So, you've decided to homeschool your child in the Catholic faith. That's awesome! But now comes the exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, task of choosing the right curriculum.
It's easy to feel a bit lost with so many Catholic homeschooling programs available. Each program has its own unique approach, from traditional and classical to Charlotte Mason-inspired and everything in between.
It's like trying to find the right pair of shoes – there are so many styles, sizes, and brands to choose from! Some programs are very traditional, while others are more modern. Some are super structured, while others give you lots of flexibility. And of course, they all have different costs and features.
This blog is your guide to finding the perfect Catholic homeschool curriculum for your kid. We'll compare some of the most popular programs, highlighting what makes each one unique.
We'll also discuss the important things to consider when making your decision. That will help you feel confident that you're choosing the best option for your child's education and faith formation.
Before we get into the different Catholic homeschool curriculums, let’s discuss their benefits first.
5 Benefits of Choosing a Catholic Homeschool Curriculum
Choosing a Catholic homeschool curriculum can offer unique advantages for families seeking to integrate their faith into their children's education. Here are some key benefits:
1. Faith Formation
A Catholic homeschool curriculum helps children deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and develop a strong relationship with God. It provides opportunities for prayer, scripture study, and learning about the lives of saints and important figures in Church history.
2. Moral and Ethical Development
A Catholic curriculum emphasizes moral and ethical values based on Catholic teachings. It helps children develop a strong moral compass, make good choices, and understand the importance of living a virtuous life.
3. Family Values
Homeschooling with a Catholic curriculum allows families to integrate their faith and values into every aspect of their children's education. It creates a learning environment where faith is not just a subject but a way of life.
4. Community and Support
Many Catholic homeschooling programs offer a sense of community and support through online forums, local groups, or co-ops. This allows families to connect with other Catholic homeschoolers, share experiences, and find encouragement.
Looking for a supportive homeschooling community?
The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers more than just a curriculum; we provide a vibrant and supportive online community where you can connect with other homeschooling families.
Connect and share: Access our member site to engage with other parents, share experiences, and find encouragement.
Learn from experts: Participate in live online gatherings with educators and the founder of TSHA.
Get support: Attend live office hours or connect with our parent/educator support network.
Stay informed: Enjoy our podcasts, weekly email updates, and bi-weekly newsletters filled with homeschooling tips and inspiration.
With TSHA, you're not alone on your homeschooling journey. Join our community and experience the difference that support and connection can make!
5. Academic Excellence
Catholic homeschool curriculum often provides a rigorous academic foundation, preparing children for success in higher education and beyond. Many programs incorporate classic literature, Latin studies, and a strong emphasis on critical thinking skills.
Now that you know the benefits of choosing a Catholic homeschool curriculum, let’s discuss how some of the top programs stack up against each other.
Comparing Top 5 Catholic Homeschool Curriculums
When it comes to Catholic homeschooling, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular Catholic homeschool curriculums, highlighting their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
Seton Home Study School is a well-known and established Catholic homeschooling program. It's like a traditional school, but you get to do it at home! They have a strong focus on the Catholic faith. So it's a good choice for families who want their children's education to be rooted in their religious beliefs.
Structure
Seton is organized by grade level, just like a regular school. They provide you with daily lesson plans and assignments, so you know exactly what to teach each day. This can be really helpful for parents who like having a clear structure and schedule.
Features
Textbooks and workbooks: Seton gives you all the books and workbooks your child will need for their lessons. These books are colorful and engaging, and they cover all the important subjects your child needs to learn.
Online resources: You'll also have access to helpful online resources, like practice quizzes, extra activities, and videos that can help your child understand the lessons better.
Teacher support: If you ever have any questions about the curriculum or need help explaining something to your child, Seton has real teachers available to help you. You can contact them by phone or email, and they'll be happy to assist you.
Grading service: Grading your child's work can take a lot of time! If you'd rather spend that time doing other things with your child, Seton offers a grading service where they'll take care of grading your child's assignments and tests for you.
Pros:
Strong Catholic identity: Seton weaves Catholic teachings throughout all subjects, helping your children grow in their faith while they learn.
Structured and organized: The daily lesson plans and assignments make it easy to stay on track and ensure your child is learning everything they need to know.
Comprehensive materials: Seton provides all the books and resources you need, so you don't have to spend time searching for them yourself.
Teacher support: You can get help from experienced teachers if you have questions or need guidance.
Cons:
Less flexibility: The structured approach might not be the best fit for families who prefer a more flexible or child-led approach to homeschooling.
Can be expensive: Seton's comprehensive program can be more expensive than some other homeschooling options.
Is Seton right for your family?
Seton might be a good choice if you're looking for a structured and comprehensive Catholic homeschooling program with a strong emphasis on faith formation.
However, if you prefer a more flexible or independent approach, you might want to consider other options.
Mother of Divine Grace School (MODG) offers a Catholic homeschooling program with a classical twist. "Classical" means they use a special way of teaching that's been around for a long time. It's based on something called the Trivium, which focuses on three stages of learning: grammar, logic, and rhetoric.
Structure:
MODG believes in mastering skills and concepts through repetition and memorization. This means your child will spend time practicing and reviewing what they've learned to make sure they really understand it.
Features
Classic literature: Your child will get to explore classic literature, which means they'll read famous stories, poems, and plays that have been loved for generations. This will help them learn about different cultures and time periods, and it will also help them become better readers and writers.
Latin studies: They'll learn the basics of Latin, which is a very old language that was spoken in ancient Rome. Learning Latin can help your child understand other languages better, and it can also improve their English grammar and vocabulary.
Catholic doctrine: The program includes in-depth instruction in the Catholic faith. This means your child will learn about the Bible, the teachings of the Catholic Church, and how to live a life that follows Jesus's example.
Pros:
Strong academic foundation: The classical approach helps children develop strong critical thinking and communication skills.
Focus on mastery: By repeating and memorizing key concepts, children build a solid foundation for future learning.
Rich in the Catholic tradition: MODG integrates Catholic teachings and values throughout the curriculum.
Cons:
May not suit all learning styles: The classical approach, with its emphasis on memorization and repetition, might not be the best fit for every child.
Requires discipline: This type of learning requires discipline and focus, which might be challenging for some children.
Can be rigorous: MODG's curriculum can be academically rigorous, which might be overwhelming for some families.
Is MODG right for your family?
MODG could be a good choice if you're looking for a classical Catholic homeschooling program that emphasizes a strong academic foundation and a deep understanding of the Catholic faith.
However, if your child prefers a more hands-on or project-based approach, you might want to explore other options.
Kolbe Academy is another Catholic homeschooling program that uses the classical approach (remember the Trivium - grammar, logic, and rhetoric?). But what makes Kolbe a bit different is that they really encourage kids to learn independently.
Structure:
Kolbe gives you choices! You can have your child take online classes with live teachers, or you can use their textbook-based program where you do the teaching. This flexibility can be really helpful for families who want to mix and match different learning styles.
Features:
Variety of subjects: Kolbe offers a wide range of subjects to choose from, just like a regular school! This means your child can learn about all the important things, like math, science, history, and language arts. They also have some really cool classes you might not find in a typical homeschool curriculum, like filmmaking, astronomy, and creative writing.
Electives: If your child has a special interest, like music, art, or computers, Kolbe has elective courses they can take to learn even more about those things. This helps them explore their passions and discover new talents.
Foreign languages: Want your child to learn a new language? Kolbe offers courses in Spanish, French, Latin, and German. Learning a new language can be a lot of fun, and it can also help your child understand different cultures and communicate with people from all over the world.
AP classes: If your child is in high school and wants to get a head start on college, Kolbe offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes. These are college-level courses that can help your child earn college credit while still in high school. This can save them time and money when they go to college!
Pros:
Classical education with flexibility: You get the benefits of a classical education with the freedom to choose how your child learns best.
Variety of courses: Kolbe offers a wide range of subjects, including electives and AP classes, to cater to different interests.
Promotes independence: Kolbe encourages children to take ownership of their learning and develop self-discipline.
Cons:
Requires self-discipline: Independent learning requires a lot of self-discipline and motivation, which might be challenging for some children.
Online courses can be isolating: If your child chooses online courses, they might miss out on some of the social interaction that comes with traditional homeschooling.
Can be expensive: Kolbe's program can be expensive, especially if you choose the online option.
Is Kolbe right for your family?
Kolbe might be a good fit if you're looking for a classical Catholic homeschooling program that offers flexibility and encourages independent learning.
However, if your child needs a lot of structure and guidance, or if you're looking for a more affordable option, you might want to explore other programs.
Our Lady of Victory School (OLVS) is a Catholic homeschooling program that's all about keeping things traditional. They have a strong focus on the Catholic faith and use a book called The Baltimore Catechism to teach children about their religion.
Structure:
OLVS is very structured, with daily lesson plans and regular tests to check your child's progress. This can be helpful for families who like having a clear roadmap for their homeschooling journey.
Features:
Religious instruction: OLVS puts a big emphasis on teaching children about their Catholic faith. They use a special book called the Baltimore Catechism, which helps children learn the important prayers and beliefs of the Catholic Church.
Traditional subjects: Just like in a regular school, OLVS teaches all the important subjects, like math, reading, and science. They use textbooks and workbooks to help your child learn the basics and build a strong foundation for future learning.
Latin studies: OLVS believes that learning Latin is a great way to improve your child's understanding of language. Latin is a very old language that many other languages are based on. Learning Latin can help your child with their English grammar and vocabulary, and it can also make it easier for them to learn other languages in the future.
Pros:
Deeply rooted in Catholic tradition: OLVS provides a strong foundation in the Catholic faith and uses traditional teaching methods.
Structured and organized: The daily lesson plans and assessments make it easy to stay on track and ensure your child is learning what they need to know.
Affordable: OLVS is one of the more affordable Catholic homeschooling options.
Cons:
Very traditional: The traditional approach might not appeal to families who prefer a more modern or flexible homeschooling style.
Limited flexibility: The structured curriculum might not be the best fit for children who learn best through hands-on activities or independent exploration.
Emphasis on memorization: OLVS relies heavily on memorization and repetition, which might not be suitable for all learning styles.
Is OLVS right for your family?
OLVS might be a good choice if you're looking for a traditional and affordable Catholic homeschooling program with a strong emphasis on faith formation.
However, if you prefer a more flexible or hands-on approach, you might want to consider other options.
Mater Amabilis is a Catholic homeschooling program that's a little different from the others. It's inspired by a lady named Charlotte Mason, who believed in teaching children through interesting books, exploring nature, and appreciating art and music.
Structure:
Instead of using textbooks all the time, Mater Amabilis uses "living books." These are books that are well-written and tell exciting stories or share fascinating facts. They also encourage something called "narration," where your child tells you what they've learned in their own words. And they believe in spending time outdoors, learning about nature!
Features:
Catholic faith formation: Mater Amabilis makes sure your child learns about their Catholic faith in a way that's woven into all their subjects. It's not just a separate religion class; it's part of everything they learn. This helps them see how their faith connects to the world around them.
Living books: Instead of using boring textbooks all the time, Mater Amabilis uses exciting and interesting books to teach different subjects. These books might be stories, biographies, or even historical accounts. They're written in a way that makes learning fun and helps children remember what they've learned.
Hands-on projects: Mater Amabilis believes that children learn best by doing things. That's why they include lots of hands-on activities and crafts in their curriculum. This could be anything from building a model of a volcano to creating a beautiful piece of artwork.
Arts and music: Mater Amabilis wants children to appreciate the beauty of art and music. They include lessons and activities that help children learn about different kinds of art and music. They encourage children to express themselves creatively through drawing, painting, singing, and playing instruments.
Pros:
Engaging and enjoyable: Learning through stories and real-life experiences makes education fun and memorable.
Holistic approach: Mater Amabilis nurtures the whole child, focusing on their intellectual, spiritual, and creative development.
Strong Catholic identity: The curriculum integrates Catholic teachings and values in a natural and meaningful way.
Cons:
Requires parental involvement: This type of homeschooling requires more active involvement from parents, as you'll be guiding your child's learning and facilitating discussions.
Less structured: Mater Amabilis is less structured than some other programs, which might be challenging for families who prefer a more traditional approach.
May require additional planning: You might need to spend more time planning and preparing lessons compared to a more traditional curriculum.
Is Mater Amabilis right for your family?
Mater Amabilis could be a great choice if you're looking for a gentle and engaging Catholic homeschooling program that supports a love of learning and encourages your child's natural curiosity.
However, if you prefer a more structured approach or have limited time for lesson planning, you might want to consider other options.
Looking for a curriculum that combines the best of different approaches?
While the Catholic homeschooling programs we've discussed offer excellent options for families seeking a faith-based education, they may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Some families prefer a more holistic approach that integrates different learning styles, while others may find the strong emphasis on tradition or memorization limiting.
If you're looking for a curriculum that combines the best of different approaches, consider The School House Anywhere (TSHA), powered by the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC).
Here's how the AEC addresses some of the limitations of traditional Catholic curricula:
Flexibility and Adaptability: Unlike highly structured programs, the AEC allows for flexibility and customization, adapting to your child's pace and interests.
Engaging and Diverse Learning: The AEC goes beyond textbooks and memorization, incorporating hands-on activities, nature studies, and the arts to create a rich and engaging learning experience.
Focus on Critical Thinking: While upholding strong moral values, the AEC encourages children to question, analyze, and form their own conclusions. This supports independent thinking and a lifelong love of learning.
Visit TSHA to learn more about how TSHA can support your homeschooling journey!
With so many Catholic homeschool programs available, how do you choose the one that fits your family’s needs?
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Curriculum
Finding the perfect Catholic homeschool curriculum for your family is a big decision! It's important to choose a program that fits your child's needs, your family's values, and your homeschooling style. Here are some things to think about:
1. Religious Emphasis
Catholic homeschooling programs can be different in how much they focus on religion. Some programs make religious instruction a big part of every subject, while others include it in a more subtle way.
It's important to decide how important religious learning is to your family and choose a program that matches your preferences. Some families want religion to be a central part of every subject, while others prefer a more balanced approach.
2. Educational Philosophy
There are different ways to approach education, even within Catholic homeschooling. Some programs use a traditional approach, similar to what you might find in a Catholic school. Others use a classical approach, which focuses on mastering skills through repetition and memorization.
Some programs are inspired by Charlotte Mason, who believed in learning through living books, nature study, and the arts. Consider which philosophy best aligns with your family's values and your child's learning style.
The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a unique approach to homeschooling that integrates art, nature, and hands-on learning into every aspect of the curriculum.
Here's how TSHA brings art and nature to life:
Art Appreciation: We introduce children to a variety of art forms, from painting and sculpture to music and dance. This encourages them to explore their own creativity and express themselves through art.
Nature Studies: We believe that nature is a powerful teacher. Our curriculum includes nature walks, outdoor exploration, and hands-on activities that connect children with the natural world and inspire a sense of wonder.
Creative Expression: We encourage children to express themselves through art, music, and storytelling, nurturing their imaginations and building confidence.
Interconnected Learning: We show children how art and nature connect to other subjects, like science, history, and math, making learning more meaningful and engaging.
Visit TSHA to learn more about how we can help you create a learning environment that celebrates the arts and the wonders of nature!
3. Learning Style
Every child learns differently. Some children thrive in a structured environment with clear expectations and daily lessons. Others prefer a more flexible approach with hands-on activities and independent exploration. Think about what kind of learning environment and activities best suit your child's needs and interests.
4. Structure and Flexibility
Homeschooling programs can be very different when it comes to how they're organized. Some programs are like having a teacher tell you exactly what to do each day. They give you detailed lesson plans and assignments, which can be helpful if you like having a clear structure and schedule.
Other programs like The School House Anywhere (TSHA) are more flexible. TSHA gives you the freedom to choose what your child learns and how they learn it. You can customize the lessons, go at your child's own pace, and even add your own activities and ideas. TSHA offers a customizable curriculum that allows you to tailor your child's education to their unique needs and interests.
5. Budget and Resources
Homeschooling curriculums can range in price from free online resources to expensive boxed sets with textbooks and materials. Think about your budget and what you can afford to spend on curriculum materials and resources.
Also, consider whether you need additional support, such as access to online tutors or a community of homeschooling families.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a Catholic homeschooling curriculum that meets your family's unique needs and helps your child thrive on their educational journey.
Wrapping Up
As you've seen, there are many wonderful Catholic homeschooling programs available, each with its own unique strengths and approach to education. The key is to find the one that best fits your child's needs, your family's values, and your homeschooling style.
Whether you prefer a traditional, classical, or Charlotte Mason approach, there's a Catholic homeschooling curriculum out there that can help your child grow in their faith and knowledge.
Remember to consider factors like the program's religious emphasis, structure, flexibility, and cost when making your decision.
Want to explore a secular option that still honors many of the values found in Catholic education?
The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a unique, screen-free curriculum that supports a love of learning, critical thinking, and a strong moral compass. While TSHA doesn't include religious instruction, it emphasizes values like kindness, gratitude, and civic responsibility. This aligns with many of the principles found in Catholic education.
Here's what makes TSHA so unique:
The American Emergent Curriculum (AEC): Our innovative, screen-free curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
Interconnected subjects: We show kids how everything connects, from math and science to history and art. Learning becomes a fascinating journey of discovery, not just a list of isolated facts.
Hands-on activities: Get ready for lots of fun experiments, projects, and real-world learning! We believe that children learn best by doing, not just by sitting and listening.
No boring textbooks: We use engaging stories, games, and discussions to bring learning to life. Say goodbye to dull worksheets and hello to exciting adventures!
Amazing Results: Kids who use TSHA score way above average on tests. That's because our curriculum is designed to help them truly understand and apply what they learn.
Tons of Support: We're here to help you every step of the way.
Helpful videos: Learn how to teach each lesson with 300+ easy-to-follow video guides.
Printable activities: Get ready-to-use worksheets and activities to make learning fun.
Live support from teachers: Ask questions and get help from experienced educators whenever you need it.
A friendly community: Connect with other homeschooling families for support and encouragement. You're not alone on this journey!
Flexible Learning: You can adjust the lessons to fit your child's interests and learning style. It's like having a personalized education just for them!
Important Values: We don't just teach school subjects. We also help kids learn about kindness, responsibility, and being a good citizen. We believe in building character and raising children who are not only smart but also kind and compassionate.
Based on Research: Our curriculum is created by experts and is based on years of research, so you know it's high-quality and effective.
Visit The School House Anywhere today to learn more and discover how we can support your homeschooling journey!
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