As the vibrant days of summer begin to fade, if you haven’t already, you are starting to shift gears, preparing for a brand new year. We know that getting everything ready – from fresh curriculum and engaging educational tools to art supplies and tech upgrades – can quickly add up.
But here’s the exciting thing: “back-to-school” deals aren’t just for traditional classrooms! It’s actually a prime opportunity for homeschooling parents to snag incredible deals and make their budget stretch even further. Get ready to discover how you can equip your homeschool year for success without breaking the bank, because we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best discounts and smart saving strategies just for you!
Quick tip before you shop, make sure you have a form of verification like a Homeschool ID (we use Canva to make one) or a Letter of Verification from the district.
Back-to-School Sales & Promotions
Now, remember that August and September are prime times for general back-to-school sales. Mid-August is when Massachusetts runs its Tax Free Weekend, so save the big purchases for that weekend if you don’t run into a better sale prior. Keep a sharp eye on weekly ads from major retailers for fantastic deals on:
- School Supplies: Notebooks, pens, pencils, binders, glue, scissors, art supplies.
- Technology: Laptops, tablets, printers, and computer software.
- Storage & Organization: Bins, shelves, and filing systems for classrooms or homeschool spaces.
- Clothing & Shoes: New sneakers, active clothing, sports gear.
Curriculum & Online Programs
- Back-to-School Sales: Many curriculum providers run significant discounts during August and September. Sign up for newsletters to be the first to know!
- Prepayment Discounts: Some online academies and co-ops offer substantial savings if you pay for the full school year upfront.
- Family Discounts: If you have multiple children, always ask about family rates or sibling discounts. For example, it gives 10% off for two students and 20% for three or more.
- Free Curriculum: Don’t overlook incredible free resources offering complete online curriculum at no cost. Sign up for weekly newsletters from various homeschooling parents and companies that offer weekly free downloads.
Retailer Discounts
Many popular stores offer ongoing discounts for educators. Always bring your homeschool ID or other proof of educator status (like a letter of intent to homeschool). Many of these stores require verification before you can use the discount. Here are a few retailers that offer discounts:
- Canva: Offers a pro account for 100% free to students and teachers. I have used it with my homeschooling verification.
- Target: Enjoy an exclusive storewide discount (7/20-8/30) & more all year as a verified teacher with Target Circle. This applies to homeschoolers, too!
- Michaels: I have not applied to this one yet, but I know other homeschooling parents have qualified for the 15% discount.
Local & Educational Attraction Discounts
Museums, Zoos, & Aquariums
Always inquire about educator rates, homeschool days, or group discounts before purchasing tickets. Many offer reciprocal memberships (e.g., ASTC, ACM, NARM) that grant discounted or free access to other institutions.
- EcoTarium (Worcester, MA): They offer Homeschooling STEM programs and a Homeschool Membership Program. The membership program is $175 for 4 people (1 has to be the adult), and an extra $25 per person is added. It is a fantastic deal, offering free admission, early class registration, and reciprocal benefits at over 1,000 other museums and zoos.
- Old Sturbridge Village (Sturbridge, MA): Keep an eye on their 2025 calendar for specific Home School Days, which offer special discounted rates.
- New England Aquarium (Boston, MA): On Tuesdays between September 2nd and December 23rd, 2025, the New England Aquarium invites homeschool families to take advantage of special pricing during their Homeschool Days. Tickets can be purchased starting on August 1st, 2025.
- Museum of Fine Arts (Boston, MA): Offers Artful Adventures, that is specially designed in-person homeschool classes for kids and teens, ages 6 to 18, on Friday mornings.
- Discovery Museum (Acton, MA): Free admission for educator/educational staff only, but if you have an EBT/WIC card, you can get a deep discount.
- Museum of Natural History and Planetarium (Providence, RI): Located within the Roger Williams Park, they offer Homeschool Adventures. These programs are $7 per person.
- Plimoth Patuxet (Plymouth, MA): They have Homeschool Days with special experiences curated just for Homeschooling families, as well as educational programs for co-ops, you can schedule a guided tour, or attend one of their evening or overnight programs.
- Harvard Museum of Natural History (Cambridge, MA): Free admission on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 to 5:00 pm (September through May), for Massachusetts residents. Groups of 10 or more must make a free group reservation.
Library Passes
A hidden gem! Your local public library likely offers passes for free or discounted admission to a wide array of Massachusetts museums and attractions. Check with your local branch!
EBT/WIC Discounts
A critical resource for low-income families statewide. Many cultural institutions across Massachusetts provide deeply discounted admission (often $3-$5 per person) for EBT, WIC, or Wonderfund cardholders. You can find a list of them on the Card to Culture website.
Final Tips for Smart Saving This School Year
The first step is to create a budget, which will help you outline your needs and determine your spending. This will limit those impulse buys on things that you might never use. Next, shop early and shop all the sales. Lastly, sign up for newsletters to stay informed on curriculum deals. In addition to this, use the free curriculum that is already out there on the internet and use up books, notebooks, and curriculum you already have on the shelves.
Did we miss your favorite deal for homeschooling shopping? Let us know in the comments below.
Here’s to a happy, successful, and inspiring new school year for all our amazing homeschooling families!
