Combining multiple ages can work!

If you can imagine a family cuddled on the couch, laughing as dad reads a hilarious turn of the plot with one of his signature voices, then you may be onto the secret of teaching more than one child with a single Core program.

Real books span a wide range of ages
Sonlight uses lots of fascinating, real books (rather than textbooks); and books, by design, are crafted for a span of ages. Therefore, a wide range of students (plus mom and dad!) can access and enjoy Sonlight^® History, Read-Alouds and Science books.

Save time and sanity while you bond!
Families who use a single Core program to teach multiple kids (who are close in age) often save teaching time and sanity and create even more bonding moments for siblings.

Freedom to do what works for you
Remember that every family is different. Many parents use more than one Core package with great success. Chat with a Sonlight Advisor to discuss what might work for your family, and try it for yourself. You're covered by Sonlight's unrivaled guarantee.

Tips for one Core/several kids

If you decide to go with a single package: Choose your Core (or Multi-Subject Package) program with the focus on any one of your children (oldest, youngest, or a middle child).

Use the "Usually Used By" slider bar on each package page in the catalog to determine the most appropriate Core and Science program for your children by age or grade (See below). Unless one or more of your children has a unique learning capability, children within a three-year age range should be able to use the same materials with few modifications.

Then choose additional subjects (like Readers, Math and Language Arts programs) as appropriate for your other students.

(Children often need individualized Math and Language Arts because the content tends to be like building blocks, each new concept resting on the foundation of others. Reading and math placement tests are available at sonlight.com/placement-tests.html. Chat with an Advisor if you'd like some individual advice!)

Example 1

Family A orders a Multi-Subject Package (P4/5) for their oldest, five-year-old Jacob. This package is also appropriate for Emma (4). Two-year-old Sophie can "listen in" until she's ready to start her own studies—using materials previously purchased for the older children. Not only can Jacob and Emma enjoy learning together, but the family won't have to purchase a complete curriculum again for Sophie. She can continue to use her siblings' non-consumable materials (90% of the curriculum!) year after year.

Example 2

Family B chooses a Core with the middle child, Jadon (6) in mind. Then they add grade-appropriate Math and Language Arts (and personal readers—for students at a reading level of Grade 2 and below) for Hannah (8) and Josh (5). They continue to enjoy the History, Geography and Read-Aloud books from the same Core together.

We're here to help you find the perfect fit

Please don't hesitate to ask for help! You'll find hundreds of moms and dads who can give you good advice on the Sonlight^® Forums. Or contact a Sonlight Advisor (email advisor@sonlight.com, call (303) 730-6292 or chat at sonlight.com/SCA). They, too, are experienced Sonlight^® moms who can help you consider your options and make the choice that's best for you and your family. And, of course, remember that however you choose to use Sonlight in your home, you have the backing of Sonlight's exclusive 18-week Love to Learn Guarantee.