Homeschooling provides the freedom to design an education that fits your child’s unique needs. When it comes to US history, the choices are endless, and picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Finding the best US history curriculum for homeschool means looking for a program that combines accurate historical content, engaging resources, and a format that appeals to your child’s learning style.
Below, we’ll walk through ten excellent options to consider, along with tips for choosing the right fit for your family.
How to Choose the Best US History Curriculum for Homeschool
Before jumping into specific recommendations, it helps to have a game plan for evaluating your options. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Understand Your Child’s Learning Style
- Visual learners might prefer programs with vibrant images, videos, or timelines.
- Hands-on learners often thrive with interactive or project-based activities.
- Auditory learners could benefit from narrations, read-alouds, or discussions.
Tailoring a curriculum to your child’s learning preferences ensures the material resonates and keeps them engaged. For example, storytelling-based curriculums may be perfect for kids who enjoy narratives, while others may need a more straightforward, fact-focused approach.
Look for Interdisciplinary Opportunities
Some curriculums incorporate literature, geography, or even art into their history lessons. This holistic approach can bring historical events to life and make them more relatable. For instance, reading historical fiction alongside a traditional history text provides emotional context while reinforcing factual knowledge.
Align With Your Goals and Values
Think about what you want your child to take away from history studies. Are you looking for a curriculum with a faith-based perspective or a secular approach? Is it essential for the program to include critical thinking exercises, primary source analysis, or discussions about cultural context?
Explore Reviews and Community Insights
Other homeschoolers’ experiences can be a goldmine of information. Check forums, testimonials, and homeschool groups online. Hearing firsthand what worked and didn’t for other families can save you time and frustration. With this groundwork in mind, you’re ready to explore some of the top options available.
Top 10 Best US History Curriculum for Homeschool
Here’s a look at ten of the best US history curriculums for homeschool, each offering unique strengths to suit different learning styles and family needs.
1. Story of the World
This popular curriculum takes a narrative approach to history, weaving stories that capture children’s imaginations. While it covers world history, it integrates US history into a global context. It’s ideal for younger children who will appreciate the storytelling format, while activity books provide maps, crafts, and project ideas to enrich the learning experience.
2. Notgrass History
For families who want to incorporate biblical principles into their lessons, Notgrass is a solid choice. It blends textbooks with literature-based learning and primary sources, offering a well-rounded foundation in American history. This curriculum appeals to middle and high schoolers, with options to earn credits in history, Bible, and literature simultaneously.
3. Sonlight
Sonlight is all about making history come alive through books. Using a literature-based approach, the program includes historical fiction, biographies, and narrative history, helping students connect personally with historical figures and events. Sonlight also offers flexible schedules, letting parents tailor the program to match their children’s pacing and interests.
4. Beautiful Feet Books – The American History Series
This curriculum combines excellent literature with historical insight to immerse students in US history. Beautiful Feet Books emphasizes storytelling and primary source analysis. Through reading classic novels and biographies, children gain a richer understanding of people and events while engaging their imaginations. It’s an inspiring option for both elementary and middle school students.
5. A History of Us by Joy Hakim
Designed for middle to high school students, “A History of Us” offers a series of lively, narrative-based books. Joy Hakim’s engaging writing style ensures history isn’t just a list of dates and facts but a collection of fascinating stories. Photos, illustrations, and a balanced take on historical events make this series a favorite for older students.
6. Time Travelers American History Study Series
This curriculum is a dream for hands-on learners. Time Travelers combines unit studies with engaging activities like lapbooks, crafts, and projects. Each module focuses on a specific period in US history, giving students a tactile, memorable way to explore topics like westward expansion or the Revolutionary War.
7. My Father’s World
My Father’s World integrates biblical principles and history into its thematic units. It blends subjects such as geography, science, and art, creating a multidisciplinary learning environment. My Father’s World works well for families who want a faith-based curriculum that connects history to broader world developments.
8. MasterBooks’ America’s Story
Geared toward elementary students, this curriculum uses captivating illustrations and stories to simplify complex events for young learners. America’s Story encourages students to see history as a collection of personal stories, making it more relatable and easier to remember. It’s perfect for families who want a gentle, engaging introduction to US history.
9. The Good and the Beautiful History Curriculum
This option is another excellent faith-based resource, blending beautiful artwork, timelines, and literature to teach American history. The Good and the Beautiful integrates subjects like art, philosophy, and science to provide context and a deeper understanding of cultural history.
10. BJU Press Heritage Studies
If you’re looking for a program with a strong academic slant, BJU Press Heritage Studies could be the answer. Designed from a Christian worldview, this curriculum balances historical content with critical thinking exercises. It also offers detailed teacher guides and online resources to make planning and teaching a breeze.
Are There Free US History Curriculums for Homeschoolers?
If you’re working with a tight budget, free resources can be a lifesaver. While not always as comprehensive, many free programs can serve as solid standalone curriculums or supplements. Here are some excellent options:
Khan Academy
Khan Academy provides in-depth video lessons and practice exercises on US history for middle and high school students. Topics range from colonial America to contemporary history, and the content is easily accessible and well-organized. Though not a full curriculum, it’s an excellent tool to fill in gaps or review key concepts.
CK-12 Foundation
The CK-12 platform offers customizable digital textbooks and interactive resources. You can adapt the materials to your child’s needs while covering everything from early America to modern US history. Their adaptive learning technology tracks progress and pinpoints areas needing improvement.
Smithsonian’s History Explorer
This robust resource hub includes primary sources, project ideas, and interactive activities. Whether analyzing historical documents or exploring virtual exhibitions, the Smithsonian’s tools offer hands-on ways to deepen your child’s knowledge.
The Library of Congress
The Library of Congress provides access to an enormous digital collection of historical documents, photographs, and teaching resources. It’s perfect for in-depth research projects or teaching students how to analyze primary sources.
National Geographic Education
National Geographic’s Education portal offers maps, articles, and videos covering significant events in US history. It’s especially valuable when linking American history to global cultural themes and geography.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best US history curriculum for homeschool is a balancing act between academic rigor, engagement, and suitability for your child’s learning style. Whether you choose a literature-based approach like Sonlight, a hands-on style like Time Travelers, or supplement with free resources like Khan Academy, the key is to remain flexible.
Build a program that sparks curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and helps your child appreciate the rich tapestry of American history.
