10 Cool Homeschool Helpers

I am often browsing the internet looking for homeschool items to make school time easier or more organized and will find a product that just makes my jaw drop. Then, I have my favorites that are tried and true.

Most helpful products for homeschooling

1. Chalkboard Contact Paper

Can you imagine? You can turn anything… ANYTHING… into a chalkboard. (Chalkboard Contact Paper, 18″ x 6′ $7.20)

2. Lesson Plan Search Engine

The Lesson Plan Search Engine and Teaching Calendar offers a unique searching function that pulls from 50 different websites. Each of these websites offer FREE resources to help write lesson plans and to create unit studies.

3. Pinterest

No-brainer, right? You can create a board for each child and subject or pin resources to match your upcoming literature or science studies.

Do you follow me on Pinterest?

4. Balance/Wiggle Disc

If you have active learners like I do, they need a way to release some energy while in their chair. A wiggle cushion is perfect for those ADD, ADHD, sensory, and kinesthetic learners. (Altus Athletic Core Balance Disc $24.99)

5. Homeschool Helper App

Homeschool Helper is an amazing application that allows you to batch plan lessons, track attendance and grades, plan your activity calendar and more. Available at iTunes for iOS (iPad and iPhone) and Amazon for Android devices (Kindle Fire) for $4.99.

6. Programmable Crock Pot

A crock pot is awesome for getting your meals together in the morning and then forgetting about them all day. However, a programmable slow cooker gives you even more flexibility. For instance, if you forgot to thaw the ingredients, you can have the cooker set to high for a while and then program it to switch to low. (Hamilton Beach 33967 Set ‘n Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver $49.99)

7. Rotating Art Caddy

I use an old Tool Turn-about from my Pampered Chef days for all of our markers, colored pencils, and scissors. When you are homeschooling multiple children, not only does this save space but arguments. My caddy is similar to the Zenith Small Spaces Rotating Caddy.

8. Open Top File Box

The Open-Top Large File Bins are a perfect way to add some stability and even more organization to a Thirty One Organizing Tote. I use one for storing my All About Learning curriculum, as a portable writing center, and for carrying items back and forth to co-op meetings. (Iris Open-Top Large File Bin $6.02)

9. EMeals

If you are looking for an affordable meal planning service, check into using eMeals.com. You can choose from over 50 plans, including menus for families with dietary issues like gluten intolerance or those wanting a low-carb diet, have the menus emailed to you with a shopping list or access your account through the free eMeals app.

Emeals is a FREE app for iOS devices but a paid subscription is needed to use the service.

10. Kid-Friendly Computer Keyboard

The children spend some time each day on the computer and when the error messages were just about to drive me over the edge, I discovered a computer keyboard that was safe for children to use. The function keys are gone so we no longer run the risk of a distraction from a missed click. (Crayola USB EZ Type Keyboard – 11071-A $14.99)

Have you found a useful product for homeschooling that you want to share?

Drop a comment below.