Choosing to homeschool is a significant decision that allows families to tailor education to their children’s specific needs and values. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), homeschooling often includes a desire to integrate gospel principles with academic subjects. Finding the right LDS homeschool resources is essential for creating a balanced and fulfilling learning environment.
This article provides a detailed overview of the most popular and effective resources available for LDS families. From comprehensive curriculums and online academies to local support groups and free supplements, these tools are designed to simplify your homeschooling journey. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced educator, these resources will help you provide a high-quality education rooted in faith.
Why Use LDS-Specific Homeschool Resources?
LDS-specific resources are designed to align with the doctrines and values of the Church. This integration helps children see the connection between their faith and the world around them. Many families find that using these materials makes it easier to include daily scripture study and gospel discussions within their school hours.
Using these resources also provides a sense of community. Many of these programs are developed by LDS parents and educators who understand the unique cultural and spiritual needs of Latter-day Saint families. This shared perspective can make the educational process feel more cohesive and supported.
Top LDS Homeschool Curriculums
Selecting a core curriculum is often the first step in planning your homeschool year. Several companies offer full programs that incorporate LDS perspectives or align closely with LDS values.
The Family School (American Heritage School)
The Family School is one of the most well-known resources for LDS families. It is a complete, K-8 curriculum that covers history, literature, science, geography, and art through the lens of the restored gospel. It is designed for “family-style” learning, meaning multiple children of different ages can study the same topic together at their own levels.
Latter-day Learning
Latter-day Learning offers a variety of resources, including the “Red Edge” curriculum. Their approach focuses on a providential view of history and science, emphasizing God’s hand in all things. They provide lesson plans, online courses, and physical materials that are deeply rooted in LDS theology.
The Good and the Beautiful
While technically non-denominational, The Good and the Beautiful was founded by an LDS member and is extremely popular among Latter-day Saint families. It focuses on high moral character, wholesome literature, and academic excellence. Many families appreciate that the curriculum is easy to use and visually stunning, requiring very little prep work.
Online Schools and Academies
For families who prefer a more structured, teacher-led environment, online academies can be an excellent choice. These programs offer the benefits of homeschooling with the added support of professional instructors and a set schedule.
- Ensign Peak Academy: This is an accredited online private school for students in grades K-12. They offer a full curriculum that integrates the gospel into every subject and provides live online classes.
- Liahona Academy: Focusing on middle and high school students, Liahona provides a distance learning program that is both academically rigorous and spiritually grounded.
- American Heritage Worldwide: This program offers online courses for older students who want to experience the American Heritage School’s unique teaching methods from home.
Subject-Specific LDS Resources
Sometimes you may only want to add a spiritual touch to specific subjects like history or science. There are many supplemental resources available that focus on individual topics from an LDS perspective.
History and Social Studies
Teaching history through a gospel lens often involves looking at the lives of the prophets and the growth of the Church. Resources like Promised Land or The Story of the Prophet Joseph Smith can be used to supplement standard history texts. Many families also use Church history sites and virtual tours as part of their social studies curriculum.
Science and Nature Study
LDS families often look for science resources that acknowledge God as the Creator. While many secular science books are used, parents may supplement them with The Living World series or resources from BYU’s science departments. These help students appreciate the complexity of the natural world as a reflection of divine design.
Support Groups and Community Networks
Homeschooling can sometimes feel isolating, so connecting with others is vital for both parents and students. There are numerous organizations dedicated to supporting LDS homeschoolers through networking, events, and advice.
LDSHE (LDS Home Educators)
LDSHE is a non-profit organization that hosts annual conferences and provides a wealth of online resources. Their conferences are a great way to meet other families, hear from educational experts, and browse curriculum exhibits. They also offer a youth conference that allows teens to socialize with peers who share their values.
Facebook Groups and Online Forums
Social media is a powerful tool for finding local and national support. Groups like “LDS Homeschooling” or state-specific LDS homeschool groups allow parents to ask questions, share lesson ideas, and organize local meetups. These communities are often the best place to find used curriculum sales and local co-op opportunities.
Free and Low-Cost Resources
Homeschooling does not have to be expensive. Many of the best LDS homeschool resources are available for free or at a very low cost through official Church channels and community-shared sites.
- The Church Website (ChurchofJesusChrist.org): The official website offers a massive library of videos, manuals, and activities. The “Come, Follow Me” manuals are particularly useful for daily scripture study and religious education.
- The Gospel Library App: This app is a portable classroom. It contains all the scriptures, lesson manuals, magazines like the Friend and For the Strength of Youth, and media collections that can be used for any subject.
- BYU Independent Study: While some courses have a fee, BYU offers various free and low-cost online courses for high schoolers that can count toward graduation requirements.
- Pinterest: Many LDS homeschool bloggers share free printables, lesson plans, and activity ideas. Searching for “LDS Homeschool Printables” will yield hundreds of free resources.
Tips for Getting Started with LDS Homeschooling
If you are new to homeschooling, the process can feel overwhelming. Following a few simple steps can help you transition smoothly into your new educational routine.
Research Your State Laws: Before selecting a curriculum, ensure you understand the legal requirements for homeschooling in your area. Every state and country has different rules regarding testing, subjects, and reporting.
Set Clear Goals: Determine what you want to achieve each year. Do you want to focus more on spiritual growth, academic excellence, or a specific hobby? Having clear goals will help you choose the resources that best fit your family’s needs.
Start Small: You do not need to buy every resource at once. Start with a core math and language arts program, and then slowly add in history, science, and gospel study as you find your rhythm.
Conclusion
LDS homeschool resources provide a unique opportunity for families to combine academic learning with spiritual growth. By utilizing comprehensive curriculums like The Family School, joining supportive communities like LDSHE, and taking advantage of free Church materials, you can create a personalized and effective educational experience for your children. Remember that the best resource is your own commitment to your child’s success and your faith.
For more helpful guides on education, family life, and home management, explore our other articles on SearchAndHelp.com. Whether you need tips on organizing your home classroom or finding the best online tools for students, we are here to provide simple, reliable answers for your everyday questions.