A curriculum swap is an event or online exchange where homeschool families buy, sell, or trade used educational materials, helping families save money while keeping quality curriculum in circulation.
What is a Curriculum Swap?
Curriculum swaps bring homeschool families together to exchange educational materials they no longer need. These can take several forms: in-person events at libraries or community centers, organized sales through local homeschool groups, or online exchanges via Facebook groups and dedicated websites. Some swaps are completely free exchanges where families simply trade materials. Others operate as sales where items typically sell for 40-50% off retail prices. The homeschool community has embraced swapping as both a practical money-saving strategy and an opportunity to connect with other families.
Key Takeaways
- Materials typically sell for 40-50% off retail prices at swap events
- Options include in-person events, online marketplaces, and Facebook groups
- Many public libraries host free curriculum exchange events
- Great for trying new curriculum without major financial commitment
- Helps declutter completed materials while helping other families
Types of Curriculum Swaps
Library-hosted swaps are often completely free, operating on a take-what-you-need, leave-what-you-can basis. Homeschool co-op sales tend to be more structured, with families pricing their items and sometimes paying a small table fee. Online options include general groups like Homeschool Curriculum Marketplace and curriculum-specific groups for Sonlight, Math-U-See, Charlotte Mason materials, and other popular programs. The Pennsylvania Curriculum Exchange even operates a physical store with over 45,000 used books and manipulatives.
Tips for Buying at Swaps
Know what you're looking for before you arrive. Popular items go quickly at in-person events, so research curricula beforehand. Bring cash in small bills since many sellers can't make change. Ask sellers why they're selling: a curriculum that didn't work for one child might be perfect for yours, or there might be a good reason to avoid it. Check consumable workbooks carefully for writing, and verify that teacher guides and answer keys are included when buying textbook sets.
Tips for Selling at Swaps
Price fairly at 40-50% of retail for items in good condition. Erase pencil marks from workbooks and disclose any pen marks. Organize materials by grade level or subject to help browsers find what they need. Consider whether you'd rather sell lower and clear your shelves or bring items home for the next swap. The homeschool community values generosity, so answering questions honestly about how your family used the curriculum helps buyers make good decisions.
Finding Swaps Near You
Search Facebook for "[Your City] homeschool curriculum" groups. Check with local libraries about exchange events, particularly around back-to-school season. Homeschool co-ops and support groups often organize annual sales, sometimes in conjunction with conventions. Websites like Homeschool Classifieds and ThriftBooks offer year-round online options. Your state homeschool organization likely maintains a list of regional events and resources.
The Bottom Line
Curriculum swaps offer a practical way to stretch your homeschool budget while connecting with other families in your area. Whether you're trying to offload completed materials or searching for affordable curriculum to test with your learner, swaps provide options beyond paying full retail price. The community aspect is a bonus: you'll often learn as much from conversations with other homeschool parents as you save in dollars.
