4 Tips to Homeschool Affordably

How can I afford homeschooling? This question can plague homeschooling parents or those interested in homeschooling. Even though prices are high in this economy, not all is lost. These days, you can homeschool for little to no cost. You can homeschool affordably. It’s not impossible. 

Let’s dive into some research and knowledge on how to homeschool inexpensively

• Use printables and library resources. 
• Check out ESA programs.
• Participate in curriculum trades.
• Cut back as needed.

How to Homeschool on a Budget

First, let’s look at some research behind homeschooling finances. According to HSLDA, “Four consecutive surveys by the USCB in the spring of 2021 indicated that an average of about 20 percent of US homeschool households had yearly incomes of less than $25,000.” NHERI states that families spend around $600 per student each year. 

Many parents worry about affording homeschooling. You may have to work and homeschool your child. That’s a lot to juggle when dealing with financial stress. However, you can homeschool on a budget. This will alleviate stress and give you more control over your homeschooling journey.

These two sources prove homeschooling isn’t impossible. You can find free homeschooling resources. Depending on your state, you may have to pay for legal requirements, such as an evaluation. However, you can access free curricula online, using YouTube, Easy Peasy, or Khan Academy. Use Pinterest to find printables. 

You can also access your local library for many options. At your local library, you can check out books, DVDs, and much more. Some libraries even offer museum passes and educational opportunities. That way, your child can learn at the library or away from it (but still sponsored by the library). 

Next, look at the ESA programs in your state. For instance, Florida has Step-Up. With an ESA account, you can use financial support to homeschool your child. An ESA is “A state-funded Education Savings Account [that] gives families access to public funds, money that would have gone to a traditional school district” (Outschool). You can use this money to fulfill academic costs. This is a great way to homeschool your child and still utilize curricula and resources. Check if your state offers ESA programs since not all states do. 

Continuing, participate in curriculum trades. This is a free way to try different curricula without spending any money. Find other homeschooling parents on Facebook to trade with. Or you can ask your homeschool friends to trade with you. 

As we have mentioned, homeschooling is a sacrifice, so you may need to cut back in certain areas. It may mean less shopping or coffee splurges. Sacrifice is what turns an ordinary homeschool parent into an extraordinary one. Discover ways to save money and tuck it away for a rainy-day homeschool emergency. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can homeschool affordably. It is possible. You can make homeschooling work with your budget, not the other way around. You can find affordable resources and customize your curriculum to fit your budget. Take a deep breath and let go of that financial stress. You don’t have to hold onto that stress any longer. You don’t have to hold back from homeschooling because of financial reasons. 

Homeschooling can happen on a budget. Families do it every day. Your family can be next. 

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- NxtEra

Written by Bethany (@thebookwormgirl_bethany)

Sources: New Research Shows Homeschool Growth across All Race, Income Categories 

Fast Facts on Homeschooling | National Home Education Research Institute 

Do parents get paid to homeschool? ESA and tax credit