Cathy Duffy Reviews is a comprehensive, independent curriculum review website featuring over 1,000 detailed evaluations of homeschool materials. Founded by homeschool pioneer Cathy Duffy, the site helps families select curriculum through thorough reviews, learning style assessments, and advanced search tools.
What are Cathy Duffy Reviews?
Cathy Duffy Reviews has guided homeschool curriculum decisions since 1984, when Cathy Duffy began reviewing materials during what she calls "the dark ages of homeschooling." Having homeschooled her three sons through high school graduation, Duffy brings four decades of practical experience to her evaluations. Unlike publisher descriptions or paid endorsements, her reviews offer honest, thorough analysis of curriculum strengths, weaknesses, and best-fit scenarios. The site now contains over 1,000 reviews covering K-12 resources across all subjects, from comprehensive grade-level packages to individual subject curricula.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1,000 curriculum reviews with detailed analysis of teaching methods and philosophy
- Publishers never pay for reviews—all evaluations are editorially independent
- Free learning styles questionnaire helps match children with compatible curricula
- Advanced search filters by subject, grade, approach, and learning style
- Author of 103 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum (most recent edition)
The Learning Styles Assessment
One of the site's most valuable tools is the free learning styles questionnaire. Rather than using traditional learning style categories, Duffy developed her own framework with memorable names: Wiggly Willy (active, hands-on learners), Perfect Paula (detail-oriented, structured learners), Competent Carl (independent, self-directed learners), and Sociable Sue (social, group-oriented learners). Most children show characteristics of multiple types. After completing the assessment, you can filter curriculum searches to find materials that match your child's learning preferences.
How Reviews Are Structured
Each review provides substantially more detail than you'll find on publisher websites. Duffy examines educational philosophy, teaching methodology, religious and political perspectives, grade-level appropriateness, and learning style compatibility. She identifies both strengths and potential drawbacks, acknowledging that no curriculum works perfectly for every family. The reviews answer the questions homeschooling parents actually have: How much teacher preparation is required? Is this appropriate for self-directed learners? What's the underlying educational approach?
Reviews are continually updated as publishers release new editions and as Duffy gains additional insight from user feedback.
Using the Site Effectively
Start with the learning styles questionnaire to understand your child's preferences. Then use the advanced search tool—filter by subject, grade level, educational approach (Charlotte Mason, classical, unit studies), religious perspective, and methodology. The site recommends beginning with broad searches and narrowing gradually.
Duffy's Top Picks books offer curated recommendations for families who prefer offline research. The most recent edition, *103 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum*, distills her evaluation of thousands of products into manageable selections with at-a-glance comparison charts.
The Bottom Line
In a market flooded with curriculum options and paid promotions, Cathy Duffy Reviews stands out for its independence and depth. Duffy's four decades of experience translate into practical, nuanced guidance that helps families avoid expensive mistakes. The site won't tell you what to buy—but it will give you the information you need to make a confident choice. For families overwhelmed by curriculum options, starting here often saves both money and frustration.
