Methodology & how to choose
We match programs to your answers using fit first. Commission is never part of the score.
Must-fit filters
A program is dropped from your shortlist if it fails any of these:
- Grade band — it must cover the ages/grades you selected
- Worldview — secular is exact-match only. Christian matches Christian-positioned programs (plus non-denominational Christian programs such as The Good and the Beautiful). Catholic matches Catholic-primary programs first; if too few programs match, we may widen to compatible Christian options and say so. No preference? We skip this filter.
- Budget ceiling — estimated cost tier must be at or under what you set
- Scope — single-subject or supplement programs are excluded unless you asked for that kind of help
Preference scoring (among matching programs)
Programs that pass the must-fit filters get points for overlapping preferences. Higher weight goes to learning style and format; parent time, open-and-go / low-prep needs, subject scope, and an exact budget tier match also help. Under a Christian/Catholic preference, programs that fit faith-based families without a denominational stance can get a small boost. Nothing about affiliate status or commission is scored.
Limits
- Not educational, legal, or medical advice.
- We cover a growing set of well-known options, not every program that exists. Some listings are home study schools or academies that include enrollment, grading, or counseling rather than a single boxed curriculum.
- Budget and parent-time labels are approximate, not quotes.
- If fewer than two programs match, we may remove the budget limit, or (for a Catholic preference) widen to compatible Christian options, and tell you we did.
- We do not claim personal product testing of every listing.
How to choose (short)
- Lock grade, worldview, budget, and teaching hours first.
- Decide open-and-go vs flexible planning — this often reduces burnout.
- Sample one subject before buying a full package when you can.
- Plan to adjust after 4–6 weeks.
- Treat matches as a shortlist; read samples and reviews yourself.