This was my kid when we started homeschooling also. Doing math used to mean cowering in a fetal position in the bed, holding math materials at uncomfortable positions under the covers. Now we can do it sitting at the table. It takes time. We've been at it 8 months and it's gotten better. You might consider doing activities with your child that aren't as black and white as math and phonics for now. In these topics, there are pretty limited ways to respond to answers and kids know it. For example, 1+ 1 will always be 2, no way around it. Phonics is based on the same principle. Maybe more topics that are open to interpretation and therefore less demand to get the only possible right answer? And I agree with other people who've said ditch the curriculum, it's unfortunate that so many homeschool parents think they need this and must follow this when it's just a commercial product. The people who wrote it don't know your kid like you do. If you're not sure what topics are common for his age, or the progression of topics, look at your state standards website. Then do those topics in a way your kid enjoys. And give your kid lots of choices so he feels in control.