New to Homeschooling? Explore 9 Popular Methods to Teach Your Child

By Janet DeField From The Homeschool Quest

Homeschooling is growing in popularity, and there are many parents like you who are brand new to the idea of homeschooling. There are many different approaches, which are often called, "methods". Each one offers a unique style of learning and it is important to find the one that best fits your teaching style and your child's learning style.  

When I started, I was just like you, exploring all the possibilities for my kids. Over the years, I’ve tried a few approaches, from Classical (which didn’t stick long for us) to Eclectic and Unschooling, and even internships later on. Homeschooling is such a personal journey, and there are so many methods to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. The best part? You can mix, match, or switch methods as your child grows and your family’s needs change.  

With all the info out there, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to walk you through nine popular homeschooling methods: Classical, Unschooling, Charlotte Mason, Waldorf, Montessori, Eclectic, Traditional, Unit Studies, and Online Learning. For each one, I’ll share what it’s about, its benefits, who it works for, how effective it is, and the learning styles it suits best. Let’s find the perfect fit for your family!

Traditional (School-at-Home)

What is it? Traditional homeschooling mimics public or private school, using textbooks, worksheets, and a structured curriculum. Lessons follow a set schedule, covering core subjects like math, reading, and science.

• Benefits: Provides a familiar, structured education.
• Who is it good for? Families who want a school-like setup and clear guidelines. Ideal for new homeschoolers transitioning from traditional schools.
• Effectiveness: Strong for academic consistency and meeting standard benchmarks.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who thrive with routine and textbook-based learning.

Classical Homeschooling

What is it? Classical homeschooling takes inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman education. It splits learning into three stages: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. In the grammar stage, kids memorize facts. In the logic stage, they learn how ideas connect. In the rhetoric stage, they practice expressing their thoughts clearly.

• Benefits: Helps kids think logically and communicate well.
• Who is it good for? Families who like structure and value traditional subjects. Best for experienced homeschoolers who are comfortable with a detailed curriculum.
• Effectiveness: Great for building strong academic and reasoning skills.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who enjoy reading and discussing ideas.

Janet's Note: I started with Classical homeschooling, but with a house full of creatives, this method was too structured for my kids. I wanted homeschooling to be something that was enjoyable for all of us, so I took a different approach.

Charlotte Mason

What is it? The Charlotte Mason method uses engaging books, called "living books," instead of textbooks. It includes short lessons, nature studies, art, music, and narration, where kids retell what they’ve learned.

• Benefits: Sparks curiosity and joy in learning.
• Who is it good for? Families who love books, art, and nature. Best for experienced homeschoolers who can select quality resources and plan activities.
• Effectiveness: Encourages a love for literature and observation skills.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who enjoy stories and creative activities.

Waldorf

What is it? Waldorf education focuses on a child’s developmental stages. It blends art into every subject and delays formal reading and math until later. It emphasizes rhythm, routine, and imagination.

• Benefits: Boosts creativity and imagination.
• Who is it good for? Families who value an artistic, holistic approach. Best for experienced homeschoolers who can create a structured, artistic environment.
• Effectiveness: Nurtures creativity and emotional growth.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who enjoy art and hands-on activities.

Montessori

What is it? Montessori education is child-centered, using special materials for hands-on learning. Kids work at their own pace in a prepared space, focusing on independence and exploration.

• Benefits: Teaches independence and problem-solving.
• Who is it good for? Families who can set up a learning space with specific materials. Good for both new and experienced homeschoolers who value independence.
• Effectiveness: Builds confidence and practical skills.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who like exploring on their own.

Unit Studies

What is it? Unit Studies integrate multiple subjects around a single theme, like dinosaurs or space. Kids explore the topic through reading, projects, and activities, connecting subjects like history, science, and art.

• Benefits: Makes learning engaging and connected.
• Who is it good for? Families who want to dive deep into topics their kids love. Good for both new and experienced homeschoolers who enjoy creative planning.
• Effectiveness: Boosts engagement and retention through thematic learning.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who enjoy projects and exploring one topic in depth.

Janet's Note: Try the Unit Study method with our Space Unit Study!

Online Learning

What is it? Online Learning uses digital platforms for lessons, offering pre-made curricula, videos, or interactive courses. Kids learn through a computer, often with teacher support or self-paced modules.

• Benefits: Convenient and requires less planning.
• Who is it good for? Families who want structure with minimal prep. Great for new homeschoolers or those with busy schedules.
• Effectiveness: Strong for delivering consistent, tech-based education.
• Learning styles: Best for kids comfortable with technology and independent learning.

Janet's Note: Want to try online learning? Check out My Homeschool Village! They are the drop-the-mic homeschool solution that ditches the overwhelm, hooks your kids up with top-notch classes and social clubs, and actually gives you the break you deserve—because burnout is not part of the lesson plan.

Eclectic

What is it? Eclectic homeschooling mixes elements from different methods. Parents tailor the approach to fit their child’s needs, using a curriculum for some subjects and child-led learning for others.

• Benefits: Flexible and adapts to the child’s needs.
• Who is it good for? Families who want to customize their approach. Great for new homeschoolers who are still exploring what works best.
• Effectiveness: Meets individual learning needs effectively.
• Learning styles: Works for kids with varied learning preferences.

Janet's Note: After trying Classical homeschooling, I switched to Eclectic method, to focus on minimal book work, documentaries and a strong focus on art and writing for my creative kids.

Unschooling

What is it? Unschooling lets kids lead their own learning. There are no set lessons or schedules. Children learn through daily life and by exploring their interests, with parents providing support.

• Benefits: Encourages a love for learning and independence.
• Who is it good for? Families who prefer less structure and trust kids to learn on their own. Good for both new and experienced homeschoolers who are open to a flexible approach.
• Effectiveness: Builds creativity and self-motivation.
• Learning styles: Best for kids who like hands-on, self-directed learning.

Janet's Note: I switched from Eclectic homeschooling to unschooling with my youngest three, focusing on building life skills and teaching them how to learn so they could be more self-directed.

Key Takeaways

• Traditional: Perfect for families wanting a familiar, school-like structure.
• Classical: Ideal for families seeking a rigorous, structured academic approach.
• Charlotte Mason: Great for families who value literature, nature, and the arts.
• Waldorf: Suits artistic families who want a holistic, creative education.
• Montessori: Best for parents who can provide a prepared environment for hands-on, independent learning.
• Unit Studies: Ideal for engaging kids through in-depth, theme-based learning.
• Online Learning: Suits families seeking convenient, tech-driven education with minimal prep.
• Eclectic: Offers flexibility for families who want to customize their approach.
• Unschooling: Works well for independent learners who thrive without strict schedules.

Each homeschooling method has its own strengths, and the best choice depends on your child’s learning style and your family’s goals. Whether you prefer a structured approach like Classical or Traditional, a flexible one like Eclectic or Unschooling, or a tech-based option like Online Learning, the key is creating an environment where your child can thrive. You can always adjust or blend methods as you learn what works best for your family.