Top History and Social Studies Homeschool Picks

When planning your homeschool journey, subjects like maths and reading often take centre stage. But don’t overlook history and social studies. These subjects help children understand the world, learn from the past, and think critically about society.

Whether your family loves timelines and maps or prefers hands-on projects and storytelling, choosing the right homeschool history curriculum can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the top history and social studies homeschool picks, covering both structured programmes and flexible, engaging resources.

What to Look for in a Homeschool History Curriculum

Before we get into the top picks, it helps to know what to look for. Here are a few things to consider:

• Teaching style: Do your kids enjoy stories, activities, or textbook-style learning?
• Worldview: Do you prefer secular content or faith-based materials?
• Age and grade level: Some programmes span multiple levels, others are grade-specific.
• Time commitment: How many hours per week can you realistically dedicate?

The best history homeschool program for your family will match your goals, time, and learning preferences.

Top Picks for Homeschool History Curriculum

1. Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer

Best for: Families who love read-alouds and storytelling.

This four-volume series covers world history from ancient times to the modern age. Its narrative style is engaging for kids and adults alike.

• Covers: Ancient to modern history
• Includes: Activity book, tests, audiobooks
• Format: Classical, secular-friendly

Parents love the flexibility—they can read the chapters aloud and do related map work, crafts, or timeline projects.

2. Notgrass History

Best for: All-in-one middle and high school history.

Notgrass combines history, Bible study, and literature in one programme. It can be used as a core subject for older students.

• Covers: American, world, and government history
• Includes: Primary source readings, writing assignments
• Format: Christian-based

It’s a strong option if you’re looking for structure and high school credit.

3. Beautiful Feet Books

Best for: Literature-based learning.

This programme uses real books to teach history and culture, with guides available by grade level and theme (e.g., Ancient History, Early American, etc.).

• Covers: Various historical eras and themes
• Includes: Book lists, guides, timelines
• Format: Christian-based, Charlotte Mason-friendly

This could be a perfect match if your child connects better with characters and stories than facts and dates.

4. Curiosity Chronicles

Best for: Secular, story-driven history for younger grades.

Written as a dialogue between two cartoon characters, this curriculum offers a fun, conversational approach that doesn’t feel like schoolwork.

• Covers: World history, ancient to modern
• Includes: Workbooks, teacher guides, audiobooks
• Format: Secular

It’s lively and engaging, especially for elementary students who like a bit of humour in their lessons.

5. A History of Us by Joy Hakim

Best for: Middle-grade and up, especially visual learners.

This ten-book series offers a detailed look at American history through a vivid, student-friendly lens.

• Covers: American history
• Includes: Rich illustrations, maps, teacher’s guides
• Format: Secular

Pair it with worksheets, writing prompts, or documentaries for a more complete social studies homeschool experience.

Read our blog to learn more about Best Homeschool Math Curricula for 2025.

Social Studies Homeschool Resources Beyond History

Social studies goes beyond history. It includes geography, civics, cultures, and economics. Here are a few favourite picks in those areas:

Geography:

• Evan-Moor Daily Geography Practice: Quick daily lessons by grade level.
• Seterra Geography Games (online): Great for map drills and quizzes.

Civics & Government:

• iCivics.org: Free, interactive online games and lessons about government and citizenship. Created by former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.
• We the People curriculum: For middle and high school students learning about the U.S. Constitution and civic engagement.

Global Cultures:

• Little Passports: Subscription kits that teach geography and culture through hands-on projects.
• Around the World Stories: Audio stories from different countries, designed to teach empathy and global understanding.

Digital Tools and Extras to Enhance Learning

Pairing your curriculum with extra resources can make history come alive. Here are a few online tools to add to your homeschool setup:

• Google Earth: Explore historic locations and landmarks together.
• Crash Course History (YouTube): Engaging animated videos for older learners.
• Museum virtual tours: Visit places like the British Museum or the Smithsonian from your living room.

Check out our Essential Tech Tools for Homeschool Success guide to build more tech into your homeschool day.

Tips for Teaching History at Home

• Use timelines and visuals: Kids often retain more when seeing events mapped out.
• Add documentaries or historical films: These bring major events to life.
• Keep a history journal: Let kids draw, write, or reflect on their learning.
• Connect with real life: Tie lessons to family stories, local landmarks, or current events.

You can also find inspiration in our post on Using Educational Subscriptions in Your Homeschool.

To learn more, read: Choosing a Language Arts Homeschool Curriculum

Wrapping Up: Finding What Works for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all regarding homeschool history curriculum or social studies homeschool options. Some families love the structure of a complete programme, while others prefer to mix and match. The good news is, you don’t have to choose just one. You can explore, adjust, and personalise as you go.

Whatever path you take, the goal is to help your children memorise facts and understand the world, learn from it, and grow into thoughtful citizens.

Ready to Start?

Have a favourite history resource to share? Tried one of these and loved (or didn’t love) it? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your story! And don’t forget to subscribe for more homeschool tips and reviews.