Christian vs. Secular Curriculum
Homeschool
Audio By Carbonatix
I remember standing in the middle of a massive homeschool convention exhibit hall, clutching a tote bag that was slowly cutting off the circulation in my shoulder. I was surrounded by towering stacks of colorful workbooks, science kits that promised to make my kids geniuses, and history timelines that stretched for miles.
I picked up a science textbook that looked fantastic. It had bright pictures, engaging experiments, and clear text. Then, I flipped to the introduction. It was strictly secular, with no mention of a Creator. I put it down and picked up another one. This one was deeply Christian but looked like it was written on a typewriter in 1982.
I felt paralyzed.
As a mom of ten (yes, ten!), I wanted to give my kids the best education possible. But more than that, I wanted to give them a foundation. I struggled with the guilt: If I use a secular math book, am I compromising? If I use a boring Christian history book, will they hate learning?
It took me years to realize that the “Christian vs. Secular” debate isn’t about checking a box. You are the primary discipler of your children. Our job isn’t just about buying books. The great news is that you get to have wonderful conversations with your kids on a daily basic as you’re reading together.
Resource Highlight: Homeschool Basics
Navigating the curriculum jungle is one of the most stressful parts of homeschooling. That’s why Kristi Clover and I dedicated entire sections to this in our book, Homeschool Basics: How to Get Started, Keep Motivated, and Bring Out the Best in Your Kids.
We break down how to identify your child’s learning style and how to choose materials that fit your family’s unique faith and educational goals without losing your mind.
Stop the overwhelm and grab your guide here.
Expert Insight: The “Worldview” Filter
When it comes to choosing curriculum, Cathy Duffy is the undisputed queen. For decades, her site (Cathy Duffy Reviews) has been the go-to resource for homeschoolers.
Cathy advises parents to look at curriculum through the lens of Philosophy and Worldview. She notes that while subjects like Math might be “neutral” (2+2=4 regardless of your theology), subjects like Science and History are heavily influenced by the author’s worldview.
She suggests a balanced approach:
- Determine Your Non-Negotiables: For many Christian families, a Creationist view in science is a non-negotiable. For others, they prefer a secular text so they can teach their children how to defend their faith against evolution.
- Evaluate the “Preachiness”: Cathy often notes if a curriculum is “aggressive” in its religious or secular tone.
- You are the Teacher: Remember, you are the filter. As Cathy says, “You can use a secular resource and discuss it from a Christian worldview. In fact, that is often excellent preparation for the real world.”
Citation: Duffy, Cathy. “102 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum.”
Looking Deeper: The Fear of the “Bubble”
Let’s go a little deeper and ask, “What am I afraid of?”
Often, the fierce debate over “Christian vs. Secular” curriculum is rooted in Fear.
- Fear of Indoctrination: We are terrified that if our child reads a paragraph about millions of years, their faith will crumble.
- Fear of Sheltering: On the flip side, we fear that if we only give them Christian materials, they will be unable to relate to the real world (the “bubble” shame).
Here is the truth: Your child’s faith is not so fragile that it will be shattered by a textbook. I’ve had many wonderful conversations with my kids over the years, using secular materials as a springboard to discuss creation, evolution, and many other tough topics.
And conversely, Protective sheltering is not the same as hiding. A greenhouse protects young plants not to keep them weak, but to help them grow strong enough to eventually survive the storm.
When we choose a curriculum out of fear, we are reacting. When we choose intentionally, we are parenting.
Whether you choose a Christian textbook or a secular one, do it because it fits your child and your goals, not because you are afraid of the alternative.
Simple Steps in Worldview Training
- The “Red Pen” Method: If you are using a secular book (or even a Christian one you disagree with!), don’t be afraid to write in it. Make notes in the margins like, “What does the Bible say about this?” or “Discuss this point.”
- The “Dinner Table” Debrief: Pick one concept your child learned that day (e.g., a historical event or scientific theory) and ask, “How do you think God sees this event?” or “How does this show God’s design?”
- The “About the Author” Check: Before buying, always read the “About the Author” section on the publisher’s website. It usually tells you exactly where they are coming from, so there are no surprises.
Still wondering what to do? Read God’s Word and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Scripture:
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ." — Colossians 2:8 (NIV)
Prayer:
Lord, I ask for discernment. As I choose the tools for my children’s education, give me eyes to see truth and wisdom to filter out lies. Help me not to rely solely on a textbook to teach my children about You, but to use every lesson—whether math, history, or science—to point them back to Your glory. Let our homeschool be a place where truth is cherished. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Recommended Resources:
Science: Exploring Creation with Marine Biology (Apologia)
Our award-winning marine biology curriculum is now more colorful and exciting than ever! The updated second edition takes your student under the sea to explore the many wonders of marine wildlife and habitats. Topics covered in this edition include everything from microscopic organisms that make life in the ocean possible to macroscopic marine creatures such as clams, starfish, and sharks. Students will discover how these creatures and their physical surroundings form marine ecosystems such as intertidal zones, estuaries, coral reefs, continental shelf communities, epipelagic communities, and deep-ocean communities.
Wonders of the Ocean Realm
Dive into the depths of the ocean and embark on a faith and science adventure through five fact-packed short stories of marine life for ages 8 to 12.
From the sun-soaked tidepools of Hawaii to the wide expanse of the Atlantic waters, discover the wonders awaiting you in the ocean realm. Meet Astrid, the vibrant multi-colored sea star, Maximus, a powerful peacock mantis shrimp, Dexter, a clever mimic octopus, Wendell a massive humpback whale, and Luna, a mysterious deep-sea anglerfish. Journey through their realistic, captivating tales in five short stories where readers explore each ocean creature’s life cycle, habits, and environment. Plus, enjoy fascinating scientific truths about God’s incredible underwater world!
Christian Heroes
These exciting, challenging, and deeply touching true stories chronicle the lives of ordinary men and women whose trust in God accomplished extraordinary exploits for His kingdom and glory.
Written specifically to challenge readers with the powerful lives of missionaries who have profoundly shaped history, these books answer today’s call for positive role models and for opportunities to see how God works through the lives of those who follow him.
Prayers That Changed History
One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History.
Martin Luther. Sojourner Truth. Helen Keller. St. Patrick. We read their stories, and of other people like them, in history books and hear about the amazing things they did to change the world. But one part of the story is often left out: Each one of them wouldn’t have accomplished what they did without prayer.
In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn’t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history.
