Finding a solid, secular math curriculum for elementary-aged children can be tricky, especially with so many programs tied to religious perspectives. Here’s a roundup of secular-friendly options, from free resources to paid programs, and what makes each one unique.
| Full Program? | Cost | Methods | Support Needed | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zearn | Yes | FREE | Step by step scaffolding and interactive learning | Low | Interactive Digital Lessons. Printable notes and worksheets. |
| Fishtank | Yes | FREE (paid option for additional materials) | Problem based learning with discussions and practice | High | Classroom teachers guide available on the website. |
| Beast Academy | Yes | $$ | Advanced. Lots of emphasis on critical thinking and deeper understanding. | Moderate (Some questions are very difficult) | Digital or comic book guide + workbook |
| Wild Math | Yes, some use it as an extra | $ | Experimental, nature based, and play based learning. | High | Digital guide that can be printed for parent to implement. No step by step guides. |
| Singapore | Yes | $$$ | Concrete to Pictorial to Abstract progression. | Medium | Textbook + Workbooks |
| Math with Confidence | Yes | $ | Spiral review with short lessons. | High | Teachers guide + Workbook |
| Khan Academy | Yes, some use it as an extra | FREE | Mastery-based, direct instruction with guided practice. Khan Academy Kids app is game based. | Low | Website/App. Digital (videos + practice exercises). Khan Academy Kids is an app on iOS and Android. |
A more accessible version of this table can be found here
Zearn – Free
Zearn is an excellent online math curriculum that many families use for digital lessons. It also offers full teacher lesson plans and printable worksheets if you prefer hands-on materials. The program is structured, engaging, and aligned with common core standards.
Fishtank – Free (with paid options)
Fishtank is designed for classrooms, so it’s a bit harder to follow in a homeschool setting. Still, it’s free, and the paid version offers extra resources that might be useful if you want more structure.
Beast Academy – Paid
Beast Academy is a challenging, comic-book-style curriculum designed for gifted students who enjoy a deep dive into math. It’s available as books, digital lessons, or both. I recommend starting a level below your child’s grade if you want them to build confidence before tackling the material fully. Make sure to check out their free games and resources in “Beast Academy Playground”
Wild Math – Paid (but inexpensive)
Wild Math is less a strict curriculum and more a hands-on guide for exploring math. It’s perfect for kids who love movement, nature, and games. The program includes recommendations for books, board games, and activities you can do outdoors or at home.
Singapore Math – Paid
A workbook-based program that provides a solid foundation in math. Singapore Math is known for its problem-solving approach and step-by-step progression.
Math with Confidence – Paid
A simple, straightforward curriculum that many parents like for early elementary math. While the program itself is solid, it’s primarily sold through Christian websites and Amazon, so I hesitate to fully recommend it here. The author does share religious math recommendations on their blog and there is uses of Christian world view for example using church as an example of something that is an hour long.
Khan Academy – Free: Comprehensive online math program covering everything from early math through college level. Includes instructional videos, interactive practice, and progress tracking. The Khan Academy Kids app has game based math (and other subjects) for ages 3-8.
Supplemental Programs
Generation Genius – Paid: This program provides engaging math videos with accompanying lesson plans. It’s a great supplemental tool to reinforce concepts visually and keep kids interested.
IXL – Paid: structured practice. Solid material, though some students do not find it engaging.
Prodigy – Free with a paid subscription option: Game-based and engaging, making math feel more like play.
Dragon Box – Paid subscription: A collection of math apps that teach concepts through intuitive, play-based puzzles. Kids often don’t even realize they’re “doing math” while they build strong number sense and problem-solving skills.
Programs I Do Not Recommend
Good and Beautiful – Religious content; not secular, and overall not a strong program.
Math Mammoth – Labeled as “neutral,” so I don’t recommend it here.
Life of Fred – While a fun narrative format, it is not secular or inclusive and has questionable content throughout.
Math-U-See – Contains Christian-based songs in early levels, and it’s profits support far right agendas.
Rabbit Hole Learning 
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