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Step 1
Check out your library. Librarians are some of the most helpful people and even when they don't know the answer, they know how to find out. With database searches that libraries have available, you have access to virtually every public library in the country, and inter-library loans are often free or available for a nominal fee.
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Step 2
Stop at thrift stores and garage sales. You never know what treasures you might find. Sometimes the seller at a garage sale will advertise that homeschooling curriculum will be sold. Just be sure to get there early.
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Step 3
Shop the used curriculum swaps and sales. If you join a local support group and your state homeschooling organization, you should receive notices of used curriculum swaps. These sales can save you plenty of money, and you have the added bonus of getting to meet more homeschoolers from your area.
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Step 4
Go on field trips and use community resources. Besides providing educational opportunities galore, you never know when these connections might lead to volunteer opportunities, jobs, or even apprenticeships for your children who are interested in a particular area of study.
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Step 5
Team up with other homeschooling families. Not only can you share resources, but you can also share areas of expertise. One parent can lead a group of children in diagramming a sentence, and another parent can help the kids dissect a frog.
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Step 6
Check for discounts. Many craft stores, office supply stores, bookstores and others will give an educator's discount. They will almost always include homeschoolers in this. Usually all you need to get the discount is a card or other document showing that you belong to a homeschool organization.
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Step 7
Turn on the TV. PBS has great resources for teachers on their PBS Teachers website. Choose the programs that will complement whatever you're studying, with teaching aids to go along with it.
