If your child struggles with learning, homeschooling might be the very best thing for them. But choosing the right curriculum requires more thought and care.

We have talked to hundreds of moms over the years who started homeschooling because traditional school was not working for their child. Something was being missed. Something was falling through the cracks. They knew their child was capable of more than what was being demanded of them.

Homeschooling gives you the flexibility to meet that child where they are. Here is how to choose curriculum that actually works for a struggling learner.

First: Identify the Struggle

Struggling learner is a broad category. Before choosing curriculum, identify specifically where the struggle lies:

• Reading and decoding (possible dyslexia or phonological processing differences)
• Reading comprehension (understanding what is read)
• Math computation (possible dyscalculia)
• Math reasoning and word problems
• Writing (including dysgraphia)
• Attention and focus (ADHD)
• Processing speed
• General anxiety that interferes with learning

The curriculum that works for a child with dyslexia is different from the one that works for a child with ADHD. One size does not fit all here.

For Reading Struggles: Orton-Gillingham Based Programs

If your child struggles to read, look for programs rooted in the Orton-Gillingham approach, which is the gold standard for teaching struggling readers. Key features:

• Multisensory (seeing, hearing, and touching letters and sounds)
• Explicit and systematic phonics instruction
• Lots of repetition and review
• Mastery-based (no moving forward until the current concept is solid)

For Attention and Focus: Structure and Movement

Children with ADHD or attention challenges often thrive with:

• Shorter lessons (15-20 minutes maximum per sitting)
• Frequent movement breaks
• Hands-on or manipulative-based learning
• Clear, predictable routines
• Checklists so the child knows exactly what is expected

For Writing Struggles: Bypass and Build

For children with dysgraphia or significant writing difficulties:

• Allow oral narration or dictation in place of written work when appropriate
• Use speech-to-text technology to allow the child to compose without handwriting limiting them
• Separate handwriting practice from content-based writing assignments
• Build handwriting skills in short, separate sessions

General Principles for Struggling Learner Curriculum

• Go slower. It is better to truly learn less than to rush through and retain nothing.
• Review more. Struggling learners need more repetition to solidify concepts.
• Celebrate small wins. Progress looks different for these kids, and it deserves genuine celebration.
• Trust your instincts. You know your child. If something is not working, change it.

Keep exploring: our full curriculum list and free printables and lessons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should we get our child evaluated before choosing curriculum?

If you suspect a specific learning difference (dyslexia, ADHD, processing issues), an evaluation can help you understand exactly what you are working with and make more targeted curriculum choices. It is not required, but it can be incredibly informative.

How do we know if a curriculum is working for our struggling learner?

Progress, even slow progress, is the sign. If your child is learning new things, retaining them over time, and feeling some sense of competence, the curriculum is working. If they are frustrated constantly and retaining nothing, change approaches.

Is it okay to modify curriculum to meet our child’s needs?

Absolutely. You are the teacher. Do fewer problems. Extend a unit that needs more time. Skip the parts your child has already mastered. Modify everything to serve your specific child.

Your Child Can Learn

Every child we have ever met is capable of learning. Some take a different road to get there. As their homeschool teacher, you have the rare gift of finding that road for them.

Browse our curriculum options and reach out with specific questions about what might work for your child. We are here to help.