Thrifting - Instant $$$ Saver

Thrifting can be a goldmine for homeschooling resources! Here’s a list of things you can thrift to enrich your homeschool journey while saving money:

Curriculum & Learning Materials

  • Textbooks & Workbooks – Math, science, history, language arts, etc. (even partially used ones can be repurposed!)

  • Educational Books – Classic literature, reference books, encyclopedias, atlases, dictionaries, and foreign language books.

  • Activity Books – Puzzle books, brain teasers, coloring books, and story prompt books.

  • Sheet Music & Music Theory Books – Great for music education.

  • Flashcards – Alphabet, sight words, math facts, geography, and more.

  • Board Games & Card Games – Scrabble, Bananagrams, Monopoly, and other educational games.

  • Puzzles – Geography, science, problem-solving puzzles.

  • Educational DVDs & CDs – Documentaries, history lessons, language learning, and audiobooks.

  • Magazines & Workbooks – National Geographic Kids, Highlights, Ranger Rick, etc.

Furniture & Organization

  • Bookshelves – For organizing learning materials.

  • Desks & Chairs – Child-sized or adjustable for different ages.

  • Cubbies & Storage Bins – To keep supplies and projects organized.

  • Rolling Carts – Great for mobile learning stations.

  • Chalkboards & Whiteboards – For lessons, doodles, and creative play.

  • Filing Cabinets – To store paperwork and completed assignments.

Art & Craft Supplies

  • Fabric & Sewing Supplies – For crafts, costumes, and hands-on learning projects.

  • Markers, Crayons, Colored Pencils – Often found in great condition.

  • Paints & Brushes – Watercolors, acrylics, and more.

  • Scrapbooking Materials – Stickers, decorative paper, and washi tape.

  • Jars & Containers – Great for sensory bins, science experiments, and storing supplies.

Nature & Science Exploration

  • Microscopes & Magnifying Glasses – For science investigations.

  • Globes & Maps – Vintage maps and globes for geography lessons.

  • Binoculars – Perfect for nature studies and birdwatching.

  • Gardening Supplies – Pots, tools, and seed trays for hands-on botany.

  • Rock & Shell Collections – Useful for nature studies.

Home & Classroom Decor

  • Educational Posters & Charts – Alphabet, multiplication tables, historical timelines, etc.

  • Cork Boards & Bulletin Boards – For pinning artwork, schedules, and learning visuals.

  • Lamps & String Lights – To create a cozy learning space.

  • Rugs & Floor Cushions – Comfortable seating for reading and learning.

  • Themed Decor – Globes, maps, inspirational quotes, and nature-themed items.

Outdoor & Play-Based Learning

  • Musical Instruments – Tambourines, recorders, xylophones, ukuleles, and more.

  • Dress-Up Clothes & Costumes – For imaginative play and themed learning days.

  • Sports Equipment – Balls, jump ropes, and yoga mats.

  • Building Toys – LEGOs, wooden blocks, and STEM kits.

  • Outdoor Games & Toys – Kites, hula hoops, and scavenger hunt items.

Unique Finds (that work great with homeschooling)

  • Old Cameras & Film Equipment – Great for photography projects.

  • Typewriters & Vintage Office Supplies – Fun for writing practice.

  • Musical Records & Cassette Tapes – Classic educational audio.

  • Cooking Tools – Measuring cups, small appliances, and recipe books for life skills lessons.

  • Travel Guides & Brochures** – Great for geography and social studies.

Thrifting is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way to stock your homeschool while finding unique, high-quality materials!

What items would be most useful for your homeschool style? 😊 Let me know down below in the comments ❤️

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