“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” - Fred Rogers

Introduction

Are you struggling to find the best homeschool supplies to create a smooth and engaging learning experience for your children at home?

If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, I’ll be sharing my favorite homeschooling supplies that have proven invaluable in my own journey as a homeschooling mom. From printers and paper types to writing utensils, art supplies, and organizational tools, we’ll explore a range of must-have items. Plus, I’ll provide practical tips and anecdotes to help you make informed decisions for your homeschooling setup.

• Discover the top printers and paper types for efficient printing and quality output.

• Unleash your child’s creativity with the best writing utensils and art supplies.

• Get organized with a variety of tools, from dividers to clipboards and more.

• Create an inspiring learning environment with display and atmosphere-enhancing supplies.

Ready to take your homeschooling to the next level? Read on and find the perfect homeschool supplies to enrich your child’s education!

Printers and Paper Types

Having a reliable printer is essential for a smooth homeschooling experience. Here are the top printers and paper types to consider (make sure to select one that has “Auto 2-sided Printing”):

• Epson EcoTank 2850: This printer is known for its efficiency and cost-saving features. With its large ink tanks, you can print thousands of pages before needing to refill.

• Epson M3170: If you’re looking for a printer with all-in-one functionality, the M3170 is a great choice. It not only prints in monochrome (no color) but also scans and copies, making it versatile for various homeschooling needs.

• When it comes to paper types, consider using bright white printer paper for crisp text and vibrant colors. For art projects or science experiments, opt for heavier weight paper to handle a variety of mediums. When we print curriculum ebooks/PDFs for our kids, the lightest weight paper we use is 28 lb white printer paper (aim for $0.02/Count or less).

Investing in the right printer and paper types will ensure you can easily print worksheets, lesson plans, and educational resources without any hassle.

Writing Utensils and Art Supplies

When it comes to homeschooling, having the right writing utensils is essential to help your children develop their handwriting skills and express themselves creatively. Let’s dive into some of our favorite writing utensils and art supplies that have made a significant difference in our homeschooling journey.

1. Dixon Ticonderoga Pencils

If you ask any homeschooling parent for their go-to pencil recommendation, chances are they will mention the Dixon Ticonderoga pencils. These pencils have been a staple in our homeschool for years, and for a good reason.

Firstly, they have a smooth graphite core that glides effortlessly across the paper, making writing a breeze for kids of all ages. The quality of these pencils is outstanding, and their strong, durable lead ensures that they last longer than other brands.

Secondly, the Dixon Ticonderoga pencils are comfortable to hold, thanks to their smooth, soft, and latex-free erasers. This is particularly important for younger children who are still developing their motor skills. Think outside of the box and opt for their triangular pencils (for youngest users) or their assorted color box for fun.

2. Erasable Pens

Now, let’s talk about another game-changer for homeschooling: erasable pens, specifically Pilot FriXion erasable pens. These pens have revolutionized the way my children approach their writing assignments.

Erasable pens give children the confidence to make mistakes without fear of ruining their work. They allow for easy correction and neatness without the hassle of using erasers. My kids love how smooth and vibrant the ink is, which makes their writing stand out on the page. I also use them in my Teacher Planner for easy erasing without smudges!

3. Microns and Highlighters

When it comes to exploring the world of art and creativity, Micron pens are a must-have. These fine-line pens come in various tip sizes, allowing your kids to create intricate details in their drawings or illustrations. My children love experimenting with different line weights and creating stunning artwork using these pens.

Additionally, Pilot FriXion Erasable Highlighters play an essential role in our homeschooling routine. They help us focus on key information while reading and studying. Whether it’s highlighting important passages in a textbook or marking important dates on a calendar, highlighters keep our homeschooling materials organized and visually appealing. The erasable feature eases my mind in case incorrect words or sentences were erroneously highlighted.

4. Art Supplies

Incorporating art into our homeschooling curriculum has been incredibly beneficial for my children’s creativity and self-expression. Here are a few art supplies that have added more color and imagination to our homeschooling days:

1. Sketchpad: Investing in a high-quality sketchpad allows my children to doodle, sketch, and practice their drawing skills. It’s their personal space to bring their imagination to life on paper. Note that I match the type of sketchpad to the type of medium (tool) my children are using. For example:

   • We use a watercolor pad for watercolor paints

   • We use a charcoal sketchpad for charcoal pencils or colored pencils

   • We use bleedproof marker paper for coloring with markers

2. Watercolor Paints: Watercolor paints are a fantastic way to introduce vibrant colors and experiment with different techniques. My kids often explore nature-inspired themes or create imaginative scenes using watercolors.

These writing utensils and art supplies have truly enhanced our homeschooling experience. They enable my children to express themselves, explore their creativity, and make their learning journey more engaging and enjoyable.

Organizational Tools

Now that we’ve covered printers, paper types, writing utensils, and art supplies, let’s talk about the backbone of an efficient homeschooling setup: organizational tools. These tools help keep everything in order and ensure a smooth day-to-day learning experience for both you and your children.

One essential organizational tool is dividers. Whether you’re using a binder or a filing system, dividers can be used to separate different subjects or categories, making it easier to locate and retrieve materials quickly. For organizing weeks of homeschool assignments, we highly recommend a rolling file cabinet with hanging file folders or extra capacity hanging file folders.

Sheet protectors are another must-have. Not only do they prevent important papers from getting torn or damaged, but they also allow you to reuse materials like worksheets or reference sheets multiple times. They’re perfect for subjects that require repetitive practice or periodic review.

Folders are great for keeping loose papers and handouts organized. Assign each subject its own folder, or use different colors for each child to make it visually appealing and easy to spot. You can also use clipboards for a portable workspace, especially if you prefer to work in different areas of your home or outdoors.

If you have a lot of homeschool supplies or materials, consider investing in a 3-tier rolling cart with multiple compartments (which color will you choose?!). This way, you can easily transport everything you need from one location to another without having to make multiple trips. Carts are especially handy if you have limited storage space.

Baskets and jars are excellent for storing smaller items like art supplies, manipulatives, or flashcards. They keep everything neatly contained and easily accessible. Plus, they add a touch of charm to your homeschooling space.

For those who love to tinker or enjoy hands-on science experiments, a parts organizer with adjustable compartments is a must. You can sort and store various materials and tools for all your exciting projects.

Now, here are a few practical tips on how to effectively utilize these organizational tools:

• Label everything! Clear labels will save you time and ensure that everything goes back to its designated place.

• Regularly declutter and reorganize. As your homeschooling journey progresses, you might find that some materials are no longer relevant or needed. Keeping your supplies streamlined and organized will make your life much easier.

• Involve your children in the organization process. Teach them how to put things back in their proper places, and encourage them to tidy up after each lesson or activity. It helps teach responsibility and also saves you from constantly searching for misplaced items.

Remember, an organized space leads to an organized mind. By implementing these organizational tools and following the above tips, you’ll create an environment that promotes focus, productivity, and enjoyment in your homeschooling journey.

Display and Atmosphere

Creating a visually appealing and inspiring homeschooling environment can greatly enhance your children’s learning experience. Here are some items that can help you transform your homeschooling space into a place of wonder and curiosity.

Glass domes are not only beautiful decor pieces but can also be used to display special items or collections. Whether it’s a small preserved insect, a seashell, or a plant cutting, placing it under a glass dome creates a focal point that sparks conversations and curiosity.

A wall grid with clips is a versatile addition to any homeschooling space. You can use it to display artwork, showcase important notes or reminders, or even hang educational posters. The clips make it easy to switch out materials regularly and keep your space dynamic.

Tabletop easels are perfect for creating a mini art studio. Your children can use them for drawing, painting, or practicing handwriting. Plus, these easels are portable, so you can move them around as needed.

Small whiteboards are excellent tools for interactive learning. They allow your children to write, draw, and solve problems collaboratively. They’re also great for practicing spelling words, math equations, or language concepts.

If you’re short on wall space or prefer a more streamlined look, magnetic poster frames are a fantastic alternative. These frames make it easy to display educational posters or charts without the need for tape or pins. Just slide the poster into the frame, and the magnets hold it securely in place.

Now that you have some ideas for enhancing your homeschooling space, here’s a tip:

Involve your children in the decorating process. Let them choose artwork, posters, or inspirational quotes to display. Giving them ownership of their learning environment encourages a sense of pride and engagement.

Remember, the atmosphere in which your children learn can greatly impact their motivation and enthusiasm. By incorporating these display items and involving your children in the creative process, you’ll create an environment that fosters a love for learning and sparks their imagination.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a glimpse into our homeschooling journey with some of our favorite homeschool supplies. From printers and paper types to writing utensils and art supplies, organizational tools, and creating a beautiful learning environment, these key takeaways can help you enhance your homeschooling experience:

• A reliable printer like the Epson EcoTank 3700 or M3170 can save you time and money.

• Choosing the right type of paper is essential for different activities and projects.

• Investing in high-quality writing utensils like Dixon Ticonderoga pencils, erasable pens, Microns, and highlighters can make a big difference in your child’s engagement.

• Don’t underestimate the power of art supplies like a sketchpad and watercolor paints in promoting creativity.

• Get organized with dividers, sheet protectors, folders, clipboards, carts, baskets, jars, and a parts organizer to create an efficient homeschooling environment.

• Create a visually appealing and inspiring atmosphere using glass domes, wall grids with clips, tabletop easels, small whiteboards, and magnetic poster frames.

By incorporating these supplies into your homeschooling routine, you’ll be well-equipped to facilitate smooth day-to-day education at home. As Rebecca, a homeschooling mom following Charlotte Mason’s methods, can attest, this approach offers incredible freedom and flexibility.

Remember, every homeschooling journey is unique, and finding the perfect supplies that work for you and your child may take some trial and error. The key is to discover what sparks joy, motivation, and creativity in your homeschooling environment.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into our homeschooling supplies. Now go ahead and make learning at home a truly amazing experience for you and your child!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I purchase materials?

You can find a wide range of homeschooling supplies at various retailers, both online and offline. Popular options include educational supply stores, Amazon, Walmart, Target, and online specialty homeschooling stores. Consider exploring local homeschooling groups or second-hand platforms for gently used supplies at a lower cost.

Are materials for homeschool expensive?

The cost of homeschooling supplies can vary depending on your budget and specific needs. While some supplies have higher price points, there are also affordable alternatives available. Prioritize the essential supplies first and add others gradually. Additionally, consider reusing and repurposing materials you may already have at home to keep costs down.

How can I organize and store materials effectively?

Organization is key to maintaining a smooth homeschooling routine. Here are a few tips:

1. Use dividers and folders to keep subjects and assignments separate.

2. Utilize sheet protectors to preserve important documents and worksheets.

3. Consider using clipboards for portable workstations or carts and baskets for easy mobility.

4. Use jars to store smaller items like pencils, erasers, and art supplies.

5. Invest in a parts organizer with adjustable compartments for keeping small materials organized.

How can I create a homeschooling schedule?

Creating a homeschooling schedule allows for a structured routine. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Determine learning goals and subjects to cover.

2. Set a consistent start and end time for each day.

3. Break down subjects into manageable blocks with breaks in between.

4. Incorporate hands-on activities, outdoor time, and other enriching experiences.

5. Be flexible and adjust the schedule as needed based on your child’s progress and interests.

Remember, finding the right schedule may take time and experimentation. It’s important to create a balance between structured learning and allowing for flexibility and exploration.