“Do a lot more research on the best curriculum and activities to follow along to.” – Homeschool Mom

If you could start homeschooling all over again, what would you do differently?

For many homeschool parents, this question brings both a smile and a sigh. We’ve all been there — standing in the curriculum aisle at a homeschool convention (or scrolling late at night), trying to decide between the math program everyone swears by and the one that might actually fit our child.

Today’s Podcast Gold Nugget comes from a real mom who’s been there too. She shared this piece of wisdom:

“Do a lot more research on the best curriculum and activities to follow along to.”

At first glance, this might sound simple — but behind it is a story we all share: the moment we realize that homeschooling isn’t about finding the perfect curriculum, but the right one for our family.

The truth? Researching your options isn’t just about products or programs. It’s about understanding your child — their learning style, pace, and passions. Sometimes, that means digging deeper than the glossy catalog or trending social media post. It means asking questions like:

• What truly lights my child up when learning?

• What teaching style fits me as a parent?

• Does this program help us stay consistent and joyful, or does it add pressure?

Homeschooling is a long game — and the gold often lies in slowing down long enough to choose wisely.

Listen & Learn:
Felice Gerwitz, veteran homeschool mom and founder of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, shares her own curriculum confessions in Vintage Homeschool Moms Episode 568: Curriculum Confessions – What Worked and What Flopped.

She reminds us that even after 30+ years of homeschooling, she’s still learning what works — and that’s okay. Because homeschooling isn’t about getting it perfect the first time. It’s about growing in grace as you go.

Your Golden Takeaway:

Before you buy your next curriculum, take a deep breath. Pour a cup of coffee. Read reviews, talk to other moms, and pray about what will fit your unique family. Research isn’t wasted time — it’s time invested in peace.

Treasure Hunt Tip:

There’s a golden clue hidden in the show notes for today’s featured episode! Visit the Vintage Homeschool Moms episode page to find a bonus piece of Podcast Gold.

Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!

We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammon, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

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The post 🌟 Day 1 of Podcast Gold: Research Before You Dive In appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.