Homeschool Preschool Supplies (Only the Essentials)

When you search for homeschool preschool supplies, it’s easy to feel like you need to recreate an entire classroom at home. But the truth is, learning in the early years doesn’t take much — just time, curiosity, and a few well-loved tools.

If you’ve been wondering how to start homeschooling preschool, this list keeps it simple. Think crayons over curriculum, baskets over bins, and moments over materials. You don’t need fancy setups or expensive kits to give your child a gentle start.

You just need space to explore together. Here’s a look at the essential supplies that make everyday play and learning flow naturally, without the clutter or overwhelm.

Preschool Homeschool Supplies

Preschool supplies don’t have to fill a room. They just need to invite hands-on learning and curiosity. A few well-chosen tools can turn your kitchen table or living room floor into a space for discovery. Think less about setting up a classroom and more about setting the stage for play.

Start with the Basics You’ll Actually Use Every Day

The best supplies for preschool are the ones that come out again and again. Start with simple materials that invite your child to create, build, and explore. These basics support open-ended play without cluttering your space.

• Crayons, markers, and washable paints
• Paper (plain, construction, or recycled scrap)
• Safety scissors and glue sticks
• Playdough and modeling tools
• A few trays or baskets to keep activities contained

Quick Tip: Keep one art bin you can pull out and put away easily.

 

Tools for Hands-on Learning

Preschoolers learn best by touching, stacking, pouring, and experimenting. These simple tools make it easy to turn everyday play into real learning moments. Mix and match a few of your child’s favorites to keep things fresh and engaging.

• Counting bears, buttons, or small manipulatives
• Blocks or LEGO Duplo
• A sensory bin with rice, beans, or water
• Clipboards, tongs, or tweezers for fine motor play
• Chalkboard, dry-erase board, or magnetic board for letters and doodles

 

A Cozy Reading Corner

Every homeschool day needs a quiet place to slow down and connect. A simple reading corner gives your child a calm spot to rest, imagine, and fall in love with stories. Keep it soft, inviting, and easy to change with the seasons.

• Basket of picture books and story collections
• A soft blanket or small rug
• Pillows or a bean bag for reading together
• Optional: A small shelf for rotating seasonal books

 

Simple Storage That Invites Independence

A tidy space helps your child play more freely and clean up with confidence. Keep materials visible and within reach so they can make their own choices throughout the day. The goal is ease, not perfection.

• Open baskets or low shelves for toys and art
• Label with pictures if your child is ready
• A tote or bin for “activity time” items, rotated weekly

 

Outdoor Play and Nature Supplies

Some of the best preschool learning happens under the sky. Outdoor play builds curiosity, coordination, and calm—all without a single worksheet. Keep a few simple tools ready for exploring and observing the world together.

• Buckets, shovels, magnifying glass, bug jar
• Sidewalk chalk, bubbles, spray bottles
• Optional: A small garden space or pots for planting

 

Optional Extras That Grow with You

Once you’ve settled into a rhythm, you might find a few extras that make your days run more smoothly. Add these slowly and only if they truly help your family’s flow. Small upgrades can make everyday activities feel a little easier.

• Laminator for reusing printable activities
• Simple dry-erase sheets or reusable pouches
• Child-sized apron or smock
• A small easel if you have space

 

A Note on Curriculum and Printables

You don’t need a boxed curriculum to begin homeschooling preschool. At this age, real-world play is the best teacher. Choose printables that add to your child’s curiosity rather than replace it. Keep things light, flexible, and led by your child’s interests—structure will come naturally with time.

Gather What Matters, Let Go of the Rest

You probably already have most of what you need to homeschool preschool well. The heart of learning isn’t found in a long supply list—it’s in the moments you share while exploring, creating, and playing together. Let the rest fall away. Learning begins the moment you sit down and join in.

Looking for more ideas? Check out these related posts or grab the free Printable Essentials Checklist to keep things simple.