“To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.” - Theodore Roosevelt

Introduction

Are you struggling to find the perfect homeschool curriculum for teaching history with a Christian focus?

As a homeschooling parent who has tried and tested various options, you can trust that I understand the importance of finding the right resources to engage your children in their history studies. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve carefully reviewed and selected some of the best homeschool curriculum options, specifically tailored to Christian history education.

• Mystery of History

• Story of the World

• Notgrass

• Beautiful Feet Books

Read on to discover these remarkable homeschool curriculum options and make an informed decision for your family’s history studies.

Features & Product Aspects to Look For in Homeschool Curriculum

When searching for the perfect homeschool curriculum for history studies with a Christian focus, it’s essential to consider certain features and product aspects. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Engaging Content: Look for curriculum that presents historical information in an engaging and captivating manner, making it enjoyable for both you and your children.

• Christian Values Integration: Find curriculum that seamlessly integrates Christian values, helping your children connect their faith with historical lessons.

• Adaptability for Different Learning Styles: Consider curriculum that offers flexibility to accommodate different learning styles, ensuring each child can grasp and retain the information effectively.

• Ease of Use: Opt for curriculum that is user-friendly, with clear instructions and organized materials to simplify the teaching process.

Recommended Homeschool Curriculum Roundup:

Mystery of History:

Mystery of History is one of our family’s personal favorites when it comes to a Christian homeschool curriculum for history. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging study of history from a Christian perspective. It offers a multi-age approach that enables parents to teach multiple children at different grade levels simultaneously, making it a flexible choice for homeschooling families.

One of the standout features of Mystery of History is its integration of Christian values throughout the curriculum. Each lesson incorporates biblical principles and references to help students understand the historical events in a meaningful and faith-based context.

The content of Mystery of History is carefully curated to ensure a well-rounded study of world history. It covers major historical events, figures, and civilizations, offering a chronological exploration that spans from Creation to modern times. The curriculum is filled with engaging stories, captivating narratives, and thought-provoking activities to keep students interested and involved in their history studies.

As a homeschooling parent, I appreciate the adaptability of Mystery of History to different learning styles. The curriculum provides various options for auditory, visual, and hands-on learners, making it easier to cater to each child’s unique strengths and preferences.

One practical tip for using Mystery of History is to take advantage of the additional resources available on their website. They offer supplemental materials, such as printable maps, timeline figures, and activity suggestions, which enhance the learning experience and allow for a more immersive study of history.

While Mystery of History has many strengths, it’s important to mention that some families may find the amount of content overwhelming. However, with proper planning and pacing, it is definitely manageable. Additionally, the curriculum is predominantly focused on Western history, so if you are looking for a more comprehensive global perspective, you might consider supplementing it with additional resources.

Overall, Mystery of History is an excellent choice for families seeking a Christian homeschool curriculum for history that is engaging, flexible, and grounded in biblical values. It has been a cherished resource in our homeschool journey, and I highly recommend it to others seeking a solid foundation in Christian history education.

Story of the World:

When it comes to Christian homeschool curriculum options, Story of the World has been a beloved choice in our family’s history studies. This curriculum offers a captivating and comprehensive exploration of world history, making it an excellent resource for students of all ages.

What sets Story of the World apart is its engaging storytelling approach. The curriculum presents history as a narrative, bringing events and characters to life through fascinating stories and vivid descriptions. This storytelling technique keeps students hooked and eager to learn more about the world’s past.

Story of the World covers history in four volumes, each focusing on a different time period. This segmented approach allows for a deeper dive into each era, providing a more thorough understanding of the historical context. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing parents to adapt it to their specific needs and preferences.

One practical tip for using Story of the World is to take advantage of the accompanying activity book. It offers additional resources, including map exercises, coloring pages, and hands-on projects, which complement the lessons and make the learning experience more interactive and enjoyable.

As a Christian homeschool curriculum, Story of the World integrates biblical principles and values throughout the material. It presents history from a Christian perspective, highlighting the impact of Christianity on different civilizations and illustrating biblical truths within historical events.

While Story of the World has been highly popular among homeschooling families, it’s worth noting that some parents may find the curriculum’s narrative-heavy style less suitable for older or more advanced students. However, with additional supplementary resources and discussions, it can still provide a solid foundation in world history for these students as well.

Overall, Story of the World is an engaging and comprehensive Christian homeschool curriculum choice for history studies. Its narrative approach, integration of Christian values, and flexibility make it an excellent resource for families seeking an enthusiastic and interactive exploration of the world’s past.

Notgrass:

Notgrass is a fantastic option for Christian homeschool curriculum in the realm of history. This comprehensive program offers a well-rounded study of American history, focusing on the principles and values that have shaped our nation.

One of the standout features of Notgrass is its unique approach to history education. It combines engaging textbooks, primary source documents, literature selections, and hands-on activities to provide a holistic learning experience. This multi-faceted approach appeals to various learning styles and keeps students actively engaged in their studies.

Notgrass covers American history in three volumes: Exploring America, From Adam to Us, and America the Beautiful. Each volume delves deep into different periods of American history, from the discovery of America to the present day. The curriculum presents historical events in a chronological and coherent manner, making it easier for students to understand the cause-and-effect relationships that have shaped our nation.

One practical tip for using Notgrass is to leverage the additional resources available on their website. They offer supplemental materials, such as timelines, literature guides, and review activities, which enhance the learning experience and provide extra support for both parents and students.

Notgrass strives to integrate Christian values throughout its curriculum. The materials approach history from a biblical worldview, highlighting the role of faith in the lives of influential figures and in the development of our nation. The curriculum encourages character development and promotes a deep understanding of how God has worked throughout American history.

It’s important to note that Notgrass is primarily focused on American history; therefore, it may not be the most suitable choice for families seeking a more comprehensive global history curriculum. However, for those looking to dive deeply into the rich tapestry of American history, Notgrass offers a comprehensive and engaging approach.

Overall, Notgrass is an excellent choice for families desiring a Christian homeschool curriculum that provides a comprehensive study of American history. With its multifaceted approach, integration of Christian values, and plentiful supplemental resources, Notgrass will undoubtedly enrich the educational journey of any student learning about the founding and development of our great nation.

Beautiful Feet Books:

Beautiful Feet Books is a wonderful choice for a Christian homeschool curriculum that emphasizes literature and a living books approach to history. This curriculum provides a unique and enriching experience, as it combines quality literature selections with historical context and analysis.

One of the standout features of Beautiful Feet Books is its emphasis on using living books. Living books are engaging and well-written books that bring history to life. By incorporating these books into the curriculum, Beautiful Feet Books creates a more immersive and memorable learning experience for students.

Beautiful Feet Books offers a variety of literature packs that cover different eras and topics in history. Each literature pack includes a selection of books carefully chosen to provide a comprehensive understanding of the time period being studied. The curriculum encourages students to delve into the lives of historical figures and experience history through the eyes of those who lived it.

One practical tip for using Beautiful Feet Books is to take advantage of the discussion questions and activities provided in the curriculum. These resources help facilitate meaningful conversations and reflections about the literature and the historical context, deepening students’ understanding of the subject matter.

Beautiful Feet Books also integrates Christian values into its curriculum. The literature selections often include stories that exemplify biblical principles and highlight the role of faith in historical events and the lives of historical figures. This biblical worldview adds depth and significance to the study of history.

While Beautiful Feet Books is highly regarded for its literature-based approach, it’s important to note that it may require additional supplementation to cover all aspects of history comprehensively. Some families may choose to supplement the curriculum with additional resources, such as textbooks or online materials, to ensure a well-rounded study.

Overall, Beautiful Feet Books offers a unique and literature-focused approach to Christian homeschool history curriculum. With its emphasis on living books, integration of Christian values, and thoughtfully curated literature packs, Beautiful Feet Books provides an engaging and enriching exploration of history that will inspire a love for learning in students of all ages

Buying Guide

Now that we’ve explored some of our favorite homeschool curriculum options for Christian history studies, it’s time to discuss what parents should consider when purchasing a curriculum. Choosing the right curriculum for your family’s unique needs is crucial for a successful homeschooling experience. Here are some essential tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Compatibility with Personal Teaching Style

Every parent has their own teaching style, and it’s important to find a homeschool curriculum that aligns with your approach. Consider whether you prefer a more structured or relaxed teaching method. Some curricula provide detailed lesson plans and schedules, while others offer more flexibility for customization. Think about how you like to structure your lessons, and choose a curriculum that complements your teaching style.

For example, if you prefer a more hands-on and interactive approach, you might lean towards a curriculum like Hands of a Child, which offers lapbooks and project-based activities. On the other hand, if you prefer a textbook-style curriculum with clear explanations and exercises, you might consider BJU Press Homeschool.

2. Budget Considerations

Let’s face it, budget is always a consideration when choosing a homeschool curriculum. It’s essential to find a curriculum that aligns with your financial situation. There are a variety of options available at different price points, so it’s possible to find quality curriculum within any budget.

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of free or low-cost resources available online. Websites like Khan Academy and Ambleside Online offer free homeschool curriculum options for various subjects, including history.

3. Support Materials Availability

Consider whether the curriculum you’re considering provides additional support materials. These can include teacher guides, answer keys, activity books, or online resources. Having access to support materials can make it easier for you as the homeschooling parent to guide your child’s learning and provide additional resources when needed.

For example, some curricula like Sonlight offer comprehensive instructor’s guides that lay out the entire curriculum and provide additional book recommendations and discussion questions. These guides can be a valuable tool for homeschooling parents.

4. Flexibility in Adapting to Different Grades

Consider whether the curriculum you are interested in can be easily adapted to suit different grade levels. This is particularly important if you have children in multiple grade levels or if you plan to use the curriculum for multiple years.

Some curricula, such as Homeschool in the Woods, offer multi-level options that allow you to teach multiple children or adapt the curriculum for different grade levels. This flexibility can save you time and money in the long run.

Remember, the perfect curriculum is different for every family, so take the time to consider your family’s unique needs and preferences when making your decision. Don’t hesitate to reach out to other homeschooling parents for recommendations and advice.

Next up, we’ll explore some alternative options for homeschool history curriculum for those who may not resonate with the choices we’ve mentioned so far. Stay tuned!

Alternative Options

If the homeschool curriculum options we’ve mentioned so far don’t resonate with you, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternative choices available that may better suit your needs. Here are a couple of alternative history homeschool curriculum options to consider:

1. Veritas Press

Veritas Press offers a comprehensive history curriculum rooted in a Christian worldview. Their curriculum, known as “Veritas History,” takes a chronological approach to history, allowing students to explore the past from a biblical perspective.

What sets Veritas Press apart is its emphasis on using primary source documents and great books. The curriculum incorporates classic literature and original historical documents, engaging students in a deeper understanding of history. This approach encourages critical thinking and analysis skills.

One of the standout features of Veritas History is its interactive online component, called the Veritas Press Self-Paced History courses. These courses provide video instruction, interactive quizzes, and other multimedia resources to enhance the learning experience.

However, it’s important to note that Veritas Press is more structured and may not appeal to those seeking a more relaxed or hands-on approach to history education.

2. Acellus

Acellus is an online learning platform that offers a homeschool curriculum for various subjects, including history. Their history curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of world history and American history, integrating Christian principles throughout the lessons.

What makes Acellus unique is its adaptive learning technology. The platform uses artificial intelligence to tailor the curriculum to each student’s individual needs and learning pace. This personalized approach ensures that students receive instruction and assignments at their appropriate level of understanding.

Acellus also offers interactive video lessons, virtual tours, and graphic simulations to bring history to life. The platform provides assessments and progress tracking to help parents monitor their child’s learning journey effectively.

However, since Acellus is an online platform, it may not be suitable for families who prefer a more offline and tactile learning experience.

These are just two alternative options among many to explore. Remember to consider your teaching style, your child’s learning preferences, and your overall homeschooling goals when selecting a curriculum.

Next, we’ll wrap up our blog post by summarizing the article and offering some final thoughts. Stay tuned!

Conclusion

Take a look at these highly recommended homeschool curriculum options and find the perfect fit for your family’s history studies:

• Mystery of History

• Story of the World

• Notgrass

• Beautiful Feet Books

Through our personal experiences and thorough reviews, we have learned a great deal about homeschool curriculum options for Christian history studies. Here are some key takeaways:

• Engaging content is a crucial aspect to look for in a homeschool curriculum, as it keeps children excited about learning history.

• Integrating Christian values into the curriculum helps instill character development and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

• Adaptability for different learning styles ensures that each child receives a personalized and effective learning experience.

• Choosing a curriculum that is easy to use and implement reduces stress and enables parents to focus more on teaching and guiding their children.

Remember, these curriculum recommendations are based on our personal favorites, but every family has unique needs and preferences. As you delve into your search for the perfect homeschool curriculum, take the time to consider what aligns best with your teaching style, budget constraints, and the resources available to you.

While we have highlighted some fantastic options, there are also alternative choices worth exploring. Keep your options open and consider alternatives such as Veritas Press and Acellus to ensure you find the best fit for your family’s history studies.

Thank you for joining us on this homeschool curriculum roundup journey! We hope you have gained valuable insights to aid you in choosing the ideal curriculum for your children’s history education. Remember, history is not just a collection of dates and facts—it is a story waiting to unfold!

Homeschool Curriculum Roundup FAQs

What are some key features to consider when selecting a homeschool curriculum for history studies?

When choosing a homeschool curriculum for history, there are several key features to consider. Look for engaging content that captures your child’s interest and makes learning history enjoyable. Additionally, prioritize curricula that integrate Christian values, providing a foundation of faith alongside historical knowledge. Adaptability for different learning styles is important to ensure that each child can learn effectively. Lastly, consider the ease of use and implementation of the curriculum, as this can greatly impact your teaching experience.

Why is it important to integrate Christian values into a history curriculum?

Integrating Christian values in a history curriculum helps children develop a well-rounded understanding of the subject. It provides opportunities to explore how history aligns with biblical teachings and helps children see how their faith is not isolated from the world but is intertwined with the events and narratives of history. By learning history through a Christian lens, children gain a deeper understanding of the impact of faith on individuals, civilizations, and society as a whole.

How can I choose a curriculum that adapts to different learning styles?

When selecting a homeschool curriculum for history studies, it is essential to consider the different learning styles of your children. Look for curricula that offer a variety of teaching methods, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and auditory resources. This enables children with different learning styles to engage with the material in their preferred way, making the learning experience more effective and enjoyable. Some curricula may also provide options for customization or additional resources to accommodate diverse learning needs.

What should I take into account when considering my personal teaching style?

When choosing a homeschool curriculum for history, it is important to consider your personal teaching style. Reflect on your preferred teaching methods, whether you enjoy a structured approach or prefer a more flexible, child-led learning environment. Consider your strengths as an educator and what type of curriculum will complement and align with your teaching style. This ensures that you feel confident and comfortable in delivering the curriculum content, creating an optimal learning experience for both you and your children.

How do I gauge if a curriculum is within my budget?

When assessing the affordability of a homeschool curriculum for history, it is crucial to consider your budget and the resources available to you. Take into account the cost of the curriculum itself, any additional materials or resources required, and potential hidden expenses. Research thoroughly, and compare different curriculum options to find the one that fits within your budget without compromising the quality of education you desire for your children. You may also explore used curriculum markets or look for educational discounts or bundles to make the curriculum more affordable.

What should I do if none of the recommended curricula resonate with me?

If none of the recommended curricula in this roundup align with your preferences, don’t worry! There are numerous homeschool curriculum options available, and the best choice for your family may be different from what works for others. Consider exploring other alternatives, such as Veritas Press and Acellus, which may better suit your unique needs, teaching style, or learning goals. Remember, finding the right curriculum is all about finding the best fit for your family and ensuring a positive and rewarding homeschooling experience.

How often should I update our history curriculum?

The frequency of updating your history curriculum depends on various factors, including your children’s grade levels, your personal preferences, and any changes in educational standards or historical discoveries. It is generally recommended to review and update your curriculum every few years to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and engaging. Stay informed about new curriculum options and developments in the homeschooling community to make informed decisions on when and how to update your history curriculum.