FAQs

 Origins is an adventure into global education. We take students on a virtual journey around the world, deep diving into each global biome and learning about the regions in depth, exploring through our focal points of Internal, External, Metaphysical and Interconnection.

Kids learn that the Earth is a living body of interconnected patterns and that understanding nature helps us understand ourselves. They will learn about the original peoples, global cultures, plants and animals, environmental concerns, economics, water cycles, weather patterns, food systems, soil types and how all the regions are connected to the greater global web. 

As we make our way through the years, we will travel through each grade's biome:

Kindergarten sets out on an adventure to explore all of the biomes! This helps them to create a solid foundation to build from as they transition into 1st-5th grade where we'll be diving deeper.
1st Grade discovers the wonders of our Deserts
2nd Grade travels through the Forests of our world
3rd Grade dives deep into the Aquatic biome
4th Grade wanders through the Grasslands of the planet
5th Grade uncovers the magic of the Tundra

The biome studies will be explored through the lenses of reading, mathematics, science, social studies, language arts, music and art and more, all the while weaving in eco- literacy and mindfulness.

Origins is structured around our 4 Focal Points and Guiding Questions:
     • Internal: Who Are We?
     • External: Who Lives Here?
     • Metaphysical: What's Happening?
     • Interconnection: How Are We Connected?

These focal points make up the Mother Mandala, which is a supporting visual showcasing the cyclical patterns of nature, acting as the guiding foundation for each year. The mother mandala consists of concentric circles that are independent of one another, but interconnected. 




We start with Internal where we look inward and ask and answer the guiding question “Who Are We?” and then we pulse outward like a heartbeat, and back in. With internal we are learning about ourselves, who we are as an individual, what makes us a human. We will work on goal setting and self-assessment, human anatomy, and poetry. We are learning about who we are, inside and out, then moving out to our family, then extended family and into the concept of ancestors and who came before us.



Then as we continue pulsing outward we come to the External focal point to see who and what is around us in the world while we explore the question “Who Lives Here?”.. We will learn about the plants, animals and people that live in each biome, exploring different cultures and societies around the globe. We work on building important skill sets like researching and fact-checking, as well as differentiating between nonfiction vs fiction writing.

Then we move into In Metaphysical, where we ask and answer the question “What’s Happening” while we examine how the systems of society function and how the different parts of these systems work together along with the cycles of nature. We begin to become aware of the larger world and its interconnected magic.

Finally, we circle around to Interconnection – where we learn the answers to the guiding question ‘How Are We Connected?”. This is the point in the curriculum where we dive into the effects of the changing climate, its repercussions on the environment and how humans can help protect the planet.

These focal points continue to cycle throughout the curriculum and students can see how these focal points have influenced their personal and academic growth.

Our curriculum was designed to support both linear and emergent learning. It acts as a solid structure for you to plug in your student's interests and harness their skills, while exploring both our inner & outer worlds. We include different directive resources that can help you prepare and plan, and establish a pace of learning that feels right for you. We also offer support calls as well as tours & onboarding for new subscribers. These informative opportunities really help to set subscribers up for success and get started on the right foot.

When you purchase your subscription, you gain access to a plethora of resources and the first month of curriculum content. You have full freedom to decide which lessons and activities you want to explore on which days, which resources you use, and how you set up your day.

At Origins we have introduced a completely new model of teaching. Rather than sitting for subject after subject all day long memorizing, we have created an emergent living learning system.  

How Lessons Work: An Origins lesson really takes as long as you need it to. It all depends on the engagement of your student and the flow of the day. You might finish a lesson in one day, or you can deep dive and stretch it out to last a week if your child is really interested, and then repeat it any time throughout the year using different supporting books and resources. This deeper exploration is truly where magic is found. Origins Curriculum developers designed the lessons so that any book on the lesson topics will suffice. 

Books & Resources: We know not everyone has the same access to public libraries and books, and we want you to be able to use what you have. Outdoor extensions and mindful reminders are woven throughout Origins Curriculum, so we naturally encourage you to slow down and take your time to really dive into the curriculum content and explore.

Subject Levels: We know that each student has unique needs, skills and interests, and may be at different levels in varying subjects. At Origins we have introduced a completely new model of teaching. Rather than sitting for subject after subject all day long memorizing, we have created an emergent living learning system. 

Interdisciplinary Learning: At Origins we have an interdisciplinary approach. Compared to conventional single-subject learning, an interdisciplinary approach significantly enhances educational outcomes by engaging students in complex problem-solving that transcends traditional subject boundaries. This method not only broadens the scope of what students learn by integrating diverse disciplines to address multifaceted issues, but also transforms the learning process itself. Origins approach encourages students to synthesize varied perspectives and develop critical thinking skills. That said, if your student is at different grade levels in different subjects, we are more than happy to work with you to get you the content you need for your individual learner. 

Origins is set up so that you can begin and also transition to any grade at any point in the year. We do our best to keep our activities season-neutral so the content works for any climate, anywhere in the world. 

Our samples include our Year At A Glance, which is an overview of the year. This document can give you an idea of what students will be studying in that grade. You can always start with a simple trial to try out different grades, and then cancel any subscriptions that don't work for your student and continue with what does.

Last but not least, we are happy to announce that we are in the process of setting up printing/shipping options for subscribers. We will begin with offering a "Starter Pack" which will provide you with just about everything on your dashboard, and then later on, we will provide subscribers with the option to continue with monthly or annual printing.

At Origins we're a family, and we're always happy to help in any way that we can. Please do not hesitate to reach out to customer service at [email protected] with any questions you may have! 

Origins is delivered through various methods and means including the integration of off-line activities and experiences that leverage the natural world. In essence, the content is hosted online, which provides flexibility and accessibility for those who live in both urban and rural areas, but the content is not limited to screen-based activities. It includes instructions, guides and resources for hands-on experiences that take place outdoors and fully engaged with nature! Our project-based learning delivers content with real world exploration built in. And it’s also the way we are able to take children around the world virtually, in a way that they would never be able to do physically. In this way Origins students can learn about, appreciate, and engage with nature even while benefiting from the flexibility and accessibility of the online curriculum that also gives real world immersive experiences.

At Origins Curriculum, we are committed to delivering a transformative educational experience grounded in evidence-based practices. Our unique approach integrates Eco-literacy, mindfulness, and academic rigor, all supported by extensive research and a deep understanding of child development.

**Research-Based Design:** 

The development of Origins Curriculum is rooted in academic research and pedagogical principles that promote holistic development in children. Our curriculum is crafted by a team of experts who hold advanced degrees and certifications (including Masters and PhDs) in education, curriculum design, and related fields. This highly qualified team draws from a wealth of studies, pedagogical expertise and educational theories to create a curriculum that is both innovative and effective. Although our team has conducted and referenced diverse research throughout their careers, some key areas of focus include:

- **Mindfulness:** Research shows that integrating mindfulness practices in education can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms in youth, fostering emotional resilience (Dunning et al., 2019).

- **Nature-Based Learning:** Studies have demonstrated that exposure to nature enhances cognitive skills such as memory and attention, making it a crucial component of our curriculum (Kuo et al., 2019).

- **Eco-Literacy:** Educating children about the environment through Eco-literacy not only improves their environmental knowledge but also instills a conservation mindset, critical for future stewardship (Bergman, 2016).

- **Systems Thinking:** Our curriculum encourages systems-thinking, a methodology proven to strengthen children's ability to understand and solve complex problems (Hopper & Stave, 2008).

**Research-Backed Outcomes:** 

Over a decade of iterative classroom implementation has allowed us to refine and validate our approach. Origins Curriculum nurtures essential skills such as emotional intelligence, creative problem-solving, and a deep passion for environmental stewardship. The results (and our testimonials) speak for themselves—children who engage with Origins Curriculum are better equipped to thrive as thoughtful, compassionate, and capable leaders of tomorrow.

Origins is the world’s first Conscious Curriculum brand.  By combining Eco-literacy, mindfulness, and academics, we offer a curriculum that not only meets and exceeds educational standards but also prepares children to navigate and contribute positively to an ever-changing world. This powerful blend, supported by research, our team's advanced expertise, and continuous real-world application, defines the effectiveness and distinctiveness of Origins Curriculum.

Yes! Origins Curriculum is a cyclical curriculum that can be started at any point in the year! 

We try our best to keep our activities season-neutral. The benefit of having a digital curriculum, is that you can always revisit/reprint older content when the weather/seasons align. Summer months, which are less academic-oriented, are a great time to repeat or make-up the outdoor lessons.  

You can also easily move onto the next grade whenever your student is ready—even if you haven’t completed a full year. 

Please just reach out to customer service at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to assist you in accessing the next grade! 

Delivery: Origins Curriculum is delivered online, providing easy and convenient access for educators and parents through our secure platform. After subscribing, you'll receive login credentials to access your personalized dashboard. From there, you can easily download all necessary lesson plans, activities, and resources at any time and from any device. Your content is stored digitally on our site, allowing you to manage and organize your educational materials efficiently.

Implementation: While the curriculum is accessed digitally, the actual implementation of the lessons and activities is designed to occur offline. This structure ensures that while parents utilize the online platform to prepare, children engage in learning away from screens. Our nature-based curriculum promotes hands-on and outdoor learning, encouraging children to explore the natural world through activities that combine play-based learning, eco-literacy, and mindfulness.

Parents can keep and organize content online for ease of planning and preparation, but all child-facing activities are intended to be conducted offline. This approach helps foster a deeper connection with nature and provides a healthier, more engaging educational experience away from digital screens.

Mandalas are intricate, circular designs that have been used in various cultural practices across the world for centuries. Similar to the indigenous medicine wheel which often represent the 4 cardinal directions and various aspects of health and the cycles of life, it also correspond to different stages of life (childhood, youth, adulthood, old age), seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter), elements (earth, air, fire, water), or aspects of wellness (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual).

The Origins Mother Mandala is a larger symbol representing the harmonious and interconnected nature of life.

Origins is structured around our 4 focal points and guiding questions: 

• Internal: Who Are We?
• External: Who Lives Here?
• Metaphysical: What's Happening? 
• Interconnection: How Are We Connected? 

These focal points make up the Mother Mandala, which is a supporting visual showcasing the cyclical patterns of nature, acting as the guiding foundation for each year. The mother mandala consists of concentric circles that are interdependent of one another, but interconnected. 

You must have one of our subscription bundles or products to have access to an account dashboard. A subscription is something you pay monthly or annually for.  If you purchase curriculum or resources from the store, you do not have access to an account dashboard. 

If you do have a subscription, you can go to originscurriculum.com and click “login” on the right-hand side of the website—you can also click here.

First, this depends on what subscription you have.

For our Premium Bundles you will find your curriculum content and corresponding resources + an Educator Guide, overview for the year (Year At A Glance), Mindfulness and Social-Emotional Support Tools, Movement Videos, Posters, and organization tools. 

Origins' lessons are designed to be interdisciplinary, meaning they blend different subjects and areas of knowledge into a single, cohesive learning experience. Instead of teaching topics in isolation, Origins connects concepts across subjects like science, math, art, and language, allowing children to see the bigger picture and understand the interconnectedness of the world. For example, a lesson on the life cycle of a plant might incorporate storytelling, art projects, and hands-on math activities, fostering a more holistic and engaging learning experience that encourages critical thinking and creativity.

You can view Preschool Subjects here and K-5 Subjects here. 

Origins Curriculum provides Culture & Society lessons that focus on social issues, both current and historical, as they largely relate to eco-literacy. Many of our reading and writing lessons equip your student with the ability to critically engage with historical texts. The lessons are designed for you to choose the reading material and topics you want your student to learn about at any given point in their educational journey. We believe that an honest and transparent history needs to be shared. 

In the public education system, formal history isn't usually taught until middle school. As Origins Curriculum continues to grow, we will offer individual supplementary history lessons that will provide you with the framework to educate your grade school student about history in a meaningful way. 

Charges

You will initially be charged $9.99 for your trial month, then the following month you will be charged the full price of your subscription. You will be charged a monthly rate for monthly subscriptions or you will be charged the remaining balance for an annual subscription. 

If you wish to cancel your subscription to Origins Curriculum, fill out and submit a cancellation request by CLICKING HERE. In order to prevent an additional billing cycle, you must reach out at least seven (7) business days prior to your subscription renewal date.

Our team will guide you through the cancellation process and answer any questions you might have. We will also confirm the successful cancellation of your subscription by email. Please note that you will have access to your subscription benefits until the end of your current billing cycle.

If we receive a cancellation request less than seven (7) business days before your renewal date, your subscription will be scheduled for cancellation after the next billing cycle. This means you will be billed once more and retain access to Origins Curriculum for the duration of the following billing period.

Due to the nature of digital and downloadable content, no refunds or credits are permitted.  

How Our Product is Packaged

Our curriculum is made to be used online or printed—we currently do not offer drop-shipping. Each month new curriculum is released and made available to you on your dashboard. If you are a brand new subscriber you will begin with Month 1. The curriculum comes in the form of downloadable PDFs. 

When New Curriculum is Available

If you are on a monthly plan, new curriculum is released based upon when you initially purchase your subscription. Immediately upon purchasing you will have access to month 1 and all static resources on the dashboard. 

Then after that new curriculum content will be released each month along your unique timeline.

Access

You will always have access to your subscription, as long as your card is valid and not expired. You will get notifications to update your card if needed. 

If you are unable to update your card or pay for your subscription, your product will be revoked after so many notifications, and you will lose access to your subscription. 

If you cancel your subscription, afterwards you will see “pending cancellation” under your subscription, and next to it you will see your specific date of when your access to content will end. If you request for us to cancel your subscription, you will immediately lose access to content. 

If you cancel your subscription and then re-subscribe, you will begin again with Month 1. 

Pausing

It is possible to pause your subscription. After we’ve paused your account you will no longer have access to the dashboard and content there. So you will need to make sure to download all the content you would like to hold onto for this paused time.

Along with access, payments will also be paused. (We are not able to prorate or offer any refunds based on when you choose to pause)

We will add a tag to your account to keep track and wait to hear from you in the future to reactivate your account.

If you want to pause your subscription, you will need to contact us requesting this and we will take care of it within 7 business days.
Please note that you will need to track when your next auto pay is scheduled and make sure to reach out well in advance of that next charge.

Preschool Curriculum is for  classroom educators in daycares, preschools, private schools or homeschool families of children ages 3-5 years old 

Grade School Curriculum is for Kindergarten through 5th grade students. This curriculum can be used in the following settings: Homeschool, Pods & Micro Schools, Charter & Alternative Schools, Public or Private Schools. 

This is an international curriculum that serves both Preschool and Homeschool students and educators. The curriculum was designed so that you can begin at any point in the year and you do not need to “catch up.” You will still need to review homeschooling requirements for your location. Origins is being used in United States, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, UK and Indonesia and counting. 

Yes.This is an international curriculum that serves both Preschool and Homeschool students and educators. The curriculum was designed so that you can begin at any point in the year and you do not need to “catch up.” You will still need to review homeschooling requirements for your location. Origins is being used in United States, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, UK and Indonesia and counting.  If you’re unsure of where to begin, you can start by viewing Homeschooling 101 on the website!

For Grade School, you can download a sample HERE.

For Preschool you can download a sample HERE.

If you've already purchased a basic or deluxe bundle and would like to upgrade to the Premium to unlock additional features and more benefits, kindly cancel your current subscription and purchase again. 

If you need to downgrade from Premium, you will first need to cancel your current subscription (See the Manage Your Account section at the bottom of the FAQ) and then purchase the subscription that you would like.

If your student is moving at a faster pace and needs to move to a higher grade level sooner, reach out to customer service at [email protected]. 

Discounts we offer:

• Sibling Discount offers 50% off on 2nd and subsequent subscription purchases. You must have each subscriptions purchased under the same email address before we can apply the discount. You must also email us to request the discount be applied.
• Sliding Scale Discount is for low income families or those experiencing financial hardships. 

PLEASE NOTE:
Discounts are NOT available with Annual subscriptions or for payments made with PayPal.

You can contact us at [email protected] to learn more and inquire about these discounts. Discounts are offered at our discretion.

Origins has a wide variety of supports from detailed educator guides, how-to videos, our private facebook community, in-depth FAQ's and more, all at no cost.

We’re always happy to answer questions and help support our subscribers via email or chat. 

If you are looking for extra one-on-one support, we now offer private consultations and trainings with our team of experts via phone or video calls. 

Reach out to our customer service team to learn more [email protected]

If you are on a monthly plan, new curriculum is released based upon when you initially purchase your subscription. Immediately upon purchasing you will have access to month 1 and all static resources on the dashboard. 

After that, new curriculum content will be released each month along your unique timeline.

You must be an Origins Curriculum subscriber to access the Forum or the Private Facebook Group.

Once you have subscribed, log in to your dashboard and scroll down to “Community Resources”. Here you will find a link to the Community Forum and the Private Facebook Group. (Please note: this link may be on page 2 of your dashboard so continue to page 2 to find it.)
Once you are redirected to the Forum, you will be prompted to log in again. Simply use your account username and password. Once logged in, you can connect with others, ask questions, and troubleshoot with one another. There are different sections for Preschool and Homeschool users.  

If you are asked for the Private Facebook Group password, just click the link under “Community Resources.” You will find it there.

Specific differences can be found between educational curriculum and educational programs. One of the main differences is that curriculum exists independent of an educational program, and does not fall under the process of accreditation management. There is not even a governing body that oversees an accrediting process for independent curricula.

However, Origins Curriculum expertly fulfills a multitude of needs for families and is comprehensive in a number of ways:

• Origins Curriculum provides families flexibility and is tailored to the wide variety of learning styles found in children. As such, it is helpful for families in meeting the needs of their children's uniquely inquisitive natures.

• Origins Curriculum can be personalized to meet the needs of each student in a learning group. While using Origins Curriculum, a parent delivers the provided educational content directly to their child in the manner they determine is best suited for their child's needs.

• One of the most exciting elements of Origins Curriculum is that it is based on a highly integrated approach to the educational needs of young children. As such, it is written to address the learning styles of all children, ensuring that parents are meeting the needs of their child no matter which area of learning they discover that their child excels in. 

All learning styles, such as the neurodivergent, those of different multiple intelligences, as well as new and experienced homeschoolers, can feel confident using Origins curriculum because the foundational elements for success are written right into the curricular building blocks. In accredited programs, learners generally have to be very focused on one path or one way of learning and thus, the flexibility is lost. Learn more HERE.

Origins Curriculum strives to not only support, but embrace and celebrate diversity including cultural, ethnic, physical/mobility, age, orientation, religious, neurodiversity and more to create an inclusive community where students and families from every background feel welcome and empowered to learn and grow together. We provide a curriculum and platform where students of every learning-style and ability can experience the Origins Effect.

We are embarking on a new paradigm of early childhood education, to not only give children a strong academic foundation, but to support the philosophies and ideals that will create a generation of emotionally healthy people who value the wise use of resources, cultural diversity, gender equality and a sense of democracy.

Origins curriculum is secular and non-religious. It uses mindfulness, eco-consciousness and the ancient wisdom traditions of a deep connection to earth and its natural systems as its main focus. 

Preschool Prices can be found HERE.

Homeschool Prices can be found HERE.

We currently offer a sliding scale to help teachers and families that need financial assistance. We require that you provide us with supporting documentation to first see what discounts you qualify for, and then thereafter (every 6 months to a year) to keep your discount. Please contact us to inquire about our sliding scale.
PLEASE NOTE: Payments made with PayPal are not eligible for sliding scale discounts

The Origins Store is a place to buy non-subscription home and classroom resources, mindfulness and organizational tools, conscious courses, lesson plans and single-purchase curriculum packages that come bundled seasonally or yearly.  

The store curriculum packages are 1-time purchases rather than monthly subscriptions, and you get all the content at once. You can purchase. quarterly seasonal packages that follow our focal points (fall, winter, spring and summer) or a full year at once.

These are discounted packages from the prior year’s content that does not come with the plethora of additional resources, lessons, audio & video content, tools, guidance and support that is part of the subscription bundles.

If you purchase anything from our store, you will not have access to a “dashboard.” You only have access to an account dashboard if you have a subscription bundle. 

Exploratory Courses & Conscious Lessons are available for purchase in our STORE.

Exploratory Courses are in-depth conscious courses that are designed to be implemented over 2 weeks. There are courses for preschool-aged children all the way through High School.

Conscious Lessons are supplemental lessons for classroom or homeschool students and they are designed to be taught over 2-5 days. These are good for PreK-2nd grade.

Origins Curriculum provides the skills, strategies, and content for homeschool educators and students to decide what works for them, and then find the appropriate materials based on what we suggest.

Our curriculum considers Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences:

• Naturalist - Origins Curriculum is centered around nature and strives to give students a robust understanding of the natural world around them. Additionally, opportunities to take learning outside are provided every month.
• Visual/Spatial - Students are provided with opportunities to move and experience their world while being out in the world, not just learning about it on screens. Art lessons and suggested projects are provided every month so students can learn and express themselves through the visual arts. Additionally, strategies to help visual learners are provided in most lessons. 
• Linguistic - The newly designed curriculum provides the skills and strategies students need to become strong readers and writers so they can confidently follow their learning interests.
• Logical/Mathematical - Each biome will be taught in its component parts and then put together through concepts of interconnection and systems thinking, to help ensure a deeper understanding of the world we live in.
• Bodily/Kinesthetic - Origins Curriculum believes that students learn best through direct experience with the world. Whether it’s observing nature on a hike or a neighborhood walk, conducting science experiments, or creating and sharing art and writing, Origins gets students involved in their world.
• Musical - New this year, Origins Curriculum will have lessons on the music from biomes around the world as well as the sounds of the natural world.
• Intrapersonal and Interpersonal - Origins Curriculum has lessons dedicated to mindfulness to help students understand their socio-emotional world and the socio-emotional world of others. These concepts are woven throughout the curriculum as well to help students develop empathy for all the living and nonliving parts of our beautiful planet. Through this empathy, we hope students learn to care for others and protect planet Earth.

Origins Curriculum offers formal assessments that focus primarily on self-assessment and student growth by comparing the student’s beginning and ending skill and ability. Our formal assessments have been designed to act efficiently for students that are required to take standardized state tests due to homeschooling laws. 

You will see more assessment tools in the 2023-24 curriculum.

You don't need a formal educational background, you just need the willingness, confidence, and sometimes a little support.

Origins Curriculum is research-based and standards informed so you don’t have to worry about not having an education background. Lessons in the core subjects teach the foundational skills your student needs to pursue their interests and passions. For example, reading lessons explicitly teach the skills and strategies to not only decode texts but comprehend them.

In our Homeschool Bundles you’ll find things like: 

• Focal Point Tools

- Opening/Closing Guides and suggestions to begin and end learning sessions.
- Transition Tools

• Mindfulness Tools
• Social-Emotional Support Tools
• Yoga
• Homeschool Educator Resources

- Educator Planners
- Student Planners
- Portfolio Guide
- Sample Letter-Intent to Homeschool

• Posters
• Community Resources

All of these tools and resources are available to support you in homeschooling your student, and we are too! 

1. Login into your account and click the circular icon in the top right hand corner of your screen.
2. Click settings
3. Click purchase history
4. Then click the drop down that says "view all"
5. Download or view your receipts and transaction history as needed

If you need further support, please email customer service directly at [email protected]

Yes, we are able to pause your subscription.

After we’ve paused your account you will no longer have access to the dashboard and content there. So you will need to make sure to download all the content you would like to hold onto for this paused time.

Along with access, payments will also be paused. (We are not able to prorate or offer any refunds based on when you choose to pause)

We will add a tag to your account to keep track and wait to hear from you in the future to reactivate your account.

If you want to pause your subscription, you will need to contact us requesting this and we will take care of it within 7 business days.
Please note that you will need to track when your next auto pay will happen and make sure to reach out well in advance of that next charge.

The lenses through which the study is done will be the same between grade levels, but the content is an entirely different biome. Each year we dive into a different biome to study the regions in depth. While some of the lesson titles may be the same or similar, the content and area of study is completely different.

If you wish to cancel your subscription to Origins Curriculum, fill out and submit a cancellation request by CLICKING HERE. In order to prevent an additional billing cycle, you must reach out at least seven (7) business days prior to your subscription renewal date.

Our team will guide you through the cancellation process and answer any questions you might have. We will also confirm the successful cancellation of your subscription by email. Please note that once cancelled, you will lose access to the dashboard and content. You mus download any content you wish to keep.

If we receive a cancellation request less than seven (7) business days before your renewal date, your subscription will be scheduled for cancellation after the next billing cycle. This means you will be billed once more and retain access to Origins Curriculum for the duration of the following billing period.

Due to the nature of digital and downloadable content, no refunds or credits are permitted.  

Our Emergent Reading curriculum is a resource for budding readers, developed with Pre-K through first grade students in mind. Each level introduces and builds on early reading skills and concepts, from letter recognition and identifying single phonemes (sounds) to decoding and reading words and sentences with learned sounds. The curriculum is included with each month’s Kindergarten and first grade homeschool curriculum, and includes a workbook with ten lessons and corresponding student materials. The lessons and materials contain student-friendly games and activities, including instructor-led phonemic- and phonological-awareness activities, letter and sound recognition cards, printables, and three original decodable texts with comprehension questions. Origins’ decodable texts are books that are written to progressively include the letters and sounds that your budding reader learns. They provide an opportunity for your student to be “a reader” from the first reading lesson. Our Emergent Reading curriculum is meant to foster a love for books and reading, and is adaptable based on each students’ unique development, interest level, and pace of learning.

Origins Curriculum developers designed the lessons so that any book on the lesson topics will suffice. We know not everyone has the same access to public libraries and books, and we want you to be able to use what you have. 

That being said, not every library has the same materials. So here are some articles about ways to get non-resident library cards and gain access to more books:  

Some of these even accept international patrons. These services are only for ebooks though. Before paying, people should browse the ebook catalogs to see if the books they want are available. 

Once you've journeyed with us for a full year and reached the 12th month of your subscription, you'll be prompted to complete a short assessment. This is a quick process to ensure that the content has been comprehensively covered.

Upon successful submission of this assessment:

Current Subscribers: You will automatically gain access to the next grade level in your dashboard. As a bonus, if you've been with us continually for the previous 12 months, you will retain access to the completed grade level as well.

Paused or Cancelled Subscriptions: If at any point you choose to pause or cancel your subscription, please note that access to the previous year's content will be revoked. You will, however, still be able to access the new grade level content when you resume.

Origins Curriculum is unschooling-inspired and research-based. We take a student-centered and interdisciplinary approach using project-based activities. We support emergent learning, while providing direction and guidance.

We include all of Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences, and we incorporate Bloom's Taxonomy in addition to Origins own Eco-literacy and Mindfulness based Conscious Curriculum.

Movement provides opportunities to take part in physical exertion that can help us expel energy, strengthen our bodies, and calm our minds. We offer a variety of yoga-inspired videos and other movement-related content to ground and center your student's feelings and focus.

Reading provides foundational skills and strategies for the study of language for your student to become a confident reader. Your student will be empowered to independently explore subjects that ignite their passions.

Writing provides foundational skills and strategies for your student to meaningfully share ideas, express themselves, and connect with others and the world.

Culture & Society provides a chance to explore ourselves and others through the study of human culture and history.  This study pushes your student to think  both critically and creatively, so they can imagine and take part in a better future. 

Fine Arts provides a broad perspective on art forms including music, theater, literature, sculpture, and visual art. Activities call for a multitude of mediums and the study of different artists. Students can find pride in themselves and respect for others.

Nutrition provides students with the chance to diversify their taste buds, observe the food available to them, categorize foods, and learn about food in a threat free environment. Food is a major component of bringing people together and cultural identity, and plays a pivotal role in relationships to self and others.

Science provides observation and experimentation to inform knowledge of physical science and life science. From body systems and self care, through food chains and ecosystems, to life cycles and climate change, students recognize the important role they play in the future of our world.

Mathematics provides a foundation of number sense, operations, measurement, data analysis, algebraic thinking, geometry, and spatial reasoning. A focus on real world applications provides meaning and context.

Mindfulness provides opportunities to practice presence and garner self awareness through emotions, empathy, respect, self concept, self regulation, likes and dislikes, gratitude, affirmations, sound healing, and self esteem.

Does Origins Curriculum include History? 

We provides Culture & Society lessons that focus on social issues, both current and historical, as they largely relate to eco-literacy. Many of our reading and writing lessons equip your student with the ability to critically engage with historical texts. The lessons are designed for you to choose the reading material and topics you want your student to learn about at any given point in their educational journey. We believe that an honest and transparent history needs to be shared. 

As Origins Curriculum continues to grow, we hope to offer supplementary history lessons that will provide you with the framework to educate your student about history in a meaningful way. 

Currently we do not have a way to automatically transition you to the next grade level. 

Each student is working through the curriculum content at their own pace, so whenever the student is finished or whenever you’re ready to move onto the next grade level, you’ll need to email us so we can assist.
If you have been a subscriber and completed all 12 months of one grade, you can reach out to us and request the next grade. Doing this will allow you to keep access to your previous grade and keep it stored on your dashboard along with the new grade level (this way you won’t have to download all of that content).

If you have not completed all 12 months of one grade, you would reach out and we would cancel your previous subscription (and would need to download the content to keep it and you would sign up for the new grade level.

Currently our Preschool Curriculum is written specifically for schools and Preschool Educators with groups or classes in mind. This curriculum will currently suffice for any preschool-aged child though, even in a homeschool setting. The group activities can be differentiated for homeschooling by working with other children (siblings or friends), or working with your child as a pair. 

We will eventually be adapting this curriculum so that the voice addresses Homeschool Educators and children specifically. 

If you’re interested in seeing if our current curriculum will work for your 3-5 year old, we suggest subscribing for a free trial of any of our preschool bundles: Seed, Sprout, or Bloom. 

New curriculum is released based upon when you initially purchase your subscription. Immediately upon purchasing you will have access to month 1 and all static resources on the dashboard. 

Then after that new curriculum content will be released each month along your unique timeline.

We currently have a reading program that is included in our Premium Bundle for Kindergarten through 1st grade.

This Reading Program consists of 10 levels and has 2 main components:

1. Emergent Reading Curriculum
2. Decodables (Beginner Reader Books)

These levels will be released as the months progress, and you’ll begin with Level 0. 

If you have the Homeschool Premium Bundle for 2nd-5th and would like to utilize this reading program for your student, please contact us. 

We currently have some foundational handwriting resources that are included in our Homeschool Premium K/1st grade subscription. We plan to add these to our store in the near future, but for our other Premium subscriptions these resources are available upon request. If your student is in 2nd-5th and needs help with writing practice, just contact us and we’ll send what resources we have to you. 

An Origins lesson really takes as long as you need it to. It all depends on the engagement of your student and the flow of the day. You might finish a lesson in one day, or you can deep dive and stretch it out to last a week if your child is really interested, and then repeat it any time throughout the year using different supporting books and resources. This deeper exploration is truly where magic is found. Origins Curriculum developers designed the lessons so that any book on the lesson topics will suffice. We know not everyone has the same access to public libraries and books, and we want you to be able to use what you have. Outdoor extensions and mindful reminders are woven throughout Origins Curriculum, so we naturally encourage you to slow down and take your time to really dive into the curriculum content and explore.

Origins Curriculum provides the skills, strategies, and content for homeschool educators and students to decide what works for them, and then find the appropriate materials based off of what we suggest.

Our curriculum considers Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences:

• Naturalist - Origins Curriculum is centered around nature and strives to give students a robust understanding of the natural world around them. Additionally, opportunities to take learning outside are provided every month.
• Visual/Spatial - Students are provided with opportunities to move and experience their world while being out in the world, not just learning about it on screens. Art lessons and suggested projects are provided every month so students can learn and express themselves through the visual arts. Additionally, strategies to help visual learners are provided in most lessons. 
• Linguistic - The newly designed curriculum provides the skills and strategies students need to become strong readers and writers so they can confidently follow their learning interests.
• Logical/Mathematical - Each biome will be taught in its component parts and then put together through concepts of interconnection and systems thinking, to help ensure a deeper understanding of the world we live in.
• Bodily/Kinesthetic - Origins Curriculum believes that students learn best through direct experience with the world. Whether it’s observing nature on a hike or a neighborhood walk, conducting science experiments, or creating and sharing art and writing, Origins gets students involved in their world.
• Musical - New this year, Origins Curriculum will have lessons on the music from biomes around the world as well as the sounds of the natural world.
• Intrapersonal and Interpersonal - Origins Curriculum has lessons dedicated to mindfulness to help students understand their socio-emotional world and the socio-emotional world of others. These concepts are woven throughout the curriculum as well to help students develop empathy for all the living and nonliving parts of our beautiful planet. Through this empathy, we hope students learn to care for others and protect planet Earth.

Origins Curriculum offers formal assessments that focus primarily on self-assessment and student growth by comparing the student’s beginning and ending skill and ability. Our formal assessments have been designed to act efficiently for students that are required to take standardized state tests due to homeschooling laws.

You will see more assessment tools in the 2023-24 curriculum.

Yes we do! You can check out our Homeschool 101 section. Please also feel free to contact us directly if you need further guidance or support. 

You do not! You just need the willingness, confidence, and sometimes a little support.

Origins Curriculum is research-based and standards informed so you don’t have to worry about not having an education background. Lessons in the core subjects teach the foundational skills your student needs to pursue their interests and passions. For example, reading lessons explicitly teach the skills and strategies to not only decode texts but to comprehend them.

In our Homeschool Premium Bundle you’ll find things like: 

• Focal Point Tools
  • Opening/Closing Guides and suggestions to begin and end learning sessions.
  • Transition Tools
• Mindfulness Tools
• Social-Emotional Support Tools
• Yoga
• Homeschool Educator Resources
  • Educator Planners
  • Student Planners
  • Portfolio Guide
  • Sample Letter-Intent to Homeschool 
  • Tracking Tools
• Posters
• Community Resources

All of these tools and resources are available to support you in homeschooling your student, and we are too! 

Each state is different when it comes to what is required, and researching and locating all of the information can sometimes be daunting.

Origins Curriculum has created resources for you, check out our Homeschool 101 section to learn what your state requires for you to homeschool. We give you a basic overview of the following: 

• Schooling Options
• Teaching Qualifications
• School Ages
• Curriculum Requirements
• Assessment
• Immunization
• Notification
• Attendance
• State Records
• Days or Hours
• Disabilities
• Athletics
• Part-time enrollment
• Re-enrollment
• Public School 
• Graduation

Origins Curriculum covers all subjects that you find in public school plus many more! 

*See “What subjects are covered?” in the Homeschool FAQ section for further details. 

This something that varies from state to state. Many times, it will come down to the specific district that you live in and what they require for re-enrollment. The best way to find out is to call your local superintendent's office and ask what their specific requirements are.

Origins provides educator and student planners to track subjects, lessons/activities, and hours to make this easier. We also provide a portfolio guide in case your state requires a portfolio submission. 

It can be hard to adjust when you go from public school to homeschool, but the simple answer to this question is no. Some states will require a set number of hours of instruction per day, but they do not dictate when those hours need to be. Many states only require you to meet the annual requirement of hours and days of instruction, with no set standard of when those hours need to be or what days you need to have instruction on.

It is best to keep documentation of when you hold instruction and what you are teaching during that time by using our planners and resources that are included in the Homeschool Premium Bundle. 

Under your Homeschool Educator Resources you will find sample schedules in "Planning Supports". 

Homeschool is such a great way to practice emergent learning. Emergent learning is when we allow a student’s interests and abilities to guide their learning. You can follow any outline that works for your family. Origins gives you the freedom to be student-led and to allow your student’s natural instincts and interests to bloom.

There are so many ways to show interest in your student’s world. You can check out books on topics they love, visit museums (virtually or in person) that involve their interests. You can even encourage your student to decide which activities to share with you. One of the most important ways of participating in your student’s interests is to listen to them. This means creating space for them to talk and share while you listen, refraining from the urge to direct or evaluate their thinking.

Not at all! We actually encourage you to get out and explore the real world as much as possible—this can be a fantastic way to reinforce learning and make it more concrete for students. 

Here are some examples of extending learning outside the home and other educational opportunities: 

1. First consider your student’s interests and go to places that support that and provide opportunities for exploration. 
2. Museums
3. Art Galleries
4. Aquariums
5. Wilderness areas of National Parks
6. Local parks
7. Your backyard
8. Community Venues and Services
9. Theaters
10. Sport Events
11. Student Labs and Exploratory Observatories
12. Libraries
13. Any businesses of interest that offer tours or will let students shadow
14. College campuses 
15. Farms or Community Gardens 
16. Animal Shelters or Sanctuaries 
17. Farmer’s Markets

There are so many opportunities for learning and exploration. We can include our students when we’re doing important tasks (as long as it’s age appropriate of course), like building or creating things, applying for loans, grants, other services, or even doing our taxes. 

We may often feel as though it will take less time if we just do it ourselves, but there may eventually come a time when our students nevertheless ask us how to do something in the future. Students will be much more prepared for the real world when we involve them in it. These experiences are also a wonderful opportunity for connection and bonding. Around every corner is a potential learning opportunity—use it! 

There is a page in the Home Educators Guide that explains materials and supplies in depth. This can be found under the “Welcome Homeschool Educator” section on your dashboard when you login.  Origins really only requires normal school supplies, access to internet and a printer, and potentially a library (if a local library is unavailable, many of the books can be found to view or purchase online). The books in our book list are widely available and the lessons can be done with a variety of books. 

Technology is a great addition to any learning experience. This is a tool that can open doors for your children and allow them to explore new places. As the homeschool educator you can make the call on how much or how little. Our belief is that repeated and prolonged exposure to nature and the outdoors is one the most powerful tools in helping to foster creative and happy learning. This can help to create balance with the exposure and use of technology. 

The lenses through which the study is done will be the same between grade levels, but the content is an entirely different biome. Each year we dive into a different biome to study the regions in depth. While some of the lesson titles may be the same or similar, the content and area of study is completely different.

If your student is progressing faster or more slowly than anticipated within a grade level, you can reach out to Customer Service and request a different grade level at any time. 

Short answer is, yes. The Preschool Classroom curriculum can be adapted for ages 3-5 at home.

Long answer: The Preschool Classroom curriculum is written for Preschool Classroom Educators, so that means it includes details on classroom arrangement, group activities, and classroom culture. Any aspects of this curriculum that are not applicable to you at home can be omitted or simply adapted. For example, if there is a group or class activity, you can do this as a pair with you and your child, as a family, with friends, or even in a small pod. 

There are also resources like our Parent Newsletter, which has great information that you can still use, but you just won’t be sending it home like a teacher would. This resource could also be used by sending it to other family members to keep them informed, and to help them reinforce learning when the child is in their care. 

• For Seed Basic Bundle ($15/month) you receive 4 lesson plans and a thematic project, as well as some basic teacher resources like planners. The Basic Bundle is great if you need supplemental curriculum or you just wanna check out a few lessons before committing to something more. 
• For Bloom Premium Bundle ($65/month) everything is included. This is the package that has a full lesson plan packet, curriculum guide, social-emotional support and mindfulness tools, movement videos and resources, posters, and even pre-filled planners and parent newsletters to save you time. This bundle is for schools and home educators that want to take conscious learning to the next level!

The beauty of teaching a class of unique individuals, can also be the challenge. A number of learning styles and a variety of developmental stages can be found in a single classroom of children. Origins’ lesson plans are designed to meet the needs of all types of learners: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, logical, social, solitary, and naturalistic. Lessons also encompass more than one subject at a time, to mirror real life and to ignite interest from multiple angles.

Origins Curriculum supports different learning styles and abilities, we offer suggestions within our lesson plans and curriculum guide. We understand that everyone learns and experiences the world in their own unique way. We are always searching for creative ways to adapt classroom materials, activities and learning centers to meet the needs of all of our students.

 Here are some pointers from our Professional Educators:

• A good daily schedule leaves room for flexibility and can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individual children.
• An intentional and adaptable teacher observes the children in their care closely and follows their lead, allowing for space and flexibility throughout the day. This may look different in each classroom, and may vary from one day to the next depending on the needs, interest, and energy levels of the children on any particular day.
• Sometimes this may mean providing acceptable alternatives to large group or teacher led activities, or strategically seating children in a way that optimizes their chances for success. Other times it may mean providing sensory breaks or changing plans entirely. On occasion, there may be a need to make structural changes to a classroom in order to accommodate children with physical limitations.
• When we make these changes, it is important to verbalize that we too are flexible, and to provide examples of the ways in which we can be adaptable and how it benefits our lives. You can provide children with a visual by explaining how you use your “flexible brain”, like flexible bodies, to make changes—this will help students make deeper connections about adaptability.
• Our students are constantly watching us as we model our own adaptability, and we empower our students to utilize their own when we acknowledge ours.
• We also suggest that teachers become trauma-informed and take into account children’s physical, mental, and cultural differences.

Cognitive lessons provide a variety of stimulation geared towards enhancing neurological skills such as imagination, attention, resilience, reflection, interpretation, initiative, self direction, logical reasoning, critical thinking, and engineering. Such lessons may include completing or creating a puzzle and sequencing or ordering events.

Mindfulness lessons provide opportunities to practice presence and garner self awareness through emotions, empathy, respect, self concept, self regulation, likes and dislikes, gratitude, affirmations, sound healing, and self esteem. In preschool we focus on calming strategies, identifying how we feel, and establishing self concept.

Sensory Exploration encourages preschoolers to hone all of the senses through tactile, auditory, visual, gustatory, and olfactory exploration. Children use their senses to connect with and make sense of the world around them.  Some of our sensory exploration lessons can get messy, but that’s where the fun comes in!

Food & Nutrition lessons give students the chance to diversify their taste buds, observe the food available to them, categorize foods, and learn about food in a threat free environment. Food is a major component of bringing people together and cultural identity, and plays a pivotal role in relationships to self and others.

Fine Arts lessons expose children to a broad perspective on art forms including music, theater, literature, sculpture, and visual art. Activities call for a multitude of mediums and the study of different artists. Students can find pride in themselves and respect for others.

Science lessons provide observation and experimentation to inform knowledge of physical science and life science. From body systems and self care, through food chains and ecosystems, to life cycles and climate change, students recognize the important role they play in the future of our world.

Mathematics lessons provide a foundation of number sense, operations, measurement, data analysis, algebraic thinking, geometry, and spatial reasoning. A focus on real world applications provides meaning and context through math tasks and math center games.

Social Studies lessons deliver a scope of information concerning people and their interaction with society and culture through the lenses of community, spatial exploration, conservation, resources, pollution, sustainability, Indigenous cultures, global warming, farm to table and seed to store concepts, and wants versus needs.

Fine Motor helps and encourages young children to exercise their fine motor strength is important for writing, typing, tying shoes, buttoning buttons, using scissors, and eating.  Origins curriculum provides many opportunities for fine motor exercise through practicing cutting, playing with play dough, or tracing.

Social-Emotional lessons teach preschoolers to identify and talk about emotions. We let children explore various tools for self regulation, like breathing exercises, movement, discussion, and calming activities.  Origins encourages an openness and appreciation for the broad spectrum of emotions humans are able to experience.

Literacy lessons teach preschoolers to identify and talk about emotions.  We let children explore various tools for self regulation, like breathing exercises, movement, discussion, and calming activities.  Origins encourages an openness and appreciation for the broad spectrum of emotions humans are able to experience.

Each month with our Bloom Bundle, you receive a new lesson plan packet that includes corresponding resources and a curriculum guide. You may also find additional resources that support the curriculum for that month.

With Seed Basic Bundle, you receive a sample of the lessons and resources for the month.

*You can also see the FAQ “What is the difference between Seed and Bloom Bundles?” for further details.  

Lesson Plan Packet 

• 20 pre-written lesson plans
• Ready-to-print lesson supplements
• Additional materials, activities, inspiration and ideas
• Suggested scaffolds and modifications for each lesson

Curriculum Guide

• Instructions & Teacher Resources
• Books and Supplies Needed
• Pre-filled (and blank) Weekly Planners
• Food and Nutrition
• Biomimicry in the Classroom
• Heart Poems
• Vocabulary Images
• Parent Newsletter
• Improving Your Child Care Center
• Information: Math and Play Centers
• Information: Outdoor Extensions, Science Notebooks, and Circle Time
• Blank Assessment Checklists

And of course, on your dashboard you will always have access to your Welcome Preschool Educator Guide, the Year At A Glance, planners, visual aids like posters, social-emotional support and mindfulness tools, yoga & movement videos, training videos (soon to be updated), and access to our forum and private facebook groups. 

New curriculum is released based upon when you initially purchase your subscription. Immediately upon purchasing you will have access to month 1 and all static resources on the dashboard. 

We currently have a reading program that is included in our Bloom Premium Bundle and Homeschool K-1st grade subscriptions. If you have a 2nd -5th grader that needs the program you can request it and we can add it to your dashboard. The Reading Curriculum can be found under “Reading Resources.”

This Reading Program consists of 10 levels and has 2 main components:

1. Emergent Reading Curriculum
2. Decodables (Beginner Reader Books)

These levels will be released as the months progress, and you will begin with level 0. 

This reading curriculum can be purchased in our store. 

We currently have some foundational handwriting resources that are included in our Bloom subscription as well as K-1st grade and they are available in the store. If you have our Seed Bundle and your student needs help with writing practice, just contact us and we can work with you. 

An Origins Lesson really takes as long as you need it to. It all depends on the engagement of your students and the flow of the day. You might finish a lesson in one day, or you can deep dive and stretch it out to last a week if your students are really interested. You can also repeat it any time throughout the year using different supporting books and resources. This deeper exploration is truly where magic is found.

Origins Curriculum developers designed the lessons so that any book on the lesson topics will suffice. We know not everyone has the same access to public libraries and books, and we want you to be able to use what you have. Outdoor extensions and mindful reminders are woven throughout Origins Curriculum, so we naturally encourage you to slow down and take your time to really dive into the curriculum content and explore.

In our Bloom Bundle we currently provide you with 3 different assessments: 

1. The Developmental Checklist-this is for ages 3-5. 
2. The Co-Active Assessment-this is to be done alongside your student or child and requires their participation. 
3. The Comprehensive Preschool Assessment-this is broken down into Origins’ subjects or categories of learning. This can be done through both observation and student/child participation in activities demonstrating skills. 

The Developmental Checklist can be done at the beginning of the year, and repeatedly if there are concerns. Please contact your local childcare resource and referral agency, and/or your local CDC (Child Development Center) for additional resources and help. *Remember a wide range of ability and skill is expected.

The Co-Active Assessment can be done 3 times per year (we suggest before the Comprehensive Preschool Assessment, CPA) because it will allow you to observe specific skills, which will help you fill out the CPA. The Co-Active Assessment includes things like color, shape, number, and upper/lowercase letter recognition, phonics, patterns, following a dotted-line, and writing their name. 

The Comprehensive Preschool Assessment  is also suggested to be done 3 times per year. This includes the following categories of learning: 

• Cognitive
• Language & Communication 
• Emotional Development
• Social Development
• Health, Nutrition, & Safety
• Mindfulness
• Physical Development
• Basic Geometry & Spatial Awareness 
• Mathematics
• Sciences
• Eco-Literacy 
• Social Studies
• The Arts
• Reading & Literacy 

Within the Curriculum Guide, which will be located in the “Curriculum” section on your dashboard, you will find a document called “Parent Newsletter” at the end of the guide. This contains an overview to share with parents/guardians, weekly suggestions to reinforce learning at home, and a blank section for preschool updates and important dates. 

*This is only available to Bloom  subscribers. 

Currently our Preschool Curriculum is written specifically for Preschool Educators with groups or classes in mind. This curriculum will currently suffice for any preschool-aged child though, even in a homeschool setting. The group activities can be differentiated for homeschooling by working with other children (siblings or friends), or working with your child as a pair. 

We will eventually be adapting this curriculum so that the voice addresses Homeschool Educators and children specifically. 

If you’re interested in seeing if our current curriculum will work for your 3-5 year old, we suggest subscribing for a free trial of any of our preschool bundles: Seed, Sprout, or Bloom.