Saxon Math vs. Teaching Textbooks: Which Homeschool Math Curriculum is Right for Your Child?

Choosing a math curriculum is one of the most debated decisions in homeschooling. Two programs that consistently top the list are Saxon Math and Teaching Textbooks — but they take very different approaches to instruction. This comparison breaks down how each works, who thrives with each one, and which is the better fit depending on your child's learning style and your teaching preferences.

Overview:

Saxon Math has been a staple of homeschooling for decades. It uses an incremental approach, meaning each lesson introduces a small new concept while continuously reviewing previously learned material. This spiral method means students rarely move on and forget — instead, they practice old skills alongside new ones every single day. Teaching Textbooks is a fully digital curriculum that combines video lessons, automated grading, and a conversational teaching style. A friendly, on-screen tutor walks students through each lesson, making it accessible for students who prefer to learn independently.`

  

Approaches to Learning:

Saxon Math is teacher-intensive in the lower grades. Parents read scripted lessons aloud, use manipulatives, and guide students through problems. In upper grades, students can work more independently, but the program still requires parental involvement to check work and guide corrections. Teaching Textbooks is largely self-taught. Students log in, watch the video lesson, complete the problems, and receive instant automated feedback. Parents receive a progress report but rarely need to sit beside their child. This is a significant advantage for families with multiple children or parents who feel less confident in higher math.`

Pros and Cons:

Saxon Math Pros: Proven track record over 40+ years. Thorough, systematic review prevents forgotten concepts. Strong preparation for standardized tests. Affordable printed textbooks available used. Saxon Math Cons: Can feel repetitive for students who master concepts quickly. Requires significant parental time, especially in K–3. No built-in grading — parents grade every lesson. Teaching Textbooks Pros: Fully self-directed for students in grades 3 and up. Automated grading saves hours per week. Engaging video instruction works well for visual learners. No prep time for parents. Teaching Textbooks Cons: Subscription-based pricing adds up over the years. Some families find it moves slower than other programs. Not ideal for students who prefer working on paper.`

Pricing:

Saxon Math textbooks can be purchased new for $60–$120 per level, or found used for $15–$40. Teaching Textbooks runs approximately $30/month per subject as a subscription, or around $120–$200 for an annual license per level.`

Who Should Choose Saxon Math?

Saxon Math is an excellent choice for families who want a rigorous, proven curriculum and are willing to invest time in teaching. It works especially well for children who benefit from daily review and repetition, and for families who prefer low-tech, paper-based learning. It is also ideal for budget-conscious homeschoolers who buy used materials.`

Who Should Choose Teaching Textbooks?

Teaching Textbooks is ideal for families who need a hands-off math solution, for children who are motivated self-learners, and for parents who want automated grading. It is particularly well-suited for middle and high school students who can work independently, and for parents who feel less confident teaching advanced math concepts themselves.`

Verdict:

Both programs produce strong math students — the difference is in the delivery. If you want a low-prep, screen-based experience that your child can navigate alone, Teaching Textbooks wins. If you want a rigorous, proven system and do not mind daily involvement, Saxon Math is hard to beat. Many families actually use Saxon in the early grades and transition to Teaching Textbooks in middle school — a combination that works well for a wide range of learners.`