Finding curriculum doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Over the years, I’ve learned that some of the best resources come from community connections, secondhand shops, and a few trusted educational suppliers. These are the places I return to again and again when building our homeschool year. The library is a great start and I personally love library sales especially when I am looking to build the kids’ reading habits, but it often lacks variety when it comes to curriculum.
Trading With Other Homeschoolers (My First Choice)
My absolute favorite way to get curriculum is by swapping with other homeschool families either at local meet‑ups or through online groups. A buy nothing group, a local homeschool group, or even the Next Door app are great places to start.
Why I love this option:
Free or very low‑cost
You can pass along what you’re done with
Real families can tell you how a curriculum worked for them
It builds community and reduces waste
Used Bookstores
When swaps aren’t an option, used bookstores are my next stop. They’re affordable, cozy, and full of unexpected finds. In the future I would love to put together a list of great bookstores in each state!
Why they’re great:
Very budget‑friendly
You can flip through books before buying
Many offer trade‑in credit
You support local businesses
Inventory changes constantly, so it’s worth checking often.
Online Used Marketplaces
If I need something specific, I look online. These platforms make it easy to search by title or ISBN.
My favorites:
Pango Books — lots of homeschoolers selling directly
ThriftBooks — huge inventory and reward points
eBay — great for out‑of‑print or niche curriculum
These are especially helpful for literature‑based subjects or replacing missing pieces.
Rainbow Resource Center
Rainbow Resource is a classic homeschool favorite with an enormous catalog.
Why I shop here:
Competitive pricing
Tons of curriculum options
Helpful product descriptions
Great for comparing similar programs
It’s a one‑stop shop when you’re researching or building a full year.
Timberdoodle
Timberdoodle is perfect for families who love hands‑on, creative learning.
What stands out:
High‑quality, unique materials
STEM, logic, and fine‑motor resources
Secular and religious kit options
Lots of educational games and puzzles
(Even browsing their catalog sparks ideas.)
Nasco Education
Nasco is my go‑to for science and art supplies, especially for upper elementary and beyond.
Why I like Nasco:
Classroom‑grade materials
Excellent for hands‑on science
Wide range of art and STEM tools
Great prices on bulk items
(Perfect for elevating your experiments or art projects.)
Final Thoughts
Homeschooling doesn’t require buying everything brand new. Some of the best finds come from swapping, trading, and exploring secondhand options. Whether you’re planning your first year or refreshing your shelves, these sources offer affordable, sustainable, and community‑centered ways to gather what you need.