What Supplies Do I Need to Start Homeschooling?

What Supplies Do I Need to Start Homeschooling?

If you’re brand-new to homeschooling, it’s easy to think you need to buy all the things—a whiteboard, rows of desks, endless manipulatives, a laminator, and a label maker. The truth? You don’t need half of that. Homeschooling can be simple. Here’s a realistic list of the supplies that will actually make your days run smoothly. So what supplies do I need to start homeschooling?

The Absolute Basics

Start here—you can homeschool with just these:

• A solid curriculum – we love the grab-and-go style of The Good and The Beautiful
• Notebooks and pencils – these are our faves: The Best Pencils
• Crayons, markers, scissors, glue sticks – for younger grades especially
• A basket, bin, rolling cart, or shelf – just something to keep materials contained and easy to grab
• Craft box – some sort of crafts supplies for creative stations (if you need ideas or don’t know what this means, grab my free guide HERE)

That’s it. Really.

Supplies That Make Life Easier

Once you’ve got the basics, these extras can help:

• Dry erase board + markers – great for lessons, doodles, and quick reminders
• Binders or folders – keep student work organized without piles everywhere
• A simple planner or daily checklist – doesn’t have to be fancy, just something to keep you on track
• Math manipulatives – counters, cubes, or even a jar of LEGOs work just fine
• Craft supplies – construction paper, tape, playdough, paints—kids learn best when their hands are busy

Tech You May Want to Add (Supplies you need to start homeschooling)

You don’t need to go all-in on technology, but here are a few things that can be worth it:

• Ipad or computer for online lessons and learning apps (definitely worth it in my opinion)
• Headphones so everyone can work without distraction
• Educational apps (like Teach Your Monster to Read) that make practice fun

---

What You Don’t Need

Don’t feel pressured by Instagram-perfect homeschool rooms. You don’t need:

• A laminator
• A giant wall calendar
• An entire schoolroom setup (but if you want one this can be SO much fun!!)
• Expensive supplies you’ll never actually use

Start simple. Add only what genuinely makes your homeschool easier.

So—what supplies do you need to start homeschooling? A curriculum, some basic school supplies, and a way to stay organized. Everything else is optional.

👉 Want a ready-made list so you don’t have to guess? Download my free Simplified Homeschool Checklist—it’s step-by-step help for starting strong without overspending.

And if you’re ready for even more support, the Simplified Homeschool Starter Kit gives you plug-and-play templates and rhythms to save you hours of planning and stress.

Cheering you on,

Katelyn

Need more help? Check out these free resources:

How To Start Homeschooling

How To Do Preschool at Home