How do I set a realistic budget for books and resources? 

Parenting Perspective 

Starting with the Essentials 

Home education can be done simply or with many resources, but without careful planning the costs can quickly add up. Begin with a clear, sensible approach by deciding what you truly need based on your child’s age and learning style. Make a list of essentials, such as core textbooks, exercise books, basic stationery and any exam fees if your child will be taking formal tests. Allow for a small extra fund to cover things like craft materials, educational trips or occasional subscriptions that add variety to lessons. 

Keeping Spending Reasonable 

Look for ways to keep spending reasonable. Check local home-education groups or online forums for second-hand books, many families resell good quality resources at much lower prices. Make the most of public libraries, which can provide a huge range of reading and reference material for free. Avoid the urge to buy everything at once; instead, spread purchases throughout the year, just as you would buy seasonal clothes. 

Planning for the Unexpected 

It can help to set aside an emergency fund for unexpected needs, such as a new learning interest or replacing lost materials. If your budget is tight, consider swapping resources with other families or joining local co-ops that share teaching tools and materials. Always remember that it is not the cost of the resource that makes the biggest difference but your warmth, energy and thoughtful approach. These are worth far more than any expensive book or subscription. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to be mindful and balanced in all aspects of spending, including our children’s education. Careful budgeting is part of the Amanah you hold as a parent, providing for your child’s learning without falling into wastefulness or unnecessary hardship. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 67: 

‘And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor stingy but are ever, between that, justly moderate. ‘

This Ayah beautifully reminds us that moderation brings Barakah and protects us from regret. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2646, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Whoever treads a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make the path to Paradise easy for him. ‘

Know that the effort you put into providing good resources, no matter how modest, carries weight with Allah Almighty when done with sincere intention. Make Dua: O Allah, grant us Barakah in our Rizq and make our children’s learning fruitful. Teach your child about gratitude for what they have and the value of using it well, this builds a sense of Amanah and appreciation for the blessings of knowledge. By setting a realistic budget and trusting that your best effort will be rewarded, you model Tawakkul and wise stewardship, lessons that reach far beyond books and pencils, InshaAllah.