15 Best Preschool Homeschool Curriculum: Picks for Parents (2024)

All parents have the desire to provide their children with the best possible start in life, encompassing their education. An article by Brookings highlights that over 1.2 million students are currently being homeschooled, surpassing the enrollment numbers of the entire New York City public school system. If you’ve decided to homeschool your preschooler, you may be contemplating where to begin. Selecting the appropriate preschool homeschool curriculum becomes paramount in ensuring your child’s academic achievements and holistic growth.

With numerous options available, deciding which one to choose can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled an overview of the best preschool homeschool programs to help you choose wisely. From Montessori-inspired programs to traditional approaches, these curriculums have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, age-appropriate content, and ease of use for parents. So, let’s dive in and explore what preschoolers typically learn and how these curriculums can help your child achieve their developmental milestones.

Related Reading: How to Choose a Homeschooling Curriculum: 5 Simple Ways

6 Things Preschoolers Learn

Preschool is the best time for exploration, discovery, and tremendous growth. It’s a period when young children eagerly absorb knowledge like little sponges, developing essential skills that lay the foundation for their future learning and success. The main essential elements are listed below, which will cover what kids will learn and discover in the pre K curriculum homeschool.

1. The Wonder of Language: Preschoolers dive into the magical world of language as they learn new words, expand their vocabulary, and develop the foundations of reading and writing. They discover the joy of communication and storytelling through interactive activities, storytelling, and songs.

2. Numbers and Shapes Come Alive: Preschool is the perfect time for little ones to explore the world of numbers and shapes. They learn to recognize and count numbers, understand basic mathematical concepts, and survey forms through hands-on activities, puzzles, and games.

3. The Colors of Creativity: Preschool-aged children go on a fun adventure to learn about different colors. They discover many colorful things, mix colors to create new ones, and use art to express their feelings.

4. Social Skills Take Center Stage: Preschool is a social playground where children learn to interact with their peers and develop important social skills. They know about sharing, taking turns, cooperating, and problem-solving through group activities, team games, and collaborative projects. Building friendships and navigating social situations become valuable lessons.

5. Gross and Fine Motor Skills: The development of preschoolers’ gross and fine motor skills receive a significant boost through engaging in physical activities. These exercises encompass various movements, such as running, hopping, skipping, and jumping, effectively contributing to their coordination, balance, and strength.

6. Exploring the World Around Them: Preschoolers start exploring and learning more about the world around them. They learn about nature, animals, seasons, and different cultures. They use fun and exciting things like books, games, and trips to help them understand and discover new things.

Related Reading: Easy Activities for Preschoolers [With Tutorials]

What Is Taught in Preschool?

Preschool education is a critical aspect of a child’s early development, providing a solid foundation for future learning and fostering the development of essential skills. A research article published by NHERI found positive outcomes from the study of preschool homeschooling in academic achievement, social growth, and success in adulthood. The following are the critical areas of what is typically taught in preschool homeschool curriculum and how homeschooling can be a viable option for preschool education.

Preschool education focuses on nurturing the development of young children, typically aged 3 to 5 years old. It aids in developing fundamental abilities and knowledge in youngsters and lays the groundwork for future learning. The following is often included in the preschool curriculum:

• Social and Emotional Development: Enhancing awareness, self-control, and social skills.
• Literacy and Language: introduction to vocabulary, sounds, letters, and fundamental reading abilities.
• Math Concepts: Counting, number recognition, basic addition and subtraction, shapes, and patterns.
• Science Exploration: Hands-on activities to introduce basic scientific concepts and encourage curiosity.
• Fine and Gross Motor Skills: Developing coordination, control, and physical abilities through play and movement.
• Art and Creativity: Encouraging self-expression, imagination, and exploration of different art mediums.
• Music and Movement: Engaging in rhythmic activities, songs, and dance to enhance coordination and expression.
• Social Studies: Introducing basic concepts about the world, community, and cultural diversity.

Preschool also emphasizes play-based learning, fostering curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Preschool teachers build a nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages active exploration and discovery. Preschool education promotes independence, cooperation, and respect for others.

Related Reading: Things to Taught to Kids in Preschool

15 Best Preschool Homeschool Curriculum Resources

When choosing the best homeschool preschool curriculum, several options are available that cater to the unique needs of young learners. Here are 15 top preschool homeschool programs, highlighting their key features, grade levels, benefits, unique selling points (USP), and approximate costs.

1. SplashLearn

SplashLearn is a fun online math and ELA program that offers a comprehensive curriculum for children, featuring interactive games, engaging worksheets, and live classes. With its wide coverage of concepts and skills, SplashLearn fosters a strong foundation in numeracy, reading and writing while adapting to the unique needs and learning preferences of each student.

SplashLearn’s robust algorithm is at the core of its success, intelligently analyzing each student’s performance data to provide personalized recommendations and adaptive challenges. This ensures that children are continually challenged at the right level, promoting continuous improvement and a deeper understanding of the subjects. With its algorithm, SplashLearn creates a dynamic and tailored learning experience that maximizes each child’s potential and fosters a love for learning.

• Grades: Pre-K to 5th grade.
• Cost: Free to sign up, subscriptions available at $7.99 to $11.99 per month

2. ABCmouse

ABCmouse presents a well-rounded online curriculum for children, encompassing interactive lessons in reading, math, science, and art. With a focus on engagement and enjoyment, learning becomes a delightful experience. What sets ABCmouse apart is its adaptive technology, which customizes the curriculum to match each child’s unique learning level.

• Grades: Pre-K to 2nd grade.
• Cost: $12.99 per month

3. Time4Learning

Time4Learning offers a comprehensive online curriculum designed for children, encompassing interactive language arts, math, science, and social studies lessons. With a flexible, self-paced structure, the curriculum can be easily tailored to accommodate individual learning styles. One of the unique selling points of Time4Learning is its automated grading and recordkeeping system, streamlining the educational experience for both students and parents.

• Grades: Preschool to 12th grade.
• Cost: Starting at $19.95 per month

4. Montessori Preschool

Montessori Preschool offers a play-based curriculum inspired by the Montessori method. It focuses on hands-on activities and promotes independent learning. The curriculum covers practical life skills, sensory experiences, and language development. The USP of Montessori Preschool emphasizes fostering independence and critical thinking.

• Grades: For Preschool kids.
• Cost: Starting at $20/month.

5. Sonlight Preschool

Sonlight provides a literature-based curriculum for preschoolers. It includes read-aloud books, hands-on activities, and gentle introductions to math and language arts. The curriculum promotes a love for reading and exploration. The USP of Sonlight is its extensive library of high-quality books.

• Grades: For Preschool kids.
• Cost: Cost varies depending on the package, but it typically costs around $249.99

6. Oak Meadow

Oak Meadow presents a Waldorf-inspired education that places emphasis on artistic expression, nature-based learning, and engaging hands-on activities. With a curriculum that fosters creativity, imagination, and holistic development, Oak Meadow’s unique selling point lies in seamlessly integrating arts and nature across all subjects.

• Grades: Preschool to 12th grade.
• Cost: Ranges from $150 to $300 per grade level.

7. The Good and the Beautiful

The Good and the Beautiful offers a faith-based, literature-rich curriculum that encompasses language arts, math, science, and social studies. It goes beyond academic subjects by integrating character development and instilling high moral values. What sets The Good and the Beautiful apart is its unique inclusion of exquisite art and captivating literature.

• Grades: Preschool to 8th grade.
• Cost: Ranges from $20 to $50 per level.

8. Blossom and Root

Immerse your child in a nature-inspired, hands-on learning experience with Blossom and Root, a curriculum that seamlessly integrates subjects like nature studies, art, literature, and math. By encouraging exploration, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the natural world, this unique curriculum nurtures a love for learning. Blossom and Root’s key differentiator lies in its focus on nature-based education, fostering creativity and holistic development.

• Grades: Preschool to 2nd grade.
• Cost: Starting at $39

9. Timberdoodle

Timberdoodle provides a carefully curated curriculum kit. It features interactive learning tools, games that promote critical thinking, and fun activities. The curriculum includes a variety of topics, including STEM, logic, and the arts. Timberdoodle’s pre-packaged kits, which save time for busy parents, are its USP.

• Grades: Preschool to 12th grade.
• Cost: Depending on the grade level and kit, prices start at $400.

10. The Homegrown Preschooler

The Homegrown Preschooler offers a play-based curriculum. It emphasizes sensory exploration, active learning, and the development of social skills. Activities in math, science, music, and the arts are all part of the curriculum. The Homegrown Preschooler’s USP is its focus on play-based, experiential learning.

• Grades: For preschool kids.
• Cost: Starting at $29.95

11. Little Acorns Preschool

Little Acorns Preschool provides a thorough, religious curriculum. It covers Bible stories, math, science, handwriting, and phonics. The curriculum promotes practical applications and critical thinking abilities. Little Acorns Preschool’s unique selling point is its faith-based approach to early education.

• Grades: For preschool kids
• Cost: Starting at $129.99

12. Explode the Code

Discover the power of Explode the Code, a dynamic phonics-based curriculum that ignites robust reading skills through captivating exercises and interactive activities. Encompassing essential components like phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension, this curriculum ensures a comprehensive learning experience. What sets Explode the Code apart is its unique and systematic approach to phonics instruction, making it an unparalleled resource for building a strong foundation in reading.

• Grades: Preschool to 4th grade.
• Cost: Cost varies depending on the level, starting from $7.95.

13. Learn and Grow

Learn and Grow is a practical preschool curriculum that encourages discovery, creativity, and the development of early literacy skills. Activities in language arts, math, science, and the arts are covered. Play-based aspects are included in the curriculum, which supports child-led learning. Learn and Grow’s focus on experiential learning makes it unique.

• Grades: For Preschool kids.
• Cost: Starting at $19.95/month

14. Mother Goose Time

Mother Goose Time provides a play-based, thematic curriculum. It puts an emphasis on arithmetic, science, literacy, and fine motor abilities as well as social and emotional growth. Lesson plans, resources, and music are all included in the curriculum. The unique selling point of Mother Goose Time is its themed approach that involves kids in play and exploration.

• Grades: For Preschool kids.
• Cost: Starting at $70/month

15. Before Five in a Row

Before Five in a Row presents a literature-based curriculum that revolves around cherished children’s books. Through its integration of language arts, math, science, and art activities, the curriculum encourages reading comprehension, fosters creativity, and facilitates hands-on exploration. The unique selling point of Before Five in a Row lies in its dedicated focus on beloved children’s literature, making learning an enchanting and immersive experience.

• Grades: For Preschool kids
• Cost: Starting at $35

Related Reading: Helpful Homeschooling Resources for Parents

The Ideal Preschool Homeschool Curriculum!

Choosing the right preschool homeschool curriculum is crucial for setting a strong educational foundation for your child. The options discussed above offer diverse approaches, from play-based learning to structured programs, catering to different learning styles and preferences. Each curriculum brings unique features, benefits, and strengths, ensuring an engaging and effective learning experience for your preschooler.

As parents and teachers, we must provide our children with the best possible start in their educational journey. Explore these best preschool homeschool programs, considering the features, benefits, and costs. Select the curriculum that aligns with your child’s needs and interests, and embark on an exciting homeschooling adventure together. Your active involvement and commitment to their education will significantly impact their future success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)