📚 The Easiest Ways to Create Curriculum as a Homeschooler (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

One of the most common questions I get is:
"How do you even make your own homeschool curriculum? Isn’t that hard?"

Honestly? It doesn’t have to be.

In fact, creating your own curriculum can be simple, flexible, and even fun—especially when you let go of the idea that it needs to look like traditional school. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break free from boxed curriculums, here are the easiest ways to build something that works for your unique family.

🌟 1. Start with INTERESTS, Not Standards

Before you dive into planning, take a step back and ask:

• What are my child’s natural interests?

• What kind of learning lights them up?

• What kind of life do we want to create together?

This is where real learning starts.

Instead of rigid grade-level checklists, build around curiosity. If your child loves animals, outer space, cooking, or art—you already have the seed for a beautiful, natural curriculum.

🧩 2. Use a Themed Unit Study Approach

Themed units are a simple way to weave together reading, writing, science, art, and even math under one topic. They're customizable and easy to scale for multiple ages.

(You can grab a list of over ONE HUNDRED themes, with activities to go along with them HERE )

Example: A "Garden" Unit Could Include:

• Reading stories about plants (language arts)

• Writing plant-care instructions (writing)

• Measuring garden plots (math)

• Studying plant life cycles (science)

• Creating pressed flower bookmarks (art)

• Studying how plants can heal (botany)

💡 You can plan one theme per month (or weeks) whatever works best!

✏️ 3. Create a Weekly Rhythm (Not a Rigid Schedule)

Instead of mapping out every hour of every day, create a rhythm that leaves room for flow.

For example:

• Monday – Nature & Science

• Tuesday – Language Arts

• Wednesday – Art & Music

• Thursday – Math & Logic

• Friday – Life Skills + Free Choice

Then plug in simple activities that match your theme or goals. This keeps things organized without the stress of rigid scheduling. & DO NOT BE AFRAID TO DO MATH ON LANGUAGE ARTS DAY! It’s your homeschool, you make the rules!

📖 4. Use What You Already Have

You don’t need to buy an expensive curriculum set to get started.

Grab:

• LIBRARY books & audiobooks

• Free printables (there are tons online!)

• Educational YouTube channels & documentaries

• Nature journals, cooking, board games, and crafts

Most learning happens through living and exploring. You’re probably already doing more than you realize!

💻 5. Let Technology Be a Tool (Not a Crutch)

Supplement your DIY curriculum with low-prep digital tools:

• Khan Academy (free video lessons in math & more)

• Epic! Books (digital reading library)

• PBS Kids (educational games/videos)

• Outschool (live online classes on every topic)

• OERs (Open Educational Resources that are FREEEEEE) [made a post about them HERE]

Mix these into your week when you need support—or a breather.

🛠 6. Follow a Framework If You Want a Boost

If you like a little structure, but still want flexibility, look for open-ended frameworks like:

• The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart

• The Good and the Beautiful (pick-and-choose format)

• Charlotte Mason-inspired checklists

• Waldorf or Montessori guides (great for rhythm and hands-on ideas)

Think of these as scaffolding—not a script. Don’t be afraid to DITCH SOMETHING THAT ISN’T WORKING.

🌈 7. Remember: Learning Happens Everywhere

Cooking together? That’s math, science, and life skills.
Nature walk? That’s biology, mindfulness, and observation.
Storytime? That’s literacy, bonding, and imagination.

The easiest curriculum is the one that blends into your real life.
You don’t have to separate school from life when learning is your lifestyle.

Creating a homeschool curriculum doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little intention and a lot of trust, you can build something beautiful, personal, and deeply effective—without the stress.

Start small. Follow your child’s lead. Let curiosity guide you.
And remember: you don’t need to replicate school—you’re creating something better for your family.

Have you created your own curriculum?
Or are you just getting started? Share your questions or tips in the comments—I’d love to hear how your journey is unfolding.