Curriculum Selection Guide 2025

One of the biggest decisions homeschool families face is choosing the right curriculum. With so many options out there—and even more opinions—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Should you go classical or interest-led? All-in-one box set or build-your-own? Online or hands-on?

The good news: there’s no single “right” curriculum. The best one is the one that works for your family. Here's how to think through your choices in 2025, plus how Oak and Lantern can help you every step of the way.

What to Consider Before Choosing

Before you click “buy now” on a full-year package, ask yourself a few key questions:

1. What’s Your Teaching Style?

Do you like to plan lessons or follow a set schedule?
Are you comfortable with open-ended exploration, or do you prefer a detailed guide?

Some parents thrive with pre-planned curriculum. Others prefer piecing together units based on what their child is interested in. Both are valid—and your style matters just as much as your child’s.

2. What’s Your Child’s Learning Style?

Visual, auditory, kinesthetic?
Does your child learn better independently or through discussion?
Do they need structure, or do they love flexibility?

Curriculum isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing one that fits how your child learns can make a huge difference in engagement and retention.

3. What’s Your Budget?

Curriculum costs can range from free resources to full programs that cost hundreds of dollars per subject. Many families blend paid and free resources (and we’re big fans of that approach).

Curriculum Formats to Explore

In 2025, there are more options than ever. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Traditional Textbook/Workbooks: Great for structure and easy to track.
Unit Studies: Interdisciplinary approach where subjects connect under one theme.
Online Curriculum & Apps: Self-paced platforms like Khan Academy, Time4Learning, or Oak Meadow.
Hybrid/Co-Op-Based: Some curriculum is built to pair with weekly in-person classes or group learning.
Interest- or Project-Based: Great for self-driven learners who want to go deep on a topic.
Faith-Based or Secular Options: Make sure the values and worldview align with your family’s priorities.

Top Trends in 2025

AI-Personalized Learning: Platforms are getting smarter—some tools adjust pace and content based on your child’s responses.
Modular & Mix-and-Match: Families are increasingly choosing to build their own learning paths using multiple sources.
Global & Culturally Inclusive Content: More programs are including world history, diverse authors, and cross-cultural lessons.
Hands-On & Outdoor Learning: Especially popular with nature-based or Montessori-inspired families.
Microlearning & Bite-Sized Lessons: Perfect for families who need flexibility or have kids who learn better in shorter sessions.

How Oak and Lantern Can Help

Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed by options? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out yourself.

At Oak and Lantern, we specialize in helping families:

Build customized learning paths based on grade level, interests, and family goals
Match your child’s learning style with the right format and resources
Integrate AI tutoring into your homeschool day for consistent support
Align lessons with testing benchmarks like MAPS, without sacrificing creativity
Provide guidance if you’re creating your own curriculum from scratch

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to revamp your current approach, we offer resources, 1-on-1 support, and curated tools to make it easier.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a curriculum in 2025 is less about picking the “perfect” one and more about choosing what’s right for now—knowing that you can tweak, swap, or pivot later. Start small, stay flexible, and trust that learning happens best when it’s built around your child, not a rigid schedule.

And remember, at Oak and Lantern, we’re here to help you create a curriculum that grows with your family, your values, and your goals. Let’s build something beautiful—together.

With care,
Danielle Little

Choosing the Right Curriculum in 2025