Homeschool Supplies We Actually Use

Autism Oasis uses a few affiliate links (including Amazon). When you purchase through them, we may receive a small commission that helps us create more resources for our community.

Jen here! I wanted to share with you some of the great items that have helped me on my homeschool journey. Now, these items are NOT required by any means, I've just found them very helpful and supportive to using our curriculum. Heather has used many of them as well with Tosh over the years.

All links below go to our Homeschool Products storefront on Amazon.

Academic Supplies

Dry-Erase Whiteboard (Magnetic) A whiteboard has been one of the most useful items I have purchased. We use it for spelling words, writing out sentences, and working on math. My daughter also loves to direct her dad and I to write words and phrases she is currently interested in. We prefer magnetic boards so you can attach cards, visuals, and other materials directly to the surface.

Magnetic Stars or Magnet Pieces A simple set of colored magnets doubles as a visual checklist tool. For example, I purchased a set of star-shaped magnets to use as a means to check off the tasks as we went through them. And for my daughter it had to be in rainbow order. Sets come in different colors, designs, and functions. We also have a set with clips that come in handy.

Counting Cubes and Math Manipulatives Hands-on math tools are essential for many of our students. Counting cubes, linking cubes, and other manipulatives make abstract number concepts concrete and touchable. They work across a wide range of skill levels and hold up well to heavy use.

Velcro (Adhesive) This is a small thing that makes a big difference. Velcro dots and strips let you attach visual schedule cards, choice boards, and activity pieces to almost any surface.

Visual Timer A visual timer shows your student how much time is remaining in a session or activity in a way that is immediately understandable without reading a clock. The Time Timer brand is the most commonly recommended, but there are many solid options available on Amazon at a range of price points.

Laminator Laminating your materials helps them hold up to daily use and makes them easy to wipe clean. If a laminator feels like too big an investment right now, self-laminating sheets are a budget-friendly alternative worth trying. I have to say though, the laminator I bought has lasted years and comes in handy for the social stories I create for my daughter.

Checklists and Visual Schedule Supplies Whether you build your own or purchase a ready-made set, having a visual schedule system in place gives your student a reliable framework for the day. Look for dry-erase compatible options or pair printed cards with lamination and Velcro for a reusable setup.

First/Then Board A first/then board is one of the simplest and most effective visual supports you can have. It communicates what is happening now and what comes next, which reduces anxiety and supports smooth transitions. Many options are available on Amazon, or you can easily make your own.

Also worth reading: We have a full blog post dedicated to fidgets and how they support learning. If you are looking for sensory tools to add to your setup, Spin, Pop, Squeeze: How Fidgets Support Learning is a great place to start.

Every homeschool setup looks a little different, and what works beautifully for one student may not be the right fit for another. Start with one or two items, see how your student responds, and build from there.