Independent curriculum is a customizable approach where homeschool parents select and combine individual educational resources rather than using a pre-packaged, all-in-one boxed curriculum.
What is Independent Curriculum?
Independent curriculum—sometimes called "à la carte" or "eclectic" homeschooling—means you curate your own educational program by selecting individual resources for each subject rather than purchasing everything from one provider. Maybe you love Saxon Math but prefer All About Reading for language arts. Perhaps you use online science courses but create your own history studies from library books and documentaries. This approach gives you maximum control over what and how your children learn, but requires more planning than opening a boxed curriculum and following instructions.
Key Takeaways
- You choose individual resources for each subject rather than using an all-in-one package
- Allows maximum flexibility to match each child's learning style and interests
- Requires more parental planning and research than pre-packaged options
- Can be more budget-friendly using library resources, free online tools, and selective purchases
- Works best for experienced homeschoolers comfortable with curriculum decisions
Independent vs. Boxed Curriculum
Who Should Consider This Approach
Independent curriculum works well for families with children who have specific learning styles that don't fit standard programs, experienced homeschoolers confident in their curriculum choices, parents who enjoy researching and curating materials, families seeking budget flexibility (using library resources extensively), and high schoolers with clear academic interests requiring specialized materials. It's less ideal for first-year homeschoolers still learning what works, families wanting minimal planning and prep, or parents uncomfortable making curriculum decisions without guidance.
Building Your Own Curriculum
Making It Manageable
The biggest challenge with independent curriculum is the research load. A few strategies help: Start with one or two subjects you curate yourself while using structured curriculum for others. Join homeschool forums where parents share reviews of what worked (and didn't). Use your library extensively before purchasing—many curriculum decisions become obvious once you've held the actual materials. And remember that changing mid-year is fine. A curriculum that's not working wastes more time than switching to something better.
The Bottom Line
Independent curriculum offers maximum flexibility and personalization, letting you build education around your specific child rather than forcing them into a pre-set mold. The tradeoff is time—researching, selecting, and organizing materials requires ongoing effort. Many families find a middle ground: curating some subjects independently while using structured curriculum for others. Start simple, adjust as you learn what works, and don't expect perfection in year one.
