Homeschool Spaces: Materials for Setup!

So you've decided to homeschool but you're unsure of what you may need to create a functional homeschool space. 

Below is a growing list of some materials and resources you may need to get or consider getting for your homeschool space. 

1. Desk or Table: A child-sized desk or table, preferably adjustable to accommodate growth.

For some homeschoolers the dining table doubles as the homeschool table so you may want to get silicone mats or plastic table cloths to cover the table when doing artwork or experiments.

2. Chairs: Comfortable chairs suitable for children's size and ergonomic support. Also consider seating options for the adult facilitating or supervising the learning.

3. Storage Solutions: Bins, baskets, shelves, and cabinets to organize and store books, supplies, and materials.

Budget Friendly Tip: Start by looking at storage bins and solutions you already have at home. An old baby changing station or toy bin can be repurposed as storage for your homeschool supplies. A closet with space, some extra shelves or some clear bins can be a storage solution. 

Once you've exhausted those options, check Facebook Marketplace, Ikea, the Dollar Store etc.

4. Educational Materials:

• Age appropriate books covering various subjects.
• Workbooks and worksheets for different grade levels.
• Manipulatives such as blocks, counters, and puzzles for hands-on learning.
• Art supplies including crayons, markers, colored pencils, paints, and paper.
• Science kits, educational games, and puzzles.

5. Learning Tools:

•  Whiteboard or chalkboard and the necessary supplies for writing and drawing activities.
•   Alphabet and number charts, posters, and educational visuals.
•   Flashcards for vocabulary, math facts, and sight words.
•   Calculator (for older grades)
•   Globe, Atlas or Large map of the world
•   Manipulatives like small toys or wooden/magnteic alphabets etc. for counting, sorting, categorizing and learning the alphabet. Be sure that what you select is age appropriate and will not pose a choking hazzard or other risk to your child. 

6. Technology:

• Computer or tablet with internet access for educational apps and online resources.
• Headphones for audio lessons or quiet individual work.

7. Comfort Items:

• Cushions, rugs, or bean bags for a cozy reading corner.
• Blankets for comfort during reading or quiet time.

8. Organizational Supplies:

• Folders, binders, and dividers for organizing curriculum materials.
• Labels and markers for labeling bins and storage containers.
• Calendar or planner for scheduling lessons, activities, and appointments.

9. Visual Aids & Decorations:

• Posters, wall decals, or educational banners to decorate the learning space.
• Personalized artwork, photos, or motivational quotes.

10. Cleaning Supplies:

• Wipes or cleaning spray for keeping the workspace tidy.
• Trash bin and recycling bin for disposing of waste.

11. Safety Equipment:

•  First aid kit for minor injuries.
•  Fire extinguisher and smoke detector for safety.

12. Supplementary Resources:

•   Library card for borrowing books and resources.
•   Access or memberships to educational websites, online learning platforms, and homeschooling communities for additional support and resources.

Takeaway

Note that as learners grow and change, their homeschool spaces should grow and or change to facilitate their learning. It doesn't have to be (and probably shouldn't be) the same setup for their whole homeschool experience. 

Remember to adapt the list based on your child's age, grade level, learning style, season of life and curriculum preferences. Additionally, consider your available space and budget when acquiring materials for your homeschool learning space.

Finally, if you're on a budget, be sure to shop around. Make use of free resources, through your local library, book bank, art gallery  children's museum etc, first. Also, compare prices and shop the sales, thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace to reduce your setup costs.