Give your child a connection to the stories, people, and places that make America home.
Your child may be growing up in Madrid, Nairobi, Tokyo, or somewhere else around the world—but that doesn’t mean American history has to feel far away. An American-History-in-a-Box brings American history to life through great books, games, puzzles, activities, and thoughtful learning experiences designed especially for globally minded families. Our history packs and Gifted and Talented Learning Packs also promote learning through reading and interacting with educational themes and ideas.
There is no complicated curriculum, no endless worksheets, and no need to spend hours searching for the right books. Instead, you will find engaging, age-appropriate resources that make American history something your child can read, explore, talk about, and enjoy.
United States History Doesn’t Have to Stop at the Airport!
For American children growing up overseas, history can sometimes feel disconnected from everyday life. They may not visit the places they’re learning about. They may miss the field trips, library displays, classroom discussions, and holiday traditions that help other American children build a sense of connection to their country’s story.We help fill that gap.
Our American History in a Box collections give children a chance to discover American history through stories, characters, primary ideas, games, puzzles, and hands-on activities—wherever in the world your family happens to live. The resources are designed around children’s interests and reading, so learning doesn’t have to feel like another school assignment.
What’s Inside an American History Box?
Fiction & historical fiction – Stories that allow children to experience history through memorable characters and compelling narratives.
Nonfiction books – Accessible, engaging books that build historical knowledge and understanding.
Games & puzzles – Activities that turn historical facts and concepts into something children can actually enjoy.
Writing & enrichment activities – Opportunities to think, question, create, research, and make connections.
Independent learning – Resources children can explore on their own—or share with a parent, sibling, or teacher.
The result is a literature-rich American history experience that encourages children to become curious about the past.
Created with Globally Mobile Families in Mind
After School Plans was created with a simple idea: American children shouldn’t have to live in the United States to have a rich experience with American history.
Our families include:
- American Foreign Service families
- Embassy and diplomatic families
- Military and government families living overseas
- Homeschool and virtual-school families
- Families who move frequently
- Children who love history and want to explore more
- Gifted and curious learners
- Children who learn best through stories and hands-on experiences
Whether your child is attending a school overseas, learning virtually, homeschooling, or simply wants more American history in their life, After School Plans can become part of your family’s learning tradition.
Browse the History Boxes Below →
- American History in a Box Level A(Kindergarten-Grade 1: famous people, symbols, holidays, and geography)
- American History in a Box Level B (Grade 1- 2: geography, citizenship, savings, goods and services)
- American History in a Box Level C (Grades 2-3: exploration, colonialism, Native Americans, immigration, industrialization, famous people)
- American History in a Box Level D (Grades 3-4: an overview of our history with a focus on Civil Rights)
- American History in a Box Level E (Grades 4-5: major concepts and events)
- American History in a Box Level F (Grades 6-8: major concepts and events)
- American History in a Box Level G (Grades 7-9: major events with a focus on writing)
- American History in a Box Sports Edition (Grades 4-8)
- American History in a Box Expansion Packs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be homeschooling to use these boxes?
Not at all. Families use After School Plans alongside traditional schools, international schools, virtual schools, homeschooling, and other educational programs.
Are the boxes designed specifically for Foreign Service families?
They aren’t exclusively for Foreign Service families, but many of our customers are American diplomatic and Foreign Service families living overseas. The program was created with globally mobile American families in mind. Many families do qualify for reimbursement for American history courses.
How much parent involvement is required?
Very little is required. Many activities can be completed independently by a motivated child. Parents can also read together, play the games, or use the materials as a starting point for family conversations.
Do the boxes follow American educational standards?
Yes. Materials are selected with Common Core recommendations and Virginia Standards of Learning in mind.
Does my child need to complete the boxes in order?
No. While the levels provide a natural progression, you can choose individual boxes based on your child’s age, interests, and previous experience.
What if my child becomes especially interested in one topic?
Follow that interest! We encourage children to go deeper into subjects that capture their attention. We can also recommend additional books and resources.
What if my child is an advanced, gifted, reluctant, or differently learning child?
We can help you find materials that fit your child’s interests and learning style. We also offer personalized recommendations for families looking for something more specific.
What if I’m not sure which box is right for my child?
Email us. We’re happy to help you choose.
afterschoolplans@gmail.com
