It doesn't cost a ton of money.

Cost is a big concern when homeschooling.  I know that curriculum can be several hundred dollars, plus any sort of co-op fees or supplies cost.  It adds up.  But I wanted to let everyone know that it's possible to cut down some of the costs, especially when teaching preK and K.

First, use the internet!  There are so many FREE resources out there that are really great learning tools.  Whenever I'm stuck on coming up with a lesson, I just put my topic into google.  Simple as that.  I'd say a lot of what I do with my own child is made by me or my husband.

This is a picture of my son's word study for the day.  We've been working on the difference between "b" and "d" for the past few lessons and today we did a simple collage.  You'll notice that the dog is on both b and d because my son insisted the dog is named "Barky", so of course, he had to be on both pages :)  But it was simple to make and cost efficient, just some old magazine!

This is a shape worksheet my husband made for my son.  The directions were to draw a line between the shape word and a picture of the shape.

Now don't get me wrong, I buy plenty for homeschooling.  The BOB Books are awesome for early learners and worth every penny.  I also have a ton of workbooks.  Also, as my son gets older, I know I'm going to be buying one of those big curriculum packs (I still don't know which curriculum, but I can't imagine teaching the older grades without one.)  But in these early years, I've found that I can get away with making my own lessons and resources.  Or hit up the thrift stores, used curriculum sales, library book sales....you'd be surprised what sort of teaching treasures you can find!

But ultimately, it's up to you.  The wonderful thing about homeschooling is that it can be tailored for each kid.  If you find an awesome preK or K program, then go for it!  If you prefer to make your own, also go for it!  A combination of both??  Yes please!