By Pandia Press·Science - Life · Science - Earth & Environment · Science - Physics · Science - Chemistry · Science - Astronomy · Science - Biology · Mathematics · Scientific Method
7 video reviews: 5 positive
Real Science Odyssey, from secular publisher Pandia Press, earns consistently positive reviews at the elementary level — with the caveat that most of the firsthand praise comes from a single family that has used it from roughly kindergarten through second grade, moving through life science into astronomy and planning to continue with earth and environment. What that family praises most is the format: every topic opens with a short reading, followed by a menu of hands-on labs, and the parent simply picks the one or two that fit the week. They call it easy to set up, not overwhelming, and rigorous without killing a kid's love of science. A homeschool retailer's walkthrough echoes the appeal: level one (roughly grades 1 through 5 or 6) is a streamlined all-in-one book covering astronomy, biology, earth and environment, chemistry, and physics, with optional lab kits for the hard-to-find supplies and a suggested schedule of 45-60 minutes twice a week across 36 weeks. Reviewers flag two practical caveats. First, some labs call for supplies you must buy or conditions you can't control — a live plant, even a fish, or being outside at 8 p.m. for astronomy — and parents routinely skip or substitute those. Second, the upper-level lineup is thin: one secular-science shopper passed on level two because, having already done biology and not wanting astronomy, there simply wasn't much left to choose from. Note that this is openly secular material — it includes evolution and is classified secular rather than neutral — which the reviewers here treat as a selling point.
Synthesized from 7 independent video reviews — every claim sourced from what real homeschool parents said on camera.
Secular homeschooling families with elementary-aged kids who want simple, hands-on science — a short reading plus pick-and-choose labs — that one parent can easily run.
Families who want faith-neutral content, or those needing a broad menu of middle- and high-school courses, since level two offers only a few topics.
Homeschool science curriculum #teacherlife #homeschooling #curriculum
Thoughts of a Secular Homeschooling Mom: Curriculum review, preschool, balancing motherhood If you’ve ever wondered what a day in the life of a secular homeschooling mom who also works from home looks like, welcome! From hands on learning and fun, to sharing how I try and balance motherhood and making time for hobbies this vlog gives you an honest peak in a non aesthetic real life family. ✨ Highlights ✨ - second grade lessons - preschool activities - curriculum review and thoughts - marriage life Follow on IG for daily videos! https://www.instagram.com/celenakinsey?igsh=MWx1bWx0a3p0MW9kbA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr 📚CURRICULUMS for second grade Some of these links are affiliate links so I do get a small commission when you click on them Spelling: All About Spelling- https://www.allaboutlearningpress.net/go.php?id=2959 Reading: Brave Writer Darts (this link gives you $10 off!)- https://bravewriter.refr.cc/brave-writer/u/celenak?s=sp&t=cp (We are doing Ra The Mighty: Cat Detective- you can get the book from amazon https://amzn.to/45zfpQ2 Writing: Handwriting without tears cursive- https://amzn.to/3UN8s7E Writing print- https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2nd-Grade-Opinion-Narrative-and-Informative-Writing-Curriculum-with-Prompts-7798694 I also have Write by Number- https://writebynumber.com/ but it’s much more technical so I recommend the print one from TPT Grammar: MCT Island Level- https://www.rfwp.com/mct-language-arts/seven-levels/level-1-the-island-level/ Math: Beast Academy- https://beastacademy.com/ Science: Real Science Odyssey- https://www.pandiapress.com/real-science-odyssey/ref/203/#rso-level1 (I am doing Astronomy and potentially Earth Science this year) Social Studies: Core Knowledge (FREE) - https://www.coreknowledge.org/download-free-curriculum/ Art: Soul Sparklettes- https://soul-sparklettes-art-llc.mykajabi.com/a/2148144642/cAaDFLm4 Music: Stageworthy by Widy- https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/stageworthy-by-widy-performing-arts-education Health: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2nd-Grade-Health-Curriculum-Full-Year-Health-Curriculum-for-Print-and-Online-13098256 If you love family activities, homeschooling and just real life moments don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to join in on this journey! #homeschooling #preschool #dayinmylife #motherhood #secularhomeschool
🧪🔬 Still Searching For Secular Science? | Best Homeschool Resources & Tips 🔬🧪 Are you still on the hunt for reliable secular science resources for homeschooling? Me too! Look no further! In this video, we dive deep into the challenges homeschooling parents face when seeking quality secular science materials and provide solutions that'll make your journey easier. Sourced from your recommendations! 🔍 Struggling to find trustworthy secular science options? You're not alone. Join us as we explore the maze of homeschooling resources and recommend top-notch picks straight from you! 📚 From comprehensive curriculum packages to engaging online platforms, we've curated a list of must-look resources tailored for secular homeschoolers. 🌟 Don't let the challenges of finding secular science materials dampen your homeschooling journey. With recommendations and insights, we'll navigate the landscape with confidence and unlock enriching educational experiences for our children. 🔔 Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications to stay updated on the latest homeschooling tips, resources, and inspiration. Let's embark on this exciting educational adventure together! #StillSearchingForSecularScience #MakingEverydayMagic #SecularScience -💖Shanna Just a mama making magic! Links: Middle School Chemistry https://www.acs.org/middleschoolchemistry.html Blossom&Root https://blossomandroot.com/ Science Mom https://science.mom/ Build Your Library https://buildyourlibrary.com/ BookShark https://www.bookshark.com/ Elevate Science https://homeschool.savvas.com/index.cfm?locator=PS3dVx Ellen McHenry's Basement Workshop https://ellenjmchenry.com/ The Amoeba Sisters https://www.amoebasisters.com/ Real Science Odyssey https://www.pandiapress.com/real-science-odyssey/ Core Knowledge https://www.coreknowledge.org/ Be sure to share the magic and subscribe for more magic https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHXtQS5-ylYroyA8dWpANg?sub_confirmation=1 0:00 Intro 0:58 I asked, You Answered! 1:39 My Selection Process 3:25 What We Have Done This Year 4:45 Science Suggestions 4:51 Blossom & Root 7:04 Science Mom 9:09 Build Your Library 10:03 BookShark 11:25 Elevate Science 12:09 Ellen McHenry’s Basement Workshop 12:54 The Amoeba Sisters 13:45 Real Science Odyssey 14:10 Core Knowledge 14:30 What I Am Leaning Toward 14:47 Middle School Chemistry 21:28 Conclusion 🎞More Magic Vids you may like: *https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHXtQS5-ylYroyA8dWpANg/videos 🎟See the Rest of the Playlist Here: * https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzzGqiUPPglqdQCH9w3Lyeux_YOQ95Z3P 🎇More Magic Blog: https://makingeverydaymagic.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/makingeverydaymagic/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/makingeverydaymagic/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/makingeverydaymagic/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/EverydayShanna Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/makingeverydaymagic 💌 Contact Directly: hello@makingeverydaymagic.com 🛒 Shop my Favorites https://www.amazon.com/shop/makingeverydaymagic https://makingeverydaymagic.com/favorites/ ✨DISCLOSURE Thank you for listening to my honest opinions and using them to decide on your future purchases. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information. By sharing the Magic, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. You will never see any difference in the checkout process unless I can secure a magical discount or offer. Thank you for your Magical Support! Audio Used With Permission from YouTube or AudioHero
Real- Life Secular Homeschool Day | Lessons, Curriculum Review, and Socializing Join us for a day in our homeschooling life! From hands-on learning and outdoor adventures to cozy reading time and rock climbing fun, I’m sharing how we make learning an everyday adventure. In this video, you’ll get a peek into our routine, the curriculums we love, and the ways we bring lessons to life. ✨ Highlights: * Morning lessons * A walk through of some of my favorite curriculums * Hands-on learning with real-life applications School Curriculum List: 1st grade Reading and Writing Logic of English Foundations (level C&D) https://store.logicofenglish.com/coll... Writing: Handwriting without Tears https://amzn.to/3TvUwih Mathematics Math with Confidence- https://amzn.to/4gjkxuK Supplementing with Beast Academy for an extra challenge https://beastacademy.com/books/level-1 Science Real Science Odyssey- Life Science https://www.pandiapress.com/product/r... Social Studies Core Knowledge History & Geography 1st Grade https://www.coreknowledge.org/history... Art Soul Sparklettes Art https://soul-sparklettes-art-llc.mykajabi.com/a/2147908355/cAaDFLm4 Music shorturl.at/FIHOS If you love family adventures and real homeschooling moments, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to join us on this journey! 🌟 #homeschooling #dayinmylife #dayinthelife #homeschoolroutine #momvlog #momlife
2025 Lower Elementary Secular Homeschool Curriculum Recap | Walkthrough & Review In this video, I’m recapping our current second grade curriculums for our secular homeschooling family. I share reasons why we love it, why it works well, and I give you a sneak peek into all of them! Whether you’re new to homeschooling or searching for fresh secular options, this homeschool recap should help you in choosing a curriculum that may work for your lower elementary student I have a substack post with a huge curriculum roundup- https://open.substack.com/pub/celenak... 📚CURRICULUMS: Some of these links are affiliate links so I do get a small commission when you click on them Spelling: All About Spelling- https://www.allaboutlearningpress.net/go.php?id=2959 Reading: Brave Writer Darts https://bravewriter.refr.cc/brave-writer/u/celenak?s=sp&t=cp Writing: Handwriting without tears cursive- https://amzn.to/3UN8s7E Writing print- https://tinyurl.com/35vbct29 Grammar: MCT Island Level- https://www.rfwp.com/mct-language-arts/seven-levels/level-1-the-island-level/ Math: Beast Academy- https://beastacademy.com/ Math with confidence second grade- https://amzn.to/48NRn43 Science: Real Science Odyssey- pandiapress.com/products/real-science-odyssey-astronomy-1?ref=Celena D Kinsey (I am doing Astronomy) Social Studies: Core Knowledge (FREE) - https://www.coreknowledge.org/download-free-curriculum/ Storylark- https://storylarkroad.com/?ref=CELENAKINSEY Art: Soul Sparklettes- https://soul-sparklettes-art-llc.mykajabi.com/a/2148144642/cAaDFLm4 Music: Stageworthy by Widy- https://tinyurl.com/2p9nr5bh Health https://tinyurl.com/33r6vdyu ✅ Subscribe for more secular homeschool tips, curriculum reviews, and day in the life videos! Follow Me: Instagram - www.instagram.com/celenakinsey Tiktok - www.tiktok.com/@casakinsey Substack - https://substack.com/@celenakinsey #homeschooling #homeschool #homeschoolcurriculum #secularhomeschool #curriculum
History Quest from Pandia Press: Secular Homeschool Curriculum Review Learn more about History Quest here: https://myhomeschoolwithaview.com/history-quest-from-pandia-press/ Links in this description are affiliate. History Quest: https://www.pandiapress.com/history-quest/ref/70/?campaign=YoutubeReview All Natural Homeschool Mug: https://my-homeschool-with-a-view.creator-spring.com/listing/all-natural-homeschool?product=658
Differences among secular science curriculum - S2E23 Sorting out the differences between secular science curriculum that is available for homeschoolers can be a challenge. What curriculum utilizes a Charlotte Mason approach? What about Classical? Are their online options? How demanding are each option going to be on me, as the teacher? These are all great questions and our curriculum consultants look at 6 difference options and discuss their differences. Science Curriculum Comparison Chart https://www.rainbowresource.com/pdfs/resources/Science_CurriculumChart.pdf Download/Request a Curriculum Guide https://www.rainbowresource.com/request-catalog Sassafras Science https://www.rainbowresource.com/sassafras-science Elemental Science https://www.rainbowresource.com/elemental-science Discover! Science https://www.rainbowresource.com/discover-science Elevate Science https://www.rainbowresource.com/elevate-science-homeschool-bundles R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey https://www.rainbowresource.com/r-e-a-l-science-odyssey Primary Science https://www.rainbowresource.com/primary-science 00:00 - What is "secular" science? 01:55 - Sassafras Science 08:09 - Elemental Science 12:49 - Discover! Science 18:12 - Elevate Science 25:02 - R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey 30:23 - Primary Science
“my favorite part about this curriculum is that it is not overwhelming. It is perfect for lower elementary for secularbased homeschooling. I love this. Um, I think it is rigorous without losing a love for science.”
“I think a lot of people are going to like the very streamlined one book approach instead of having a teacher guide, a student guide”
“it's also very friendly for a parent who might not feel like they're sciency, but has very sciency kids”
“for science we use Real Science Odyssey from Pandia Press. Um and I love this especially for lower elementary because it is not super overwhelming”
“there just isn't as much available as there is for the younger kids”
“you do have to buy some things or do some kind of outof pocket um experiments like once they wanted us to buy a fish um and I said no absolutely not so we went to the aquarium instead”
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Yes. A homeschool retailer classifies it as secular rather than neutral because it includes a whole section on evolution, woven throughout the biology course. Reviewers describe Pandia Press as secular materials written specifically for homeschoolers, and one calls the program perfect for lower elementary secular-based homeschooling.
Level one is aimed at roughly grades 1 through 5 or 6; one parent notes her course is intended for first through fourth grade. Level two covers grades 6 through 10. Reviewers say level one scales easily across ages — a parent can write answers for a child who can't handwrite yet.
Level one offers astronomy, biology (life science), earth and environment, chemistry, and physics. Level two offers astronomy, biology, and earth and environment — a thinner lineup that one reviewer found limiting for middle school.
Each topic opens with a short reading that introduces the concept, followed by several hands-on labs — some topics have four or five. Reviewers typically pick the top one or two labs and move on. At level one everything is in a single book; level two splits into a student book and teacher guide and runs more independently.
The suggested schedule is 45 to 60 minutes, twice a week, for 36 weeks. In practice, one lower-elementary family slots science in once a week alongside other subjects and aims for one to two labs a week.
Lab kits are sold covering the hard-to-find items — thermometers, sandpaper, fishing line, a scale, skewers — while the rest is sourced from your kitchen, bathroom, or garage. Some labs call for things like a live plant or a fish; reviewers say they simply skip or substitute those (one family went to the aquarium instead of buying a fish).
Yes — at level one the program is a single book, and you can buy just the consumable student pages separately for your next child, or to keep the main book clean for resale.