Ohio Homeschool Supplies Checklist: Everything You Need

You don’t need much to start homeschooling. A desk, some books, writing supplies, and basic materials. This checklist covers everything you need for elementary through high school, plus budget-friendly alternatives.

Key Takeaways

• Basic startup: $200–$300 gets you mostly equipped
• Buy essentials first; add later as needed
• Use library extensively (free books, DVDs, programs)
• Ohio requires no testing supplies (unlike before Oct 2023)
• Many items can be DIY or borrowed
• Prioritize: desk, books, writing supplies, math manipulatives

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Workspace Setup (One-Time)

Essential Furniture

Desk or Table

• Purpose: Dedicated work surface
• Size: Doesn’t have to be large; kitchen table works
• Cost: $50–$200 (can repurpose existing furniture)
• Budget option: Use dining room table or kitchen island

Chair

• Purpose: Proper sitting posture, ergonomics
• Standard height: 18–20 inches off ground for typical desk
• Cost: $30–$100 (can repurpose existing chairs)
• Budget option: Dining chair or office chair from thrift store

Shelving or File Storage

• Purpose: Organize curriculum materials and supplies
• Options: Bookshelf, filing cabinet, plastic bins, wall-mounted shelves
• Cost: $50–$150
• Budget option: Repurposed furniture, plastic bins ($5–$10 each)

Organizational Accessories

• Desk organizer or caddy: $10–$20
• File folders/boxes: $10–$20 for starter set
• Labels and label maker: $5–$15

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Writing & Basic Supplies

Writing Instruments

Pencils (general use)

• Budget: 1 dozen pre-sharpened, $5–$8
• Quantity: Buy annual pack
• Extras: Pencil sharpener ($3–$5), erasers ($2–$4)

Pens (for older students)

• Ballpoint or gel: 12–pack, $3–$5
• Color options: Good for organization and notes

Markers & Colored Pencils

• Markers: 12–24 count set, $5–$10
• Colored pencils: 24–count set, $5–$15
• Purpose: Art, diagrams, creative projects

Whiteboard Markers

• Purpose: Reusable writing for lessons
• Cost: $3–$5 for set of 4

Paper & Writing Materials

Notebooks

• Wide-rule for younger kids: 2–3 per subject, $1–$2 each
• College-rule for older kids: Similar pricing
• Alternatives: Loose-leaf paper in binders (more flexible)
• Budget: $10–$20 total for initial notebooks

Loose-Leaf Paper

• Standard 8.5″ x 11″ pad: $3–$5 per ream
• College-rule or wide-rule: Pick based on grade
• Purpose: Math practice, writing drafts, extra work
• Quantity: Start with one ream; buy more as needed

Construction Paper

• Variety pack: 50–100 sheets, $3–$5
• Purpose: Art projects, bulletin board displays, crafts

Index Cards

• 3×5 and 4×6 sizes: $2–$4 per pack
• Purpose: Flashcards, study notes, note-taking

Sticky Notes

• Assorted colors: $3–$5 per pack
• Purpose: Tabs, bookmarks, reminders

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Subject-Specific Supplies

Language Arts

Books (See library section below)

Writing tools: Already covered above

Handwriting resources:

• Handwriting workbook: $5–$12 (optional; can use free printables)
• Handwriting practice books (manuscript/cursive): $3–$8

Editing supplies:

• Red pen for correction: $1–$2
• Highlighters (colors): $2–$4

Mathematics

Math Manipulatives (Choose based on grade)

Elementary:

• Counting bears or blocks: $5–$10
• Base-10 blocks: $10–$15
• Fraction tiles: $5–$10
• Place value cards: $3–$5 (or DIY)

Middle/High:

• Graphing tools: Ruler, protractor, compass ($5–$10 set)
• Algebra tiles: $10–$15
• Calculator: Scientific (grades 6+) $10–$20

Budget option: DIY manipulatives—buttons, beads, beans, blocks from home

Science

Basic Lab Supplies

• Beakers/measuring cups: $5–$10
• Test tubes (if doing experiments): $5–$10
• Thermometer: $3–$5
• Magnifying glass: $3–$8
• Flashlight/batteries: $5–$10

Nature Study

• Notebook for nature walks: $3–$5
• Binoculars: $15–$30 (optional; good investment)
• Field guides (birds, plants, insects): $5–$12 each

Budget option: Use items from home (jars, spoons, measuring spoons). Borrow from library.

Social Studies & History

Maps & Globes

• World globe: $10–$20
• Atlas or map book: $5–$15
• Wall map (U.S., world): $3–$8

Timeline Materials

• Poster board for timeline: $2–$4
• String/tape for display: $1–$3

Supplies for projects:

• Markers, scissors, glue: Already in basics

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Technology & Digital Tools

Computer Basics

Computer/Laptop

• Necessary? Not always (library computers available)
• If needed: $300–$800 new; $100–$300 used
• Chromebook: Good budget option, $150–$250

Internet

• Already have: No additional cost
• Library access: Free alternative if no home internet

Learning Subscriptions (Optional)

Free Options:

• Khan Academy (math, science, history)
• YouTube education channels
• Library digital resources

Paid Subscriptions (Optional, $5–$20/month):

• IXL (math and language arts practice)
• Duolingo (language learning)
• Canva (graphic design for projects)
• Access to streaming documentaries (library Kanopy, Netflix, Discovery Education)

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Desk & Organization Supplies

Desk Accessories

• Pen/pencil holder: $5–$10
• Desk pad or blotter: $3–$8
• Desk lamp: $15–$30
• Calendar (wall or desk): $2–$5

Organization

• File folders (pack of 12): $3–$5
• Binder clips, paper clips: $2–$4
• Stapler, staples: $5–$10
• Hole punch: $3–$5
• Tape dispenser and tape: $5–$10

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Optional Enrichment

Art Supplies (If including art curriculum)

• Acrylic paint set: $5–$15
• Watercolors: $5–$10
• Sketchbook: $3–$8
• Brushes: $5–$10
• Canvas or watercolor paper: $5–$15

Music (If including music)

• Recorder: $10–$20
• Ukulele: $40–$80 (budget option for music)
• Music staff paper: $3–$5

STEM Supplies

• LEGO or building blocks: $20–$100+ (can buy gradually)
• Coding robot: $20–$80
• Circuit boards (Snap Circuits): $20–$40

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Total Budget Breakdown

Minimal Setup (First Year)

• Furniture: $50–$100 (can use existing)
• Writing supplies: $30–$50
• Math manipulatives: $20–$40
• Science basics: $20–$30
• Organization: $20–$30
• Total: $140–$250

Standard Setup

• Furniture: $100–$150
• Writing/paper supplies: $50–$75
• Math: $40–$60
• Science: $40–$60
• Reading books: $50–$100
• Organization: $30–$50
• Total: $310–$495

Premium Setup

• Quality furniture: $200–$300
• Complete supplies: $100–$150
• Math manipulatives: $75–$100
• Science lab materials: $75–$150
• Books: $100–$200
• Tech/digital: $100–$300
• Enrichment (art, music, STEM): $100–$200
• Total: $750–$1,400+

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Cost-Saving Strategies

Use Your Library

Free Ohio library offerings:

• Books (unlimited borrowing)
• Audiobooks (physical and digital)
• Educational DVDs and documentaries
• Learning databases and resources
• Sometimes: STEM kits, science materials
• Rarely: Some libraries loan art supplies, musical instruments

Tip: Ask your librarian what educational resources are available. You might be surprised.

Buy Used

• Facebook groups: “Homeschool Curriculum Swap,” local city pages
• Thrift stores: Goodwill, Salvation Army (books, math materials)
• Online: eBay, marketplace apps

Savings: 40–70% off new prices

DIY Materials

• Math manipulatives: Buttons, beads, beans, blocks
• Flashcards: Index cards you already have
• Timeline: String and poster board
• Science tools: Measuring cups from kitchen, jars for experiments
• Flashcards: Create with paper and markers

Wait & Gradually Add

Don’t buy everything at once. Start with essentials. Add items as you identify needs.

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Supplies NOT Needed (Since October 2023)

• Standardized test materials (not required)
• Portfolio supplies for submission (not required)
• Record-keeping forms (keep simple notes instead)
• Attendance logs (not required by law)

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Shopping List by Category

Start Here (Essential):

• Pencils and erasers
• Notebooks (2–3 per child)
• Loose-leaf paper
• Desk and chair (or use existing)
• File folders/storage
• Basic math materials (counting objects, ruler, flashcards)

Add When Ready:

• Colored pencils, markers
• Science materials
• Maps and globes
• Enrichment supplies (art, music)
• Technology and subscriptions

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Where to Buy Supplies

• Local: Target, Walmart, Office Depot (sales seasonal)
• Online: Amazon, Rainbow Resource Center, Homeschool Buyers Co-op (discounts)
• Budget: Thrift stores, dollar stores, library (free)
• Co-op bulk discounts: Local homeschool co-ops often negotiate group pricing (10–20% savings)

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Final Checklist

Before you start:

• [ ] Desk/workspace set up
• [ ] Basic writing supplies (pencils, paper, notebooks)
• [ ] Math materials (manipulatives, ruler)
• [ ] Science basics (if doing hands-on science)
• [ ] Binders and file folders
• [ ] Library card (free!)
• [ ] Curriculum ordered or borrowed

You don’t need everything at once. Start simple, add as you go. Your most expensive investment will be curriculum, not supplies.

For curriculum guidance, see Best Homeschool Curriculum in Ohio.