Classical Education Homeschooling: Pros, Cons, Homeschool Curriculum & Programs

If you’re considering classical education homeschooling, you’re not alone. Many parents explore this traditional approach when deciding how to teach their children at home. But what exactly is classical education, and how does it work in practice?

In this article, you’ll learn the basics of classical homeschooling—from its roots in ancient Greece and Rome to the modern stages of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. We’ll explore the pros and cons of this method, share resources for curriculum, and help you decide whether classical education homeschooling is the right fit for your family.

Learn About Classical Education

If you’d rather watch than read, there’s a video a little further down this page that explains the basics of classical education. If you’re looking for practical next steps, you’ll also find curriculum recommendations, book lists, and online resources near the bottom of this article.

What Is Classical Education Homeschooling?

At its core, classical education homeschooling is built on the idea of cultivating wisdom, virtue, and clear thinking in children. This approach has roots in ancient Greece and Rome, where philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle emphasized learning how to think—not just what to learn.

In a classical model, education is structured around two key components:

1. The Seven Liberal Arts — grammar, logic, rhetoric, geometry, arithmetic, music, and astronomy.
2. The Great Books — foundational works of literature, philosophy, history, and science that have shaped Western thought.

Together, these elements form the backbone of classical education. When adapted to homeschooling, parents use this method to guide their children through three stages of learning: the grammar stage (elementary years), the logic stage (middle school), and the rhetoric stage (high school). Each stage builds on the one before it, moving from memorization and fact-gathering toward critical thinking and persuasive communication.

In short, classical homeschooling is more than just a curriculum choice. It’s an educational philosophy designed to help children seek truth, develop strong character, and learn how to think for themselves.

Video: Classical Education & Homeschooling

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Classical Education and the Socratic Method

One of the hallmarks of classical education homeschooling is the use of the Socratic Method. Instead of simply giving answers, the teacher—or parent—asks thoughtful questions that guide the student to think more deeply. This approach encourages children to analyze, reflect, and articulate their own understanding rather than just memorizing facts.

By engaging in these kinds of conversations, students learn not only to grasp knowledge but also to apply it. The Socratic Method helps children develop critical thinking skills, confidence in expressing their ideas, and the ability to engage in meaningful dialogue—skills that serve them well both in homeschooling and in life.

When you sign up for the free course, you’ll also have the opportunity to schedule a free consultation.

The Seven Liberal Arts and the Great Books

At the heart of classical education homeschooling are two essential elements: the Seven Liberal Arts and the Great Books. These serve as the foundation of a well-rounded education, helping children learn how to think critically, reason effectively, and communicate clearly.

What are the Seven Liberal Arts?

The Seven Liberal Arts are divided into two groups:

• The Trivium: grammar, logic, and rhetoric.
• The Quadrivium: geometry, arithmetic, music, and astronomy.

Alongside these studies, children read from the Great Books—influential works of literature, philosophy, history, and science that have stood the test of time. These texts expose students to big ideas, timeless stories, and thought-provoking discussions that continue to shape culture today.

By combining the Liberal Arts with the Great Books, classical homeschooling gives children the tools to understand language and numbers, analyze thoughtfully, and engage with timeless ideas that continue to shape society today.

The Trivium

In classical education, the Trivium refers to three foundational skills of learning: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Together, they form the basis of communication and critical thinking.

• Grammar: Understanding the rules of language and mastering the building blocks of communication.
• Logic: Learning to reason properly, analyze information, and distinguish truth from error.
• Rhetoric: Developing the ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively through both spoken and written words.

These skills are not only taught as subjects but also used as tools across all areas of study. Whether a child is reading history, working through mathematics, or engaging in conversation, the Trivium provides the framework for understanding and expressing knowledge.

The Quadrivium

Alongside the Trivium, the Quadrivium makes up the second half of the Seven Liberal Arts in classical education homeschooling. These four subjects move students beyond the basics of language and reasoning into the realm of numbers, patterns, and the natural world.

• Geometry: The study of shapes, distance, size, and the space around objects—the oldest branch of mathematics.
• Arithmetic: Mastery of numerical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and more advanced concepts like powers and roots.
• Music: Understanding rhythm, melody, and harmony—not only for artistic expression but also for recognizing mathematical relationships in sound.
• Astronomy: The study of the heavens, including the sun, moon, stars, planets, and galaxies, fostering curiosity about the universe.

When paired with the Trivium, the Quadrivium helps children develop a balanced education—one that strengthens both their reasoning and their appreciation of the natural and creative world.

The Trivium as Stages of Learning

In addition to being part of the Seven Liberal Arts, the word Trivium is also used to describe three stages of learning that correspond roughly to a child’s development. This three-part pattern provides a roadmap for how children progress from absorbing knowledge to expressing their own ideas.

• Grammar Stage (Grades 1–4): In the early years, children are natural memorizers. This stage focuses on learning facts, rules, and building a foundation in language, math, and history.
• Logic Stage (Grades 5–8): As children grow, they begin asking more questions and looking for connections. Here, they learn to analyze information, debate, and think through arguments.
• Rhetoric Stage (Grades 9–12): In the high school years, students refine their ability to express themselves clearly and persuasively through speech, writing, and discussion.

This three-stage process, known as the trivium, is a hallmark of classical education. By matching instruction to a child’s natural development, parents can help their children grow from memorizing facts to thinking critically and communicating well.

By enrolling in the free course, you’ll also have the option to schedule a complimentary consultation.

The Purpose of a Classical Learning Method

At its core, classical education homeschooling is about much more than memorizing facts or completing assignments. Its ultimate goal is to help children become wise, virtuous, and thoughtful individuals who know how to seek truth and make sound decisions.

This approach has been used for centuries to cultivate both character and knowledge. By guiding children through the stages of the Trivium, exposing them to the Great Books, and encouraging meaningful dialogue, classical education aims to shape both the mind and the heart.

For homeschooling parents, this means that classical education is not simply a curriculum choice—it’s a philosophy of raising children to think clearly, communicate well, and live with integrity.

In this course, you’ll discover key principles to help you succeed in homeschooling your children. When you sign up, you’ll also have the option to schedule a free consultation for additional support.

Pros and Cons of Classical Homeschooling

Like any homeschooling approach, classical education has both strengths and challenges. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks can help you decide whether this method is the right fit for your family.

Pros of Classical Education Homeschooling

• Strong emphasis on core subjects, including an in-depth study of history.
• Extensive reading of classical literature that builds comprehension and vocabulary.
• Produces confident readers, writers, and speakers.
• Encourages critical thinking and thoughtful discussion.
• Incorporates math, science, music, and foreign languages into the core of learning.
• Aims to cultivate moral character and lifelong curiosity.

Cons of Classical Education Homeschooling

• A heavy reliance on reading and listening can be challenging for children who learn best through movement or hands-on activities.
• This method is teacher-driven and may feel overwhelming for some homeschool parents.
• Parents may need to hire tutors or enroll in classes for more advanced subjects.
• Focuses heavily on Western literature, which may feel limiting without supplemental works from other cultures.
• If children are pushed too far beyond their ability, they may become frustrated or lose a love of learning.
• Requires significant time and dedication to implement fully.

Pros: Benefits of Classical Homeschooling	Cons: Drawbacks of Classical Homeschooling
Emphasis on core subjects, including an intense study of history.	The classical education model needs to be combined with an education in technology and modern skills.
Vast study and reading of classical literature.	Focuses mainly on Western classics and may require supplementation with works from other cultures for a broader perspective.
Produces strong readers, writers, and speakers.	Children may develop a disdain for learning if they are pushed too quickly beyond their current abilities.
Math, science, and music are core components of classical education.	A classical education model is teacher-driven and may feel overwhelming to homeschool parents.
The study of Latin, foreign languages, and fine arts are incorporated into a classical education model.	Parents may need to hire tutors or enroll their kids in classes to meet the requirements of a classical education.
Classical education is excellent for kids who learn well through reading and listening.	This can be a problematic model for children who learn better through hands-on activities and movement.
Conversation and critical thinking skills are well-developed.	A classical education approach may need to be adjusted for kids with special needs.
A classical curriculum is designed to help children develop good moral character.	www.HomeSchoolThinkTank.com

Is Classical Education Right for Your Family?

Deciding whether to use classical education homeschooling depends on your family’s goals, your child’s learning style, and your own teaching preferences. Some children thrive with a structured approach, an emphasis on reading, and the challenge of learning to think critically and express themselves effectively. Others may feel overwhelmed if they prefer hands-on projects, a faster pace, or more flexibility.

As a parent, you don’t have to choose classical education exclusively. Many families adapt the method by blending elements of it—such as studying the Great Books or using the stages of the Trivium—while also incorporating other homeschooling styles. The key is to find an approach that supports your child’s growth and works for your family’s rhythm.

If you’re drawn to the structure and depth of classical education, but unsure whether it’s a perfect fit, consider starting with just one or two aspects, such as a reading list or a logic curriculum. You can always add more later as you gain confidence.

Faith-Based or Secular Classical Education

Most classical education homeschooling curricula are rooted in Christian principles, since the tradition of classical learning has strong ties to church history and Western thought. For families seeking a faith-based approach, numerous resources are available that naturally integrate Christian values into the study of the Liberal Arts and the Great Books.

For parents who prefer a secular approach, finding materials may take more effort. While it isn’t possible to completely separate classical education from historical religious influences, there are resources—such as The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer—that recommend both faith-based and secular options. Some homeschooling families choose to adapt the materials, including adding additional books or perspectives, to better reflect their values and worldview.

Whether you lean towards a faith-based or secular perspective, the key is to choose curricula that uphold the principles of classical education—teaching children to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage deeply with ideas.

Choosing Classical Education Resources

If you think a classical education approach would work for your family, the first step is to learn more about classical education. It’s a good idea to read more about classical education and to explore classical homeschooling curricula and programs that appeal to you. With so many options available, consider not only the quality of the resources but also how well they’ll serve your child and your family’s rhythm.

In a classical model, you’ll integrate a structured curriculum and the Great Books. Most classical programs pair reading the great books with a curriculum that covers core subject areas. Some families use an all-in-one curriculum that guides you through the process of integrating a classical education model into your homeschool, while other families hand-select resources as they go.

As you compare classical education curriculum options, here are some considerations:

• The structure — Do you want a step-by-step guide, or do you prefer flexibility to adjust as you go?
• Reading expectations — Is the book load realistic for your child’s age and attention span?
• Writing demands — Does the program ease children in, or does it expect a lot right away?
• Language study — Many classical programs include Latin. Is that something you want?
• Support for parents — Will you get teaching guides, lesson plans, or discussion questions?
• Worldview — Is the program written from a Christian perspective, or is it more secular in tone?
• Outside help — Will you need online classes, tutors, or co-ops to make it manageable?

Books About Classical Education

A helpful way to begin with classical education homeschooling is by reading books written for parents. These resources explain the philosophy and provide practical ideas you can adapt in your own homeschool:

• Ancient History from Primary Sources: A Literary Timeline by Harvey and Laurie Bluedorn — Offers a chronological approach to history through original sources.
• Consider This: Charlotte Mason and the Classical Tradition by Karen Glass — Connects the ideas of Charlotte Mason with the classical tradition.
• The Harp and Laurel Wreath: Poetry and Dictation for the Classical Curriculum by Laura M. Berquist — A collection designed to enrich a classical homeschool with poetry and dictation.
• The Lost Tools of Learning by Dorothy Sayers — A classic essay that laid the groundwork for much of today’s classical education movement.
• Rethinking School: How to Take Charge of Your Child’s Education by Susan Wise Bauer — Encourages parents to think differently about school and take ownership of their child’s learning.
• A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the Twenty-First Century by Oliver DeMille — Focuses on character, leadership, and lifelong learning through a classical lens.
• Timeline of Classics: Historical Context for the Good and Great Books by Gail Ledbetter — Provides a helpful framework for placing classic works within their historical setting.
• The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise — Often considered the go-to guide for parents beginning with classical education.

Starting with one or two of these books can give you a solid understanding of the classical model and help you decide how much of it you’d like to bring into your homeschool.

Classical Homeschool Curriculum

Once you feel comfortable with the basics, the next step is choosing a curriculum that will guide your children on a day-to-day basis. Classical curricula are designed to combine structured lessons with exposure to the Great Books, allowing your child to build knowledge systematically while engaging with timeless works of literature, philosophy, and history.

Some families prefer comprehensive, all-in-one programs such as Memoria Press or Veritas Press, which provide detailed lesson plans, reading lists, and teaching guides. Others prefer to piece together resources, selecting language arts from one provider, history from another, and supplementing with their own Great Books reading lists. Either way, the curriculum you choose should align with your child’s learning style and your family’s goals.

• The Complete Writer by Susan Wise Bauer — A step-by-step program that helps children develop strong writing skills over time.
• First Language Lessons by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise — A gentle yet thorough introduction to grammar and language arts for younger students.
• Story of the World series by Susan Wise Bauer — A popular four-volume history program with accompanying activity books and CDs.
  • Vol. 1: Ancient Times
  • Vol. 2: The Middle Ages
  • Vol. 3: Early Modern Times
  • Vol. 4: The Modern Age
• Classical Curriculum Resources by Jessie Wise — Additional materials created to support classical education in the homeschool setting.
• Classical Curriculum Resources by Susan Wise Bauer — A wide range of resources, from writing and grammar programs to comprehensive history texts, designed to help families implement the classical model at home.
• Well-Trained Mind Academy — An online program offering live and self-paced classes based on the classical model.

Families may choose an all-in-one provider for simplicity or combine different programs to create a personalized plan. The key is selecting curriculum that fits your child’s learning style and your family’s rhythm.

Memoria Press: Video with Martin Cothran

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Classical Homeschool Programs, Online Academies, Classes, and Blogs

For families who want additional structure or outside support, there are many online academies and programs that follow the classical model. These can be especially helpful if you prefer live instruction, want access to experienced teachers, or need courses that go beyond what you feel comfortable teaching at home.

• Classical Academic Press — Offers curriculum, teacher training, and online classes grounded in the classical tradition.
• The Classical Classroom — Practical lessons, articles, and how-tos to help parents and co-op teachers implement the classical model at home.
• Classical Conversations — A community-based program that combines at-home learning with weekly group meetings led by trained tutors.
• Classical Liberal Arts Academy — Provides online courses, curricula, and resources rooted in the traditional classical model, with an emphasis on the original liberal arts.
• Classical U — Offers training and professional development for parents and educators who want to deepen their understanding of classical education and improve their teaching skills.
• Hillsdale College Free Online Courses — College-level resources designed for older students or parents who want to deepen their understanding of classical thought.
• Memoria Press — Provides both curriculum and online courses with a focus on Latin, logic, literature, and traditional studies.
• St. John’s College Reading List — A Great Books program that can guide parents and teens in building their own classical reading plan.
• Veritas Press — Offers self-paced and live online classes for students, covering history, literature, Bible, and the liberal arts.
• Well-Trained Mind Academy — Founded by Susan Wise Bauer, this academy provides online classes for students of all ages, from foundational writing to advanced courses.

Exploring online academies is a good way to supplement your homeschool, whether you’re looking for a full course load or just a class or two to enrich your child’s studies.

How to Find a Classical Academy

If you’re interested in a more formal option, you might consider enrolling your child in a classical academy. These schools follow the classical model and may be available locally, as charter schools, or online.

To find one near you, try searching terms such as “classical academy,” “classical school,” “classical charter school,” or “online classical academy” along with your city or state. Many families are surprised to discover that classical academies are closer than they expected, and online programs make it possible to access this style of education from almost anywhere.

For some parents, combining home study with a classical academy—or using an academy for specific courses—strikes the right balance between structure and flexibility.

📚 A Classical Education: Forming Wise & Virtuous Students

“That’s what all schools did.

They did classical education up until the early 20th century.

Schools were trying to form wise & virtuous students.

They were trying to teach them how to think and what to do.”

Martin Cothran. What Is A Classical Education. August 21, 2018. Accessed March 11, 2023. Memoria Press (YouTube video).

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More Articles and Episodes for You

If you’d like to continue exploring homeschooling methods and philosophies, here are a few related articles and podcast episodes you may find helpful:

• Different Approaches to Homeschooling — Compare popular methods to see what fits your family best.
• The Great Books — Learn why these timeless works are central to classical education.
• Homeschool Curriculum — Explore options for building a curriculum that works for your child.
• Education vs. Schooling — Understand the difference and how it impacts your homeschool.
• History Podcasts & Curriculum — Discover engaging ways to bring history to life at home.

These resources can give you a broader perspective and help you feel more confident in shaping your child’s education.

The HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Each week, we release two episodes for parents around the world. Mindset Mondays are designed to encourage and inspire homeschooling parents, while Wednesday Wisdom focuses on practical topics related to education, homeschooling, and parenting

Listen to this episode about classical homeschooling.

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