooks, and educational DVDs
- Educational apps and games for tablets or smartphones
- Memberships to local museums, science centers, or zoos for field trips
Homeschooling Community and Support:
- Join local or online homeschooling groups and forums for advice, support, and resource sharing
- Subscribe to homeschooling blogs and newsletters for tips, curriculum reviews, and creative teaching ideas
Planning and Record-Keeping:
- A planner or digital app to schedule daily activities, lessons, and breaks
- A portfolio or filing system to keep track of assignments, projects, and assessments
This checklist aims to equip new homeschooling families with the tools and resources needed for a successful and enriching educational experience. Remember, the beauty of homeschooling lies in its flexibility and the ability to tailor the learning environment to your child’s needs and interests. Happy homeschooling!