As a single parent, I needed to find free and low-cost ways to make homeschooling work for us. That was the only way I was able to afford it. The three of us were determined to make it work though because it was something we all really wanted. The following is how we enjoyed our homeschool experience without draining the bank account. It also brought us closer together as a family.

Purchase curriculum as you need it, not months in advance. However, stock up on supplies you know the kids will be using when they are on sale. Only buy the things you know they will use!

Buy secondhand curriculum and books from used bookstores, online marketplaces such as Facebook and Ebay, thrift stores and yard sales. Check out your local library. They usually have educational books, resources and free activities. You can also find free textbooks online through open sources. There is no need to spend a lot of money on books.

Create your own homeschool curriculum. We used very few textbooks. Just about everything the kids did was created by me – from worksheets, crafts and planners. I am currently adding what we used in our homeschool to the website.

You don’t need a book for every subject. Get creative with hands on learning through activities and play time. Spend some time learning outside. The world we live in has endless possibilities!

For field trips and activities, use free days at your local community festivals and events. Go to parks, playgrounds, nature and state parks. Museums and zoos usually have free or discounted days. Some factories and businesses have free tours that can be very educational. The National Weather Center here in our state has a free educational program.

Join a free homeschool co-op and homeschool groups. You will find like-minded people who know about the homeschool journey you are on. Another great benefit of these groups is the group field trips and the discounts. These groups are also great for socialization.

Use the services you are probably already paying for. You would be surprised at how many of those services have educational resources. Amazon Prime and Netflix both have educational documentaries. Amazon Prime has a discount program for anyone who receives SNAP benefits. The YMCA would be a good place for physical education. They also provide discounts and free programs to low-income families.

Homeschooling on a limited budget is possible today. There are so many resources available and ways to keep the cost down. Homeschooling does not have to be expensive!