American history is a valuable part of our everyday life and has shaped our country. Resources are difficult to find and here are our favorites. We have assembled all the curriculum texts both pre-made and self-created to provide the best and most fun interactive lessons. For elementary, middle school and early almost high school age.

American History: General Overview

(Elementary: Recommended 2nd-4th Grade)

The All American General History book is a great introduction to a little bit of everything in history. From Vikings to Ponce de Leon, colonial life and battles for freedom, it gives a brief overview of all the major events in American History in an an easy to read format. Chapters are less than ten pages and gives key words, major headings and important people.

I created a version of the interactive journal activity for this book. The journal is a quick notebook of cut and paste with some fill in blanks to give a general overview as the child reads this book. A great start before beginning deeper history units.

(Elementary: Recommended 3rd-5th Grade)

This self created unique curriculum brings early American settlers to life through quick, easy lessons and hands‑on activities that turn ordinary lessons into imaginative adventures. Inspired by a family trip to historical spots like Jamestown and Williamsburg. The curriculum uses that real‑world excitement to spark curious minds and make the past feel like a lively, unfolding story your kids can jump right into.

Free printable lesson plans that include activities and engaging resources to learn the basics about the great early settlers of America.

(Advanced Middle School: Recommended 6th-7th Grade)

This curriculum is more academic and reading based. Great for helping students engage with texts and learn notetaking. The primary focus of this unit is using a heavy set of deep reading materials to take notes. At the end of the units, there is a 5 paragraph essay to summarize the materials read. Definitely encouraged for your advanced learner – or perhaps your child that is a true history lover.

A mix of very old texts and new unique texts, this unit teaches how the revolution sparked the most dramatic changes and events in history.

Civil War

(Late Middle School/Early High School: Recommended 8th-9th Grade)

This simple yet engaging Civil War curriculum is designed for middle schoolers (especially 7th–8th grade) to explore the years 1860–1865, learning how the war began, its major battles, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the war’s lasting impact.

Built from free resources like websites, articles, and library books, it focuses on making history both accessible and meaningful without being overly complicated. The unit includes word searches, crosswords, charts, essay prompts, maps, and flexible activities that can be tailored to a child’s interests and learning style.

The goal is to keep lessons straightforward but deep—helping kids connect to history in a way that feels alive and engaging, while also leaving room for feedback and customization along the way.