Teaching Multiple Young Children at the Same Time

You Asked:

How do I teach a 3- and 5-year-old together? Should I just use a Pre-K curriculum and challenge my older one separately?

Our Answer:

We love this question! First, grab our early education placement tests if you haven't already. Every kiddo is wonderfully different, and knowing where they're at helps set everyone up for success.

Let's say you've already checked and have a preschooler and a kindergartener. Now what? Should you teach the youngest or the oldest, split the difference, or go solo for each?

Good news:

There's no one-size-fits-all answer—and that's the beauty of homeschooling! You get to pick what works best for your crew.

Option 1: Each Kiddo Does Their Own Thing

Our Favorite Way!

Why:

Tailor learning to fit each child just right. You can still combine a subject or two (like STEM or science) when it makes sense. Plus, our free kit customizer makes it super easy.

Pros:

  • Everyone gets what they need
  • Maximum learning, minimum frustration

Cons:

  • It will cost a bit more
  • It feels a little busier at first

(But honestly? Worth it.)

Option 2: Teach to the Youngest

When going slow is a superpower!

Pros:

  • Older child fills in any little gaps
  • Builds big confidence boosts
  • Perfectly paced for the littlest learner

Cons:

  • The older one might be yawning by February

This option works great if your older kiddo needs to firm up fine motor skills or would enjoy an extra-chill year—with a splash of advanced reading and math thrown in!

Option 3: Teach to the Oldest

When you've got a go-getter crew!

Pros:

  • The older child zooms ahead
  • Younger might surprise you by keeping up!

Cons:

  • Littlest could get frustrated or tune out
  • You might need extra "little sibling" versions of a few things

This option can be amazing if your younger child loves chasing after the big kid's lead—or if they're a natural little sponge!

Option 4: Meet Somewhere in the Middle

The Goldilocks approach—just right!

Pros:

  • Your older child builds confidence
  • Your younger child feels challenged (but not crushed)

Cons:

  • Older might get a little bored
  • Younger might have moments of "I can't keep up!"

This solution is often a sweet spot in the early years—especially if you move your older child through the kit in one year and let the younger take two.

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