The Best 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum Options in 2024 to Keep Kids Engaged and Excited About Learning

Are you searching for the perfect 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum to keep your child engaged and excited about learning? 

Homeschooling has grown by a whopping 61% over the last decade. Isn’t that crazy? It isn’t surprising to me, though, given how the world has been changing. The largest increase in homeschooling can be seen in the dramatic increase in Black families choosing to homeschool. There was a 41% increase in Black families choosing to homeschool between 2019 and 2020.

When I started homeschooling, I thought, “How hard can it be?” But I quickly found myself drowning in options. It felt like every curriculum was either too expensive, too complicated, or just not the right fit for our family. And I know I’m not alone in this. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out by all the choices, let me say—you’re in the right place.

In this guide, I will walk you through the best 2nd grade homeschool curriculum choices for 2024 and beyond. These aren’t just random picks; these are tried and tested by homeschooling parents like you. 

I have included free and paid options. For each curriculum, I list the price, recommended age range, style, what it covers, how the purchased material is delivered, how it is taught, and the pros and cons. Every family has different needs.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the “perfect” curriculum doesn’t exist. What works for one family might be a complete disaster for another. So, it’s all about finding what fits your child’s learning style, your family’s homeschooling style, and—let’s be honest—your sanity! Whether you’re a stickler for structure or like to go with the flow, there’s something on this list for everyone.

What Should Be Included in a 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum?

When it comes to planning a second grade homeschool curriculum, it’s easy to get caught up in the details, but honestly, the basics are where it’s at. At this stage, it’s all about building on those foundational skills learned in first grade. You’ll want to make sure your second grade curriculum covers the core subjects: 

Math: Focus on solidifying basic arithmetic—addition, subtraction, and even a little intro to multiplication.

Language Arts: Focus on reading fluency and writing simple sentences

Science: Keep it engaging with hands-on activities that spark curiosity

Social Studies: Build on their understanding of communities, cultures, and basic geography

Those are the big four that will keep your child on track.

Don’t forget to include some electives like Art, Music, and Physical Education. These aren’t just extras—they’re essential for a well-rounded education. If your child is interested in something specific, like coding or nature studies, go ahead and weave that in, too. The beauty of homeschooling is that it gives us the freedom to tailor the curriculum to our child’s interests while still covering all the essentials.

How I Decided on the Best 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum Options

For this article, I list various 2nd grade curriculum options, including all-in-one options, online options, and workbook-based options- but also options for specific subjects like Science, Math, and History. “All-In-One” means that every subject, or ALMOST all subjects, are covered. Most of the time, you can supplement math or language arts with another curriculum, workbook, or other resource. 

If you are a working parent or short on time, using a done-for-you, all-in-one curriculum will probably be easiest. These are available online or as boxed curriculum sets and require less time prepping and planning for the parent because they are already done for you. Online options are available for busy families as well.

We are relaxed homeschoolers, but sometimes I just say we are unschoolers. I like to find curriculums and pick and choose what we will use from each for the year. I usually base these choices on my children’s interests. So, my recommendations are products I have used firsthand, things I plan to use in our homeschool in the future, or would consider using myself- if I had more time!

Due to my background as a scientist, I recommend secular resources. If you would like, you can browse my list of the best homeschool secular science curriculum options for every age and budget. I will clarify if any curriculum I recommend has Christian undertones in any of my articles. We are a secular homeschooling family, but I find it easy enough to skip over any parts that do not apply to us.

I also chose to keep it simple so it would not be too overwhelming. As a mom with ADHD, I often get so caught up looking for a curriculum that I get overwhelmed and accomplish nothing, or buy and plan too much and feel defeated and overwhelmed later. The goal of this post is to save you from that feeling of overwhelm.

Now, let’s get started by talking about the FREE 2nd grade homeschool curriculum options!

Free 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

1. Khan Academy

PRICE: Free

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, with specific modules tailored for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Online, Self-Paced, Secular

WHAT IT COVERS: Core subjects for 2nd grade, including Math, Language Arts. Their free app provides additional learning and engaging content for younger children

HOW THE MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Fully online, with lessons available through the Khan Academy website or app. Students can complete lessons independently at their own pace, with progress tracked in real-time.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Instruction is delivered through a combination of videos, interactive exercises, and quizzes.  The platform uses a mastery-based approach, allowing students to focus on areas where they need more practice.

Is Khan Academy the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

 Khan Academy offers so many courses, and they are all free! It would be an excellent option if you’re looking for a flexible, comprehensive, and FREE curriculum that your child can explore at their own pace. It’s especially well-suited for families who are comfortable with online learning and want a resource that covers a wide range of subjects without a hefty price tag. You can access the courses for free, even without an account. You must create a free account if you want to track your student’s progress.

The courses can be a bit dry sometimes. Add quality living books, supplemental reading, activities, or other resources to keep your student engaged. The courses are secular and show various viewpoints, which is important for raising critical thinkers. Khan Academy is a great resource for any homeschool, especially those on a budget.

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2. CK-12 Foundation

PRICE: Free

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, including materials suitable for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Online, Self-Paced, Customizable, Secular

WHAT IT COVERS: Math, Science, Language Arts, Social Studies, and some fun electives like Astronomy, Photography, Engineering, and Health for older children.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Entirely online, accessible via the CK-12 platform or app. Students can work through lessons at their own pace with interactive simulations, videos, and readings.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Lessons are delivered through FlexBooks, which are customizable digital textbooks. Parents can pick and choose modules and add them to their library or assign them to students. Modules may contain videos, diagrams, simulations, interactives, real-world applications, and/or study guides. The lessons show parents which standards they are aligned with. CK-12 is adaptive, adjusting questions for your child and introducing new challenges in a personalized, strategic way.

IS CK-12 The Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

CK-12 is a nonprofit organization that provides free AND customizable K-12 open educational resources. The material is aligned with state standards and is used by over 200,000,000 students worldwide, so you can rest assured that it is a solid 2nd grade homeschool curriculum.

Parents can access an archive of webinars to learn about CK-12 and how to utilize it to its full potential. CK-12 is really impressive, and it is FREE! 

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3. Discovery K12

PRICE: Student Accounts are FREE! If parents want a parent/teacher account, it is $99 annually

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, with content specifically designed for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Online, Self-Paced, Standards-Aligned, Interactive, Secular.

WHAT IT COVERS: Core subjects like Math, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. They also offer exciting elective classes for older students like HTML Coding, Healthy Living, Personal Finance, Business 101, Visual/Performing Arts, Spanish, and Physical Education.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Online in Modules.  Content includes interactive lessons, videos, and practice exercises. Students can work independently, with progress tracked automatically.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Lessons are structured with videos, readings, and interactive activities. The platform offers personalized learning paths based on student progress and tracks mastery of concepts through regular quizzes and assessments. Each grade level contains 36 weeks of STEM projects and hands-on activities using simple items you probably already have around the house. There is also a library with over 150 classic literature e-books for language arts and a collection of historical documents and primary resources for social studies. 

Is DK12 the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

 Discovery K12 (DK12) is a free online educational platform that can be used as a main curriculum for homeschooling. If desired, you can later upgrade to a parent/teacher account for $99 a year.
Parent-teacher accounts include grade books, quiz/test scores, answer keys, attendance tracking, reading logs, scope and sequence, help with transcripts and diplomas, certificates of completion, and 24-hour support. Parents can pick and choose what their child will be learning. If you need to have math in a certain grade level but language arts in another grade, you can do so. This would be a great choice for any homeschool- and it’s FREE!

One bonus is you can get a student ID card through Discovery K12. This allows you to access student discounts online or at museums and more. Discovery K12 is a robust educational platform and a great choice for homeschooling families, even without paying for the parent account.

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Paid Online 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

4. IXL

PRICE: Single Subject is $9.95 monthly, and you can choose from math OR language arts. Their Combo Package is $15.95 monthly and includes math AND language arts. The Core Subjects package is $19.95 monthly and includes math, language arts, science, and social studies. You can also add Spanish to any package option for an extra $5 monthly. Each additional child is only an extra $4 monthly!

AGE RANGE: Pre K – 12th Grade

STYLE: Online, Standards-aligned, Secular

WHAT IT COVERS: Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Online in modules

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Questions automatically adapt to your student’s level and track their progress. There are video tutorials throughout. Here is a short video of what the interface looks like for students.

Is IXL the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

IXL is a comprehensive curriculum aligned with state or provincial standards. You can specify your location when you set up your account. The website is easy to navigate and has many helpful tutorials for parents to get you started. IXL uses adaptive learning, using insights from student work to create personalized recommendations to meet students exactly where they are, which helps them progress faster and learn concepts more deeply. While IXL offers all subjects, their specialty is math.
Subscriptions include planning and tracking of students. Parents can choose daily or weekly email reports on their student’s progress. There are detailed reports to help parents see what topics their student is struggling with and which skills they have mastered. IXL would be a great choice for families looking for an online second-grade curriculum that is easy to implement.

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5. Time4Learning

PRICE: $29.95 per month for K-5, $39.95 per month for 6-12, with a 30% discount for additional students. They also offer 10% off annual memberships with code ANNUAL10.

AGE RANGE: PreK – 12th Grade

STYLE: Online, Standards-aligned, Self-paced, Secular

WHAT IS COVERS: Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Electives

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Online in modules

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Course designs vary by subject and grade level, incorporating videos, images, text, and interactive activities.  Students can review and retake lessons as needed, providing flexibility not found in some other online programs. Lessons include computer graphics, images, and diagrams, followed by summaries, practice questions, and quizzes. Time4Learning offers customizable lesson plans for parents, who can also access student records and set up schedules. Parents can choose grade-level courses or customize lessons based on their child’s needs, with options for special configurations if required (ex: your child is in 2th grade but needs 1st grade math).

Is Time4Learning the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Time4Learning is a trusted online curriculum that covers PreK – 12th grade in language arts, science, math, social studies, and electives. The parent support features give parents more control over their child’s education. Many homeschoolers use Time4Learning as a main curriculum, a supplement for certain subjects, or a summer learning opportunity. Parents do not need to use the planning feature if they do not want to. Time4Learning claims to have tools that support all instructional methods and styles.

Time4Learning is used at many accredited schools across the United States. It is educationally rigorous, but it is a curriculum provider, not an accredited school, which means it does not issue report cards or diplomas. The parent is responsible for tracking and making transcripts for high school students. 

Overall, Time4Learning is an excellent choice for homeschooling 2nd grade. It is especially great for busy or working parents. The curriculum requires less parental involvement, which develops children’s skills to learn more independently. We are going to try out Time4Learning in our homeschool this year. I will update you later and share our experience with it!

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6. MiaAcademy

PRICE: $36 monthly. Financial aid and sibling discounts are available.

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th Grade

STYLE: Online, Accredited, Standards-aligned, Secular- but they do have optional Bible Study elective add-ons for both Jewish and Christian families.

WHAT IT COVERS: Math, Social Studies, Science, Language Arts, and Electives such as Music, Art, Life Skills, and several Foreign Languages, including American Sign Language. 

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Online in modules

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Lessons include online exercises, video instruction, games, and activities such as printable worksheets and science experiments. They are divided into three parts: the Teaching section, which consists of videos. Then, there are practice questions, and finally, there is the assessment. 

Is Miacademy the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Mia Academy and MiaPrep Online High School are both accredited by the Western Association for Schools and Colleges (WASC) and can be used as a main curriculum, depending on your state’s laws. Mia Prep Online High School IS permitted to award diplomas and course credits to high schoolers.

MiaAcademy can be used in a relaxed homeschooling environment as well. A parent account is included in the subscription. Parents can choose which lessons and activities children complete and which grade level their child is ready for in each subject. This makes creating a unique, personalized educational experience for your 2nd grader easy. Overall, I would say that Miacademy is a great choice for families looking for a comprehensive online curriculum that requires less time planning from the parent.

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7. Kids Discover

PRICE: Subscription-based, for Homeschoolers there are two options, priced at either $4 per month or $7 per month

AGE RANGE: Grades 1 – 8, with content appropriate for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Online, Interactive, Secular

WHAT IT COVERS: Social Studies, Science, and general knowledge topics such as History, Geography, Earth Science, and the human body.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Through an online platform, which features interactive reading, videos, and visuals. Students explore topics through digital magazines, infographics, and interactive content.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Lessons are structured around thematic units, encouraging exploration and curiosity. It combines reading comprehension with interactive activities to deepen understanding.

Is Kids Discover the 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Kids Discover is a fantastic resource if you’re looking to enrich your 2nd grader’s knowledge in Social Studies and Science with high-quality, interactive content. It’s particularly well-suited for curious kids who enjoy exploring topics in-depth and learning visually. However, since it focuses on specific subjects, you may want to pair it with a math or language arts curriculum to cover all academic areas.

Kids Discover also has magazines available for purchase that cover a variety of subjects. I remember having a Kids Discover subscription as a kid back in the 90s, and I loved it! I am glad to see they are still offering this product.

They also offer a helpful tool to find content that aligns with your state standards.

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8. BrainPop

PRICE: Subscription-based, ranging from $119 – $430 per year, depending on the options chosen.

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, with content suitable for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Online, Interactive Videos and Quizzes, Self-Paced, Secular.

WHAT IT COVERS: Wide range of subjects including Math, Science, Social Studies, English, Art, Music, Health, and Technology.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Delivered through the BrainPop website and app, featuring animated videos, interactive quizzes, and games. Content is organized into short, engaging videos followed by activities to reinforce learning.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Lessons are taught through animated characters that explain concepts in a fun and relatable way. It includes follow-up quizzes, games, and projects to help solidify understanding.

Is BrainPop the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

BrainPop is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a fun, engaging way to supplement your 2nd grader’s education with interactive videos and activities across various subjects. Relaxed homeschooling families may find BrainPop to be a good fit as a main curriculum, especially in the younger grades. BrainPop is used in classrooms around the US, so you can rest assured that it is a high-quality resource for your second grader.

It’s particularly well-suited for visual and auditory learners who enjoy learning through animation and interactive content. However, since it’s technically not a full curriculum, some families may feel better using it alongside other educational resources. If budget is a concern, exploring the free content or seeking discounts might be helpful.

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All-In-One 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

9. Blossom and Root

PRICE: $6 – $162, depending on the options chosen

AGE RANGE: Preschool – 5th grade, with a specific curriculum for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Hands-on, Nature-Based, Charlotte Mason Inspired, Eclectic, Relaxed, Secular.

WHAT IT COVERS: Core subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Strong emphasis on science and nature study, but also integrates art and creative hands-on activities.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: You will receive PDF files, which include a 36-week parent guide for lessons, a student notebook, a clickable links list, scavenger hunts, and other helpful resources. 

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: The Elementary levels include a full year of literature-based language arts, nature studies, art studies, and hands-on projects. The curriculum is adaptable and designed to be taught to children of multiple ages so it can be used with the whole family if you have children close in age. 

There are also Book Seeds, which are unit studies that can be purchased individually. Each Book Seed is inspired by a specific children’s book. Each issue includes STEM activities, nature studies, art projects, recipes, optional copywork, and language arts components. 

Is Blossom and Root the Right 2nd Grade Curriculum for Your Family?

Blossom and Root was started by Kristina, a homeschooling mother of two and former kindergarten teacher. Her approach is influenced by Charlotte Mason’s teachings, the Waldorf philosophy, and her love of nature. On her website, Blossom and Root is described as a flexible, creative, hands-on, secular curriculum that focuses on nature, literature, STEM, and art. One unique component is the nature study called A Garden of My Own, which is part of the fourth grade curriculum but can also be bought individually. This would be a great way to get the kids outside and moving!

The best feature of Blossom and Root is its flexibility. Families can freely explore topics as deeply as they want and choose to skip certain activities or books they don’t like. There are suggestions for different grade levels, making it a great choice for families with children close in age because you can teach everyone together. Blossom and Root makes it easy to create a truly unique educational experience for your child. All of Blossom and Root’s curriculum integrates seamlessly with a relaxed homeschooling style and fits well with unschooling families because it is easy to adapt to any age or learning style.

We use Blossom and Root in our homeschool and love it. The curriculum teaches students through fun activities, and the book recommendations are great, too. I highly recommend this curriculum! If you are interested in other nature-based options, check out this list of the best nature-based homeschool curriculum choices.

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10. Torchlight

PRICE: $8-$76, ranging from unit studies to complete, year-long curriculums

AGE RANGE: Pre-K – 5th grade, with a specific curriculum for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Secular, Eclectic, Literature-Based, Diverse and Inclusive, Socratic Method

WHAT IT COVERS: This curriculum is designed to be interdisciplinary, covering literature, poetry, vocabulary, social studies, geography, science, arts, and more. They even have individual studies covering the history of rock and roll and one covering finance and responsible consumerism!

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Available as digital downloads (PDFs) with weekly lesson plans, book lists, and activity guides. It requires the purchase of additional books to fully implement the curriculum, but you can usually find the books at your local library.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Parents read the suggested books aloud to their children. The material includes hands-on learning, game-schooling, car-schooling options, and even bedtime story recommendations to make homeschooling a lifestyle. It caters to a wide variety of learning styles and focuses on a holistic education that nurtures the whole child with an emphasis on critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness.

Is Torchlight the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Torchlight is a great fit for families who are passionate about providing a well-rounded, literature-rich education that emphasizes critical thinking, emotional development, and cultural awareness. It’s perfect for parents who enjoy engaging in deep discussions with their children and who value a curriculum that goes beyond traditional academics to nurture the whole child. 

My favorite thing about Torchlight is that it is based on the Socratic Method. Socrates believed students should not be fed answers, but instead, they should be taught how to ask questions. This enables us to raise true critical thinkers with the confidence and ability to answer any question and solve any problem later in life.

Torchlight ensures its material is diverse, representing voices from all races, genders, nationalities, and perspectives. We have used Torchlight in the past, and we have loved the book recommendations. Torchlight states that their curriculum is made so that the adult learns alongside their children. I can tell you from firsthand experience that this statement is true! That is one of the things that makes this curriculum so much fun for the whole family. We are using Torchlight as our main curriculum this year. I highly recommend this curriculum!

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11. Build Your Library (BYL)

PRICE: $8 for unit studies, $30-$60 for the full-year curriculum, depending on the grade level

PRICE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, with a specific curriculum for 2nd graders.

STYLE: Secular, Literature-Based, Charlotte Mason-Inspired

WHAT IT COVERS: Core subjects, including Language Arts, History, Science, and Art. Heavy emphasis on reading, literature, and history. Incorporates nature study and hands-on activities.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Available as digital downloads (PDFs) with detailed lesson plans, book lists, and activity suggestions. 

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Parents read the suggested books aloud to their children in the younger grades. Lessons are centered around quality literature and living books, promoting deep learning through reading. The material incorporates Charlotte Mason-style narration, copywork, and memory work. It also includes art studies with fun hands-on projects that tie into the historical time period being studied.  It does require the purchase of additional books and resources to complete the curriculum, or you can see if your local library has the books needed. Nature study and art are integrated to provide a well-rounded education.

Is Build Your Library the Right 2nd Grade Curriculum for Your Family?

Build Your Library is flexible and perfect for families who are passionate about literature and want to immerse their 2nd grader in a reading-rich, history-focused curriculum. It’s ideal for parents who appreciate the Charlotte Mason philosophy and want to foster a deep love of learning through high-quality literature and hands-on projects.

Build Your Library was developed by Emily Cook, a mother who has homeschooled her four children for over 20 years. There are full-year options as well as individual unit studies. The price is reasonable, and the curriculum outlines a schedule to keep parents and students on track. We have used the book suggestions in our homeschool. Emily has come up with great reading lists for every age!

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12. Oak Meadow

PRICE: The Oak Meadow 2nd grade curriculum package is priced at approximately $450 for the full year, which includes the main lesson book and all necessary materials. If you choose to enroll in their accredited distance learning school, the cost is higher, starting at around $1,800 per year. There is a sibling discount and a military discount. Enrollments have tuition assistance in the form of payment plans.

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 12th grade, with a specific curriculum tailored to 2nd graders.

STYLE: Boxed curriculum, Literature-based, Secular, Charlotte Mason, Waldorf Inspired

WHAT IT COVERS: The 2nd grade curriculum covers essential subjects such as Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science. It includes a strong emphasis on art, music, and nature study. 

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Materials are delivered through a combination of printed lesson books, supplementary books, and hands-on activity guides. The curriculum is designed for at-home learning, with detailed weekly lesson plans that guide parents through each subject. Oak Meadow also offers an online option for families who enroll in their accredited school, including additional support and guidance from experienced teachers.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Each curriculum coursebook has 36 weekly lesson plans. The lessons have a variety of assignments, such as hands-on activities and readings. The curriculum is very structured, but parents can add or remove material or assignments if desired. Parents can access assignments, planners, material lists, and learning assessments to track their child’s progress. The curriculum includes a mix of storytelling, hands-on projects, and nature exploration, allowing students to learn through experience and play. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in guiding their child’s learning, tailoring the pace and depth of study to their child’s needs.

Is Oak Meadow the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Oak Meadow is an excellent fit for families who value a Waldorf-inspired, child-centered, holistic approach to education and want a curriculum that nurtures the whole child. It’s particularly well-suited for parents who are comfortable taking an active role in their child’s education and appreciate a flexible, creative curriculum that integrates academic learning with art and nature. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable or less time-intensive option, you may need to consider another curriculum.

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Workbook-Based 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

13. Evan-Moor Workbooks and Teacher Guides

PRICE: $25 – $350, depending on what products are chosen

AGE RANGE: Pre-K – 6th grade

STYLE: Secular, Open-and-Go, Workbook-based

WHAT IT COVERS: Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Writing. There is a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving through various interactive activities.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Materials are delivered through physical workbooks, eBooks, and/or printable resources, which can be purchased individually or as a bundle. You can purchase 2nd grade workbooks individually or opt to purchase the 2nd grade homeschool bundle.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Evan-Moor’s curriculum is straightforward, with clear, concise instructions and repetitive practice to reinforce learning. Each workbook or activity book is designed to focus on specific skills, allowing students to build a strong foundation in the core subjects. The curriculum encourages regular practice and provides plenty of opportunities for review, ensuring that students master each concept before moving on to the next. The lessons are designed to be completed independently by the student, although they benefit from some parental guidance and instruction, especially for younger learners.

Is Evan-Moor the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Evan Moore is a trusted name in the educational world. Their workbooks are used in schools across the US. They have a wide variety of material, including their Skill Sharpener series that gives children extra practice and review with certain concepts. This would be great over summer break or homeschooling while traveling. Their History Pockets are fun too! We have the Ancient Civilizations one. There are fun projects in the workbooks for hands-on learners.

Evan Moore would be a great choice for families looking for an easy way to cover all subjects. It would be a great option for working parents or parents who are short on time and cannot spend hours planning, researching, and implementing. Evan Moore might be the right choice for your family if you want an open-and-go curriculum. 

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14. Explode the Code

PRICE: Individual workbooks are priced around $10 each. A full year’s curriculum is $60-$80, depending on the level chosen.

AGE RANGE: Kindergarten – 4th grade. For 2nd graders, it’s particularly well-suited as a phonics reinforcement program or for those who need extra practice with reading fundamentals.

STYLE: Secular, Orton-Gillingham-based, Charlotte Mason-Inspired, Eclectic

WHAT IT COVERS: The program focuses on phonics, reading, spelling, and vocabulary. Explode the Code is designed to develop students’ ability to decode words through systematic phonics instruction. It covers everything from basic consonant and vowel sounds to more complex blends and digraphs, providing a solid foundation in reading and spelling.

HOW THE PURCHASED MATERIAL IS DELIVERED: Materials are delivered through physical workbooks, each filled with various exercises and activities that reinforce phonics skills. There are also teacher guides available to help parents understand how to effectively teach and assess each lesson.

HOW THE MATERIAL IS TAUGHT: Explode the Code is taught through a series of workbooks that students complete independently or with minimal guidance from parents. Each workbook includes a variety of phonics exercises, such as matching, writing, and reading activities that help reinforce specific phonics rules. The workbooks are straightforward, with simple, black-and-white illustrations. The program is designed to be incremental, with each workbook building on the skills learned in the previous one. It’s a highly structured and systematic approach to phonics instruction.

Is Explode the Code the Right 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum for Your Family?

Explode the Code is an excellent choice for families looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to phonics instruction. It’s particularly well-suited for 2nd graders who need additional reading and spelling reinforcement or those who thrive on routine and repetition. The affordability and ease of use make it a popular choice among homeschoolers. However, if your child prefers more colorful, interactive materials, you may want to supplement this program with other resources to keep them engaged.

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Math Curriculum for 2nd Grade Homeschool

Choosing the right math curriculum for second grade is an opportunity to build a solid foundation in number sense, addition, subtraction, and problem-solving skills. Below, I’ve highlighted a few of my top picks. For more detailed reviews of Homeschool Math Curriculum Options, check out my article on the best 10+ Homeschool Math Curriculum Options to Inspire a Love of Math.

15. RightStart Math

RightStart Math is an excellent choice for families who value a hands-on, manipulative-based approach to math education. RightStart Math uses a spiral approach, where concepts are introduced, revisited, and expanded upon throughout the course. This method ensures that students understand each topic deeply, as they are given multiple opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in different contexts. The curriculum emphasizes active learning, with students frequently using manipulatives to explore mathematical ideas. Lessons are designed to be short and focused, typically lasting around 20-30 minutes, which helps maintain students’ attention and enthusiasm for math. I use this curriculum with my oldest child, and we have both enjoyed it.

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16. Beast Academy

Beast Academy is an excellent choice for families looking for a rigorous, engaging math curriculum that challenges students to think critically. The program’s unique approach, using comic book-style lessons and a mix of physical and digital materials, makes math fun and exciting for young learners. It’s particularly well-suited for gifted students or those who are enthusiastic about math and ready to tackle advanced concepts. However, the challenging nature of the material may require more parental involvement, especially for younger students. If your 2nd grader thrives on challenges and enjoys a creative approach to learning, Beast Academy could be a great fit for your homeschool.

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17. Wild Math

Wild Math is an excellent choice for families who value outdoor education and experiential learning. If your 2nd grader enjoys being outside and you’re looking for a curriculum that integrates math with nature, Wild Math could be a perfect fit. The hands-on activities and flexible structure make it ideal for families who want to break away from traditional textbook-based learning. However, the curriculum requires a fair amount of parental involvement and creativity to implement effectively, and you may need to supplement it with additional resources to ensure complete coverage of math standards. If you’re seeking a math curriculum that nurtures a love of learning and connects math to the natural world, Wild Math offers a unique and enriching experience. The cost is relatively low compared to other math programs, making it an affordable option for families. We use Wild Math in our homeschool. I find that even though the curriculum is divided into grade levels, I can still teach all three of my children important math concepts simultaneously.

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Language Arts 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

When selecting a language arts curriculum for second grade, it’s important to find one that nurtures reading, writing, and comprehension skills through engaging, age-appropriate activities. I’ve provided a quick summary of some of my favorite choices below. For more detailed reviews, I will write a future article on the best secular language arts curriculum choices for homeschooling.

18. BraveWriter

Brave Writer emphasizes a relaxed, discussion-based approach to teaching. Lessons encourage students to engage in meaningful conversations about their writing, focusing on exploring ideas and developing a personal voice. Parents act as facilitators, guiding their children through writing projects a9d helping them refine their skills through practice, feedback, and revision. Brave Writer’s unique approach integrates writing with other subjects, encouraging students to express their ideas through various writing projects and activities. The curriculum is designed to be adaptable, allowing parents to tailor lessons to their child’s interests and needs.

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19. All About Reading & All About Spelling

All About Reading and All About Spelling are taught using a multisensory approach, incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities. It is based on the Orton-Gillingham approach, and is a great choice for dyslexic students. Lessons in both programs are designed to be incremental, building on previously learned skills with plenty of review to ensure mastery. Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children through the lessons, which are structured yet flexible enough to adapt to the individual pace and needs of the student.

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20. Dash into Learning

Dash into Learning is a wonderful choice for families who want to foster a love of reading in their young children through a gentle, literature-based approach. It’s especially suited for parents who appreciate the Charlotte Mason method or a relaxed, eclectic homeschooling style. Dash into Learning uses a gentle, literature-based approach to teaching reading. The lessons are designed to be short and sweet, allowing children to progress at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed. Parents are encouraged to read with their children, discuss the stories, and use the phonics activities to reinforce what has been learned.

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21. Grammaropolis

Grammaropolis is a fantastic choice for parents seeking to make grammar fun and accessible for their 2nd graders. Its interactive and story-based approach is particularly well-suited for young learners who enjoy visual and auditory learning. The program’s engaging format will likely hold the attention of kids who might otherwise find grammar dry or challenging. However, for students who need more in-depth grammar instruction, you might want to use Grammaropolis as a supplementary resource rather than your primary grammar curriculum.

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Science Curriculum for 2nd Grade Homeschool

A good science curriculum is an essential part of a well-rounded education for second-grade homeschoolers, fostering curiosity and critical thinking skills at a young age.

Here is a summarized list of SOME of my recommendations. For a full list and complete reviews, visit this article on the best secular science curriculum for homeschooling, offering carefully vetted options that encourage exploration and a love for learning.

22. Real Science Odyssey (RSO)

Real Science Odyssey is an excellent choice for homeschooling families who value hands-on, inquiry-based learning and want to foster a love of science in their children. Its engaging experiments and comprehensive coverage of scientific topics make it ideal for encouraging critical thinking and exploration. However, it may require significant preparation time and parent involvement, as well as sourcing additional materials for experiments. Real Science Odyssey offers a thorough and enjoyable secular science curriculum if you are able to invest the time and resources.

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23. Scientific Connections Through Inquiry (SCI)

Scientific Connections Through Inquiry is an excellent choice for families who value an inquiry-based, hands-on approach to science education. The curriculum fits well with Classical, Charlotte Mason, and Eclectic homeschooling styles. The emphasis on critical thinking and the scientific method helps students develop important skills that will serve them well in all areas of learning. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing parents to tailor the lessons to their child’s interests and learning pace.

While the curriculum requires some parental involvement, especially in guiding experiments, the detailed lesson plans and engaging activities make it manageable and rewarding. If you’re looking for a secular, inquiry-based science curriculum that will inspire a love of learning in your child, Scientific Connections Through Inquiry is a strong option to consider.

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24. Mystery Science

Mystery Science is a great choice for homeschooling families looking for an engaging, hands-on science curriculum emphasizing inquiry-based learning. Its interactive videos, simple experiments, and real-world questions make science accessible and fun. The online subscription model offers affordability and convenience. However, it may not provide as much depth for more advanced topics as a complete curriculum, and access is limited to an online platform. Mystery Science would be an excellent fit for your family if you value an engaging and user-friendly secular science curriculum that makes learning enjoyable.

Mystery Science is aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), ensuring that the content is both rigorous and relevant. While it does require some parental involvement, the lessons are well-organized and easy to follow, making it a manageable option for busy homeschooling families. If you want a curriculum that not only teaches scientific concepts but also fosters a love of discovery and critical thinking, Mystery Science is a fantastic option to consider

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25. Generation Genius

Generation Genius is an excellent option if you’re looking for a dynamic, video-based science curriculum that brings scientific concepts to life. Its engaging approach is perfect for kids who enjoy learning through multimedia and interactive activities. The alignment with NGSS ensures that the content is educationally sound and up-to-date. However, while it’s a fantastic tool for capturing interest and providing a broad understanding of science topics, you may need to supplement it with additional resources for deeper exploration. Its subscription cost is also something to consider, but for many, the value of the engaging content justifies the price.

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History Curriculum for 2nd Grade Homeschool

Selecting a history curriculum for second grade sparks curiosity about the past while teaching important concepts like timelines, cultures, and historical events.

I’ve provided a brief overview of some of my favorite history programs below, but for more detailed insights, don’t miss this article on the best secular history curriculum for homeschooling.

26. History Quest

History Quest is an excellent choice for families who want to introduce their children to world history through engaging stories and interactive activities. Children learn about history and other cultures through storytelling, hands-on creative activities, and map work. The narrative style makes complex historical concepts accessible to young learners. It’s highly flexible and can be adapted to suit your child’s learning style or taught family style if you have multiple children close in age. If you’re looking for a history curriculum that’s both educational and enjoyable, History Quest is a fantastic option.

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27. Curiosity Chronicles

Curiosity Chronicles writes their books as a back-and-forth dialogue between the two main characters, Ted and Mona. Presenting history in a dialogue-based format allows the main characters to simplify complex ideas piece by piece. This makes the material easier to understand for students and models how to discuss complex concepts

The curriculum uses a variety of resources to keep children engaged, including living books. It appeals to various learning styles and can be taught family style if you have children close in age. History is taught from a global perspective and includes the voices of people and groups who are usually left out of traditional history books. The curriculum covers cultural, artistic, and scientific history. Curiosity Chronicles is a great choice to provide your second grader with a well-rounded and fun history education.

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Additional Resources for 2nd Grade Homeschool

Here are some of my other favorite resources for second grade:

Handwriting without Tears

Handwriting Without Tears is a user-friendly program designed to make learning handwriting easy and fun. Its approach combines engaging activities with a clear, structured progression, helping 2nd graders improve their penmanship through multisensory techniques. The curriculum features workbook pages, interactive materials, and teacher resources that support both print or cursive writing. With a focus on building proper habits and confidence, it’s an effective tool for enhancing handwriting skills in a homeschool setting.

Teach Your Monster How To Read

Teach Your Monster How to Read is an interactive online program designed to boost early reading skills. The Usborne Foundation has provided this free website as an act of charity to help children learn to read. Through engaging games and activities, it supports phonics, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. The playful interface keeps kids motivated as they progress through different stages of reading development. The game is free to play on a desktop or laptop, but to be able to use it on a tablet or phone you will have to pay. 

ABCYa!

ABCYa! offers a range of educational games and activities tailored for young learners. Its interactive platform covers subjects like math, language arts, and more, making learning fun and engaging for 2nd graders. With colorful graphics and an intuitive design, it helps reinforce key concepts through play. It is FREE to play on a desktop or laptop, but to be able to access it from a tablet, you will have to pay a yearly subscription fee. ABCYa! Is used in public schools around the US, so you can rest assured that it is a quality resource. Their website is also a fun way to add Christmas learning to your homeschool. They have many games dedicated to adding learning to your holiday season.

BrainQuest Workbooks and Card Decks

BrainQuest Workbooks and Card Decks are excellent supplemental resources appropriate for 2nd-grade homeschoolers. The colorful workbooks offer engaging, grade-specific exercises across core subjects like math, reading, writing, and science, helping children build a strong academic foundation. Meanwhile, the portable card decks provide quiz-style questions that reinforce learning in a fun, interactive way, making them perfect for on-the-go practice or quick review sessions.

Critical Thinking Co

The Critical Thinking Co. offers a variety of educational resources designed to enhance problem-solving and analytical skills across multiple subjects. Their workbooks and software focus on developing critical thinking through engaging activities that go beyond rote memorization. Covering subjects like math, reading, writing, science, social studies, and critical thinking, these materials encourage students to think deeply and apply logic to real-world situations. Critical Thinking Co. products are valuable tools for building a strong foundation in both academic skills and critical thinking, making learning both challenging and rewarding.

Smithsonian Learning Lab

The Smithsonian Learning Lab provides access to a vast collection of digital resources, including images, videos, and documents from the Smithsonian’s museums and research centers. It offers interactive tools for exploring a wide range of subjects, from history to science. The platform allows users to create and share custom collections, fostering curiosity and deeper understanding through engaging, real-world materials.

National Geographic Kids

National Geographic Kids delivers engaging content that sparks curiosity about the world. There are articles, videos, and interactive features on animals, science, and geography. The user-friendly interface and captivating visuals make learning about nature and the planet both fun and educational. There are magazine subscriptions, videos, and other engaging content as well.

Prodigy Math

Prodigy is an adaptive math platform that makes learning fun through interactive, game-based lessons. It combines educational content with engaging gameplay to reinforce math skills. The platform adjusts to each student’s level, offering personalized challenges and rewards that keep kids motivated and help track their progress effectively. The game is FREE to play, but if you want more rewards and to track progress for your child, you can switch to a paid account.

Cool Math Games

Cool Math Games is a FREE online platform offering a variety of fun, educational games that reinforce math skills through interactive play. For 2nd graders, it can be a valuable tool for practicing core concepts in an engaging and pressure-free environment. The colorful, game-based format helps make math enjoyable and accessible, offering homeschoolers a playful way to build confidence and reinforce learning.

Hooked on Phonics and Hooked on Spelling

Hooked on Phonics and Hooked on Spelling are complementary programs designed to strengthen reading and spelling skills for 2nd grade homeschoolers. Hooked on Phonics uses a systematic approach to phonics, starting with letter sounds and progressing to more complex patterns and sight words, featuring engaging videos, interactive games, and workbooks.

Honest History Magazine

Honest History Magazine is a beautifully illustrated, educational magazine designed to make history engaging and accessible for young learners. Each issue focuses on different historical events, figures, and themes, offering in-depth stories, activities, and projects that bring history to life. For a more relaxed history education in the younger grades, Honest History magazines would be a great way to foster a love of history.

Subscription Boxes

Incorporating a subscription box to your homeschool adds fun, hands-on learning delivered right to your doorstep. There are so many options covering science, history, art, cooking, baking, and more! The latest subscription box we tried in our homeschool was from Kiwi Co., and it was a fun way to get some hands-on STEM learning. Try a few different options and find the right fit for your family.

How to Choose the Best 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

Choosing the best 2nd grade homeschool curriculum can feel like a daunting task, but with a bit of guidance, you can homeschool your child with ease.

Considering your child’s learning style and interests. Are they visual learners who benefit from interactive lessons and videos? Or do they prefer hands-on activities and projects? Identifying these preferences will help you select a curriculum that keeps them engaged and excited about learning.

Think about your family’s educational goals and values. If you prioritize a strong foundation in core subjects like math and reading, look for curriculums that offer comprehensive coverage and regular assessments. Explore options that integrate subjects through themed units or project-based learning for a more relaxed approach.

Don’t forget to consider the curriculum’s structure and parental involvement. Some curriculums provide detailed lesson plans and teacher guides, while others might require more preparation on your part. Assess how much time you can dedicate to planning and whether you need a curriculum with built-in resources and step-by-step instructions.

Review the costs involved. While some curriculums are free or low-cost, others may require a significant investment. Balance your budget with the quality and comprehensiveness of the curriculum.

Final Thoughts: 2nd Grade Homeschool Curriculum

Finding the perfect 2nd grade homeschool curriculum can transform home education from a mundane routine to an exciting adventure. By evaluating your child’s learning style, educational goals, and your family’s needs, you can select a curriculum that not only meets academic standards but also inspires a love of learning.

Whether you lean towards interactive online programs, engaging hands-on projects, or comprehensive print-based materials, there’s a curriculum out there that’s just right for your family. If none of these options work for you, you may want to consider homeschooling with unit studies.

Don’t be afraid to take your time exploring different options and considering what will work best for your unique situation. If a curriculum is not working for your family, SWITCH! Do not force yourself or your children to continue with a curriculum that is not enjoyable. This will just make everyone irritable and make learning feel like a chore.

Try to keep yourself motivated and inspired along your family’s homeschooling journey by staying connected with your support system, regularly reading homeschooling books that inspire you, and visiting online homeschooling websites or communities.

If you have any questions about specific curriculums or need further guidance, please comment below! I would love to hear about your experiences and help you find the perfect fit for your homeschooling journey.

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