Sonlight Homeschool Curriculum Review

by Susan Shilliff
(New York)

Flexibility, independent learning, engaging books, and affordability; busy mom of twelve (yes, kids!) finds homeschooling success with Sonlight homeschool curriculum.

About six years ago, the birth of out 12th baby brought some extra challenges to homeschooling. The curriculum I was using wasn't easy or flexible enough to use while taking care of an infant and teaching different grades. Then I saw an advertisement for Sonlight Curriculum. I'm an avid reader so the idea of teaching with living books appealed to me.

One of the benefits of Sonlight is that you can use it to group together children from different ages. I started with Core 3, The Study of American History part 1 for two of my daughters. It was painless. They could read their books by themselves at their own pace. Then we gathered together to do English and I would finish up reading a book aloud. If the baby fussed, I could feed him while I read aloud. When they were reading their books, I was able to help the other children with their subjects.

Another benefit is that it is non-consumable and once a Core is bought it can be used year after year with younger children. The books are so good that our children have re-read the books in other years on their own time. In a family of many children this is very affordable.

Each year, I added a different Core to my library. My favorite one is Core 5, Eastern Hemisphere. During this study we learn about the 10/40 Window where the need is great for sharing the gospel. We spend the year studying the different countries by reading good, living books about the people who live there and also work through a Journey Journal. The Journal takes us more in depth into the countries' culture, geography and government.

Using Sonlight Curriculum with many different ages has simplified our homeschooling. I am now able to teach 3 groups of children instead of teaching each one separately the core classes of history and English.

Susan, thanks for taking a moment out of your busy schedule to share how Sonlight has benefited your family. As a mother to twelve kids, I am sure you have a boatload of money and time-saving tips and ideas! I invite you to come back often to share how you successfully homeschool your large family and still keep your sanity! Many blessings to you. Heather :)