Early modern spine or..

[countrymum]

I am doing early modern next year with my 3rd and 1st graders. I don't want SOTW.  I am open to only American history or all of world history shying away from some or the more terrible topics. I am happy to design my own or use someone elses plan. I have plenty of ideas for novels and biographies. What I need is a spine or a way to tie it all together. Any spine or program ideas?? Please tell me why you recommend it too?

[stibalfamily]

Notgrass has a primary American History. https://history.notgrass.com/elementary/

[Sherry in OH]

Betsy Maestro's The American Story series covers pre-history through early 19th century U.S. history.

• The Discovery of the Americas: prehistory through Columbus
• Exploration and Conquest: The Americas after Columbus: 1500-1620
• The New Americans: Colonial Times: 1620-1689
• Struggle for a Continent: The French and Indian War: 1689-1763
• Liberty or Death: The American Revolution: 1763-1783
• A New Nation: The United States: 1783-1815
• Related title:
  • A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution

The books combine age-appropriate text with plenty of illustrations.  Many public libraries hold some or all books in the series.  Con is that although there are some topical books for later U.S. history - one on the Statue of Liberty and another on immigration in general, the series ends at 1815.  You would need something else for later history.  If you are interested I could look through my notes for books we used for 1815 through 1900.  

For world history, A Child's History of the World might suit your needs.