admin, Author at How To Homeschool For FREE

Teach Your Monster to Read – FREE Learning Game!

September 3, 2024 Leave a Comment

It’s always refreshing to find fun, effective learning games that are completely free! Teach Your Monster to Read is a learning game that teaches new readers everything from letters to sounds, all the way to reading full sentences. The game is completely FREE on computers and $8.99 for the app in the App Store, Google Play, and Amazon App Store.

Your little one can start playing for free HERE.

They also have other learning games including Reading for Fun and Numbers and Skills!

Be sure to check out all of our posts on free educational apps here at How toHomeschool for Free!

***Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Educational Apps, Educational Games, Phonics, Preschool, Reading, Young Readers

ALL of our Resources on Getting Started Homeschooling in One Place!

September 2, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

I wanted to let you know that for those in the beginning stages of homeschooling or those looking for more ideas and continual growth as home educators our new page, How to Get Started Homeschooling for Free, is launched and ready! We’ve put together a comprehensive guide that walks you through the entire process—from understanding state laws to choosing the right curriculum—all without spending a dime.

This page is easy to navigate and filled with free resources, including curriculum options, printable planners, and educational tools to help you plan and manage your homeschooling journey effectively. Whether you’re a first-time homeschooler or transitioning from a traditional school, our guide offers practical tips tailored to different needs and learning styles. And you can always find this page easily by going to the “Getting Started!” tab on the far left side of the toolbar:

Head over to our How to Get Started Homeschooling for Free and find everything you need to begin homeschooling confidently and affordably! And feel free to share this with anyone you know that is new to their homeschooling journey or looking for more ways to more efficiently and effectively homeschool!

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Getting Started Homeschooling

Free Printable Homeschool Report Card!

August 31, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

Free Printable Homeschool Report Card

Keeping track of your child’s progress throughout the homeschooling year can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between lesson plans, activities, and everyday learning adventures, finding a simple and effective way to record achievements and growth can be a challenge. That’s why this free printable homeschool report card from Highland Heritage Homeschool is such a fantastic resource. It offers a straightforward way to document your child’s academic progress, and best of all, it’s completely free! Read More

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Free Report Cards, Freebies, Getting Started Homeschooling, Resources

How to Transition from Public School to Homeschool: Tips for a Smooth Adjustment!

August 29, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

Making the switch from public school to homeschooling can feel like a big leap, but it’s a decision many families make for various reasons—whether it’s to provide a more personalized education, address specific needs, or simply to embrace a different way of learning. If you’re considering or have recently decided to transition from public school to homeschooling, you’re likely experiencing a mix of excitement and uncertainty (especially when it comes to “socialization”). And that’s completely normal!

The good news is that with a bit of preparation and a flexible mindset, you can make this transition smooth and positive for both you and your kids. Here are some tips to help you get started on the right foot: Read More

Give Yourself Time to De-School
One of the most important steps in transitioning from public school to homeschooling is allowing time for de-schooling. De-schooling is a period where both parents and children adjust to the new learning environment without the structure and expectations of a traditional school setting. This period is crucial because it helps break away from the conventional school mindset and allows everyone to relax into a new rhythm. Don’t worry about diving straight into formal lessons right away. Use this time to explore learning in a more organic and child-led way, which could mean visiting museums, reading books together, doing nature walks, or even home economic activities such as baking. The goal is to create a positive learning atmosphere without the pressure of a structured curriculum right off the bat.

Find Your Homeschooling Style
There are so many different ways to approach homeschooling, from classical education to unschooling, Charlotte Mason to unit studies. Spend some time researching the various methods and styles to see what resonates with your family’s values, interests, and learning styles. We’ve put together an entire Homeschooling Philosophy Spotlight Series to help you understand what the best fit for your family is. It’s okay if it takes a little while to figure out what works best for your child. The beauty of homeschooling is its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make adjustments as you go.

Create a Flexible Routine
While it’s important to have some structure in your homeschool day, it’s equally important to remain flexible. A strict 8-to-3 schedule isn’t necessary, and one of the benefits of homeschooling is the ability to tailor your day to fit your family’s needs. Start by setting a loose routine that balances academics with breaks, outdoor time, and other activities. Remember, learning happens in many forms and doesn’t always need to look like sitting at a desk. You might find that some days are more productive than others, and that’s perfectly okay!

Set Up a Learning Space
Creating a dedicated learning space can help your child feel more comfortable transitioning from a public school environment to homeschooling. This doesn’t mean you need a full classroom setup, but having a specific area for homeschooling can help establish a routine and minimize distractions. Whether it’s a corner of the dining room table or a cozy reading nook, having a place where schoolwork happens can make the learning experience feel special and intentional.

Connect with Other Homeschool Families
Finding a supportive community can make a huge difference when you’re new to homeschooling. Look for local homeschool groups, co-ops, or online communities where you can meet other families who are also homeschooling. These connections can provide encouragement, resources, and social opportunities for both you and your child. It’s comforting to know that you’re not alone and that there are others who understand what you’re going through.

Be Patient with Yourself and Your Child
The transition to homeschooling can take time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself and your child during this adjustment period. There will be a learning curve as you figure out what works best for your family. It’s okay to have days that don’t go as planned or moments when you second-guess your decision. Remember why you chose to homeschool in the first place and trust that you are capable of providing a wonderful education for your child.

Focus on Building a Love of Learning
One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the ability to foster a genuine love of learning. Take advantage of the flexibility to explore your child’s interests and passions. Encourage curiosity, ask questions, and engage in hands-on activities that make learning fun and meaningful. When children are excited about what they’re learning, it becomes less about checking off boxes and more about a joyful exploration of the world around them.

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Articles, Getting Started Homeschooling

How to Figure Out Your Homeschooling Philosophy!

August 28, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

When we started our homeschool journey years ago, I was a complete novice. I didn’t know there were different approaches to at home learning, and I certainly didn’t know I could choose whichever method best matched my children’s learning style. Well, you don’t have to be like me! You can take advantage of some hard-won knowledge and learn basics right here! Think of this post as your one-stop, homeschool methods 101, crash course. Also, if you’re not sure where to begin, take this Homeschool Philosophy Quiz to find out what fits your family’s style! Read More

There are actually many different methods or approaches to homeschooling, but for the sake of efficiency we’ve collected the most prominent 6 for you here.

The Classical Approach

Why not start with the classics, right? The classical approach is a very popular method that parallels a teaching style dating back to the Greeks and Romans. A classical education is language-based, rather than hands-on or video-based like many of the other homeschooling styles. Subjects are taught in chronological order so they can overlap historically making events in history much easier to follow. Learn more by clicking here!

Charlotte Mason Method

Charlotte Mason was a highly respected British educator of the nineteenth century. She believed in teaching to the whole child and that all learning should be delightful. The Charlotte Mason method is based on Charlotte’s firm belief that the child is a person and we must educate that whole person, not just his mind. So a Charlotte Mason education is three-pronged: in her words, “Education is an Atmosphere, a Discipline, a Life.” Read more here!

Traditional or Textbook Approach

This one is a tried and true way to educate, and also probably the easiest for beginners, since it most closely resembles the traditional school setting. There are lesson plans for you to follow, children learn with textbooks at a desk or some other designated learning space. Read all about this method here!

Unschooling

I know what it sounds like! But this approach works wonders for lots of people! In basic terms, unschooling is a method of learning that does not follow a curriculum, but instead allows a child’s natural interests to guide the parent in what to study. It’s outside the box and unique, which are pillars of many homeschool families’ core learning principles. Click here for more information on unschooling.

Online Schooling

This is quickly becoming the more popular method of homeschooling! Online learning includes a variety of options for guided or self-paced studies, and lesson plans and grading are all done for you! Check out the details here!

Eclectic Method

Homeschooling definitely requires consistency and dedicated effort. But it also affords flexibility like no other form of education can. This method maximizes that flexibility, allowing you to utilize whatever styles work best for you and your kids! Read all about it, right here!

Homeschool Philosophy Quiz

If you’re unsure where to begin, don’t stress! Here is a handy little quiz to find out what method best fits you and your family. You may even find that a blend of styles makes the most sense for you!

***Make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily encouragement in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Getting Started Homeschooling, Homeschool Philosophy

HUGE Resource for FREE Downloadable Printables for Lots of Subjects!

August 23, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

I wanted to share with you guys an awesome resource that I’ve found – a HUGE collection of FREE downloadable printable worksheets! Downloadable Worksheets has a section of their site that offers a wide range of worksheets and activities that cover everything from math to language arts, plus plenty of seasonal and themed options that can bring a little extra fun to the learning process. Read More

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Printables

FREE Printable Superhero High Intensity Interval Training for Kids! (HIIT)

August 21, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

When it comes to homeschooling, sometimes the hardest part isn’t the academics—it’s keeping our kids active and healthy when they’re spending so much time indoors! We all know the benefits of physical activity for children, but finding the time or the right resources to incorporate exercise into our daily routine can be a challenge. That’s why I had to share this fantastic, free resource with you: a HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workout for kids, available as a FREE printable! Read More

Be sure to check out the rest of our FREE P.E. & Outdoors Resources and all of our free printable homeschooling resources How to Homeschool for Free!

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Core Subjects, P.E. & Outdoors, Printables

FREE Printable Coloring Pages for Every Subject!

August 20, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

Free Printable Coloring Pages

As we move into the regular school season I wanted share a free resource that is wonderful not only as a fun activity but also a great supplement to any subject you’re studying! Super Coloring is a site packed with a huge variety of coloring pages that can be used with almost any subject you’re teaching.

Whether you’re diving into history, exploring the wonders of science, or even touching on geography, you can find a coloring page that fits with what your kids are studying. The site offers everything from historical figures and landmarks to animals, plants, and even intricate designs that older kids might enjoy.

Coloring can be a fantastic way to reinforce lessons and make learning more interactive and enjoyable. It provides a creative outlet while also helping kids retain the information they’re learning. For example, when studying history, you can find pages related to the era or event you’re covering, giving your children a visual connection to the material. In science, there are detailed images of animals, plants, and other things from nature that can help bring the subject to life.

This resource is not just limited to younger children; there are plenty of more complex designs available that can challenge older kids as well. These coloring pages can serve as a creative break, a supplement to your lessons, or even a way to keep younger kids engaged while you focus on teaching an older child. (something that is ALWAYS helpful 🙂

You can head over to Super Coloring HERE and find the pages you want to print. Happy coloring! 🙂

Make sure to check out ALL FREE Printables we have available here at How to Homeschool for Free!

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Printables

OVER TWENTY of the TOP FREE Math Apps For All Ages for Apple iOS and Android!

August 16, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

The Top FREE Math Apps for Apple and Android

Math Apps are a great way to supplement your regular math curriculum whether you want to give your kids a more productive way to spend screen time or if you’re on trips, vacations, or long car rides. To help you find the best apps for your kids here are over twenty of the top free math apps out there for all grades!

Looking for more FREE math educational materials for your kids? Check out our full list of FREE math curriculum online AND our master list of FULL FREE online homeschooling curriculums!

Microsoft Math Solver uses AI to solve math problems by scanning handwritten or typed problems. It provides detailed solutions with explanations, covering topics from elementary arithmetic to advanced calculus. The app also includes interactive graphs and step-by-step instructions for better understanding. Available on iOS and Android. Read More

Khan Academy App – A staple in many home-school classrooms, Khan Academy offers video lessons in a variety of subjects to all ages of students. It’s completely FREE and available for Android, iOS and online. The user-friendly dashboard allows students, parents, and teachers to track progress easily.

Khan Academy Kids offers a comprehensive, personalized learning experience for children ages 2-8. It covers various subjects, including math, with interactive lessons, games, and activities. You can download Khan Academy Kids on iOS and Android.

Brilliant offers interactive problem-solving opportunities across a range of STEM subjects, including math. It’s designed to help students learn by doing, with a focus on logic, algebra, geometry, and more. Brilliant is great for students who want to challenge themselves with higher-level math and critical thinking problems. You can download Brilliant on iOS and Android.

Photomath App – Photomath is another app that allows you to snap a picture of your math problem, then offers step-by-step instruction, breaking down each concept and giving you the solution. It’s an excellent resource for students of all ages (parents too). Available on iOS and Android.

Desmos Graphing Calculator – Offers a highly interactive graphing calculator that allows students to plot functions, explore transformations, and create tables. It’s perfect for visualizing complex algebraic equations and calculus problems. The app is widely used by teachers and students for its user-friendly interface and powerful graphing capabilities. It is available on iOS and Android.

Brainscape Flash Cards Math App – Available for FREE on both iOS and Android based platforms, this unique app for all ages allows your student to input his or her information and then generates a study plan tailored just for them. Brainscape personalizes the timing of each flashcard repetition, determining the right time to quiz again to optimize memorization.

Geometry Pad App – FREE for Android and iOS, Geometry Pad allows students to create fundamental geometric shapes, explore and change their properties, and calculate metrics. It even features a compass tool!

The Math Learning Center Apps – Aimed at ages 4-11, these FREE apps are available for iOS and online. (not available for Android) Based on the comprehensive PreK–5 curriculum from Bridges in Mathematics, the 13 apps in The Math Learning Center are based on visual models a that equip teachers and parents to fully implement the Common Core State Standards. Though they aren’t gamified like other math apps in this list, they provide a digital alternative to traditional flashcards and worksheets.

GeoGebra is a dynamic mathematics graphing calculator that combines geometry, algebra, calculus, and statistics in a single platform. It’s ideal for students who need to visualize and explore mathematical concepts interactively. The app is particularly useful for understanding geometric transformations, functions, and statistical data analysis. Get GeoGebra on iOS and Android.

Prodigy is a fantasy-themed math game that adapts to the user’s skill level. It covers a wide range of math topics for grades 1-8, making learning math fun and engaging. You can find Prodigy on iOS and Android.

SplashLearn offers math games and activities for kids from Pre-K to Grade 5. It adapts to the child’s learning pace, making it ideal for individualized learning. SplashLearn is available on iOS and Android.

Symbolab is another advanced calculator that provides solutions to algebra, calculus, trigonometry, and other mathematical problems. It breaks down each problem step-by-step, helping students understand the process behind the solution. It’s a great tool for both homework assistance and learning complex math topics. Symbolab is available on iOS and Android.

Math Kids is an educational app for preschoolers that covers basic math skills like counting, addition, subtraction, and number recognition through interactive games. Math Kids is accessible on iOS and Android.

Moose Math is designed for children ages 3-7 and helps them develop foundational math skills such as counting, addition, subtraction, and shapes through fun activities. Moose Math can be downloaded on iOS and Android.

Mathletics offers a range of math games and activities for children from Kindergarten to Grade 12. It is aligned with educational standards and includes adaptive learning features. You can find Mathletics on iOS and Android.

Kahoot! Numbers by DragonBox introduces children to numbers and basic math operations through playful and engaging puzzles. It’s suitable for children aged 4-8. DragonBox Numbers is available on iOS and Android.

Todo Math is designed for young learners ages 3-8 and includes daily math challenges, interactive lessons, and games that cover a variety of math topics. Todo Math can be downloaded on iOS and Android.

Number Pieces is a visual math tool that helps children understand place value and arithmetic operations using base-ten blocks. It’s suitable for elementary-aged students. Number Pieces is available on iOS only.

Monster Math is an engaging game-based learning app that covers addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division for kids in grades K-5. You can find Monster Math on iOS and Android.

Matific offers interactive math activities and games for grades K-6, focusing on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Matific is available on iOS and Android.

IXL offers practice in a wide range of math topics for Pre-K through 12th grade. The app provides instant feedback and detailed explanations to help kids learn. IXL is available on iOS and Android.

Math Playground offers a variety of math games, puzzles, and logic challenges for kids in grades 1-6, covering a wide range of math skills. Even though Math Playground is not available in the app stores and only available for playing online it is still a resource worth checking out.

Sushi Monster is a fun and engaging app that helps kids practice addition and multiplication skills through a sushi-themed game. Sushi Monster can be found on iOS, but it is not currently available on Android.

Mathway provides solutions to a wide range of math problems, from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus. It enables you to snap a picture of your math problem and Mathway will find the solution, however you must upgrade the premium version to get the step-by-step instructions on how to solve the problem. It’s a useful tool for students of all ages. Mathway is accessible on iOS and Android.

Rocket Math Online Tutor focuses on helping kids develop fast and accurate recall of basic math facts through practice drills and games. It’s ideal for elementary-aged students. Rocket Math is available on iOS and Android.

Math Kids App – Targeting ages 6-8, this Android-based app is FREE and has lots of attention grabbing exercises and games to help kids learn the foundation concepts of math. Math Kids is designed to help preschoolers, kindergarteners and 1st graders to learn to identify numbers and start training with addition and subtraction puzzles.

There are so many great resources for free! But if you find your student needs a different approach, there are also some great, low cost options to check out.

Colorado’s University PhET Simulations Project features animated illustrations that are popular for math and science students in grades K – 12. The PhET app is available for $0.99 on Android and iOS platforms, but K-12 students can access its PhET simulations online completely FREE to learn mathematical concepts like Projectile Motion, Calculus Grapher, and Arithmetic.

Wolfram Alpha is computational engine for $2.99 that answers factual queries by computing answers from externally sourced data. It’s incredibly powerful for solving advanced math problems, including calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. The app also provides step-by-step solutions and explanations for a wide range of math problems. Find it on iOS and Android.

Dragonbox Math App – Available for $4.99 for iOS and Android, this Dragon Box is a group of apps that cover numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, algebra, geometry and more, for ages 5 and up. According to DragonBox, their method “is a unique approach that uses motivation-based learning techniques to give children a deeper understanding of how and why things work.” They achieve this through helping students engage with, explore, reflect on, and apply what they’re learning and practicing.

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Educational Apps, Freebies, Math Apps, Math Games

Help with Homeschooling Special Needs Children: A Guide to PASS

August 14, 2024 Leave a Comment

Print This

In the season we’re in of preparing and deciding which free homeschooling curriculum we will use for the year, it is critical that we do not pass up those families with special needs students. We understand that every child’s learning journey is unique, and this is especially true for our children with special needs. If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent countless hours searching for the right resources to support your child’s educational growth, and of course that journey only becomes more difficult when you’re trying to find any kind curriculum that is outside the regular course of learning for most students. That’s why I’m excited to share with you an invaluable resource for special needs students: Parallel Alternative Strategies for Students (PASS). Read More

What is PASS?

PASS is a series of instructional guides designed specifically for students with special needs. These guides offer alternative strategies and materials that align with standard curricula but are tailored to meet the individual learning needs of our children. Whether your child has a learning disability, autism, ADHD, or another condition that affects how they process information, PASS can provide the tools you need to help them succeed.

Why PASS Stands Out

One of the challenges of homeschooling a child with special needs is finding materials that are both accessible and effective. Traditional textbooks and lesson plans often assume that all students learn in the same way, which we know isn’t the case. PASS acknowledges these differences and provides strategies that can be adapted to fit your child’s unique learning style.

For instance, if your child struggles with reading comprehension, PASS offers alternative methods to help them understand the material, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and simplified text. If math is a challenge, PASS provides step-by-step guides that break down complex concepts into manageable chunks. This flexibility is what makes PASS such a valuable resource for homeschooling parents.

How to Use PASS in Your Homeschool

Integrating PASS into your homeschool routine doesn’t require an overhaul of your existing curriculum. Instead, think of it as a supplement that enhances your current teaching methods. Here are a few tips on how to get started:

Assess Your Child’s Needs: Before diving into the PASS materials, take some time to evaluate where your child may need extra support. Is it in reading, writing, math, or another area? Knowing this will help you choose the most appropriate PASS resources.
Start Small: You don’t need to implement everything at once. Start with one or two strategies from the PASS guide that address your child’s immediate needs. As you see progress, you can gradually introduce more.
Be Patient and Flexible: Remember, the beauty of homeschooling is that you can adjust your approach as needed. If a particular strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to tweak it or try something different. The goal is to find what resonates best with your child.
Celebrate Successes: Every small victory is worth celebrating! Whether it’s mastering a new concept or simply showing improvement, acknowledging these successes will boost your child’s confidence and motivation.

Where to Find PASS Resources

The PASS guides are available for free through the ERIC (Education Resources Information Center) website. You can easily access them by searching for “Parallel Alternative Strategies for Students (PASS)” on the ERIC database (I provided the search string in the link above).

***And make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily encouragement in your homeschooling journey!***

Print This

Filed Under: Full Curriculum, Special Needs

Teach Your Monster to Read – FREE Learning Game!

ALL of our Resources on Getting Started Homeschooling in One Place!

Free Printable Homeschool Report Card!

Free Printable Homeschool Report Card

How to Transition from Public School to Homeschool: Tips for a Smooth Adjustment!

How to Figure Out Your Homeschooling Philosophy!

The Classical Approach

Charlotte Mason Method

Traditional or Textbook Approach

Unschooling

Online Schooling

Eclectic Method

Homeschool Philosophy Quiz

HUGE Resource for FREE Downloadable Printables for Lots of Subjects!

FREE Printable Superhero High Intensity Interval Training for Kids! (HIIT)

FREE Printable Coloring Pages for Every Subject!

Free Printable Coloring Pages

OVER TWENTY of the TOP FREE Math Apps For All Ages for Apple iOS and Android!

The Top FREE Math Apps for Apple and Android

There are so many great resources for free! But if you find your student needs a different approach, there are also some great, low cost options to check out.

Help with Homeschooling Special Needs Children: A Guide to PASS

What is PASS?

Why PASS Stands Out

How to Use PASS in Your Homeschool

Where to Find PASS Resources

Follow Us!

Recent Posts