Curriculum & Supplies

Homeschool supplies starter buying guide

New homeschoolers tend to over-buy. This guide covers the genuinely useful basics, the things you can borrow or skip, and how to avoid a closet full of unused supplies.

The core supplies worth buying

#1
Best overall

Crayola Crayon Classpack (832 Count)

Crayola

Buying core art supplies in a bulk classpack costs less per item and means you rarely run out mid-project.

Best for
Families who go through art supplies quickly or teach multiple kids.
Skip if
Single-child households that don't do much art.
Watch out
Bulk packs are large; make sure you'll use them before storage becomes an issue.

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#2
Best value

Amazon Basics Small Dry Erase Whiteboard (11x14)

Amazon Basics

A lap-sized magnetic whiteboard turns practice problems into low-stakes, wipe-and-retry work, which reduces frustration.

Best for
Math practice, spelling, and reusable daily work.
Skip if
Those who prefer paper records of every practice.
Watch out
Buy low-odor markers; confirm the size for your needs.

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#3
Premium pick

Undated Homeschool Planner & Lesson Plan Book

Homeschool Planner

A dedicated undated planner keeps attendance, lesson plans, and records in one place, which matters for reporting in many states.

Best for
Staying organized and keeping records for compliance.
Skip if
Families who prefer a digital planning app.
Watch out
Independently published planners change often; check your state's record-keeping requirements and pick a format that fits.

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Key buying criteria

  • Reusability. Prioritize items you'll use daily across the year.
  • Multi-child value. Bulk basics pay off if you teach more than one kid.
  • Storage cost. Every supply needs a home; don't buy what you can't store.

What to check on Amazon before buying

  • Pack sizes so you don't over- or under-buy.
  • Whether markers/pouches are included with related items.
  • Age-appropriateness of supplies.
  • Your state's record-keeping requirements before choosing a planner.

Setup and usage tips

  • Start with a short list. Add supplies as real needs appear.
  • Use a whiteboard for practice. It cuts paper use dramatically.
  • Check your state's rules. Record-keeping requirements vary.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Buying a full 'classroom'. You don't need a school's worth of supplies at home.
  • Trendy one-use kits. Novelty items often get used once.
  • Skipping a planner. Records matter in many states; plan for it.

How we choose

  • We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
  • We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
  • We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
  • We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.

We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.

Final recommendation

Start lean: a bulk pack of core art supplies, a reusable whiteboard, and a planner that fits your state's needs. Add subject-specific items only when a lesson actually calls for them.

GuideThe homeschool supplies checklistGuideHow to homeschool on a budgetBuying guideThe best homeschool planners

Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.