If you’re a string player (or know one!), Southwest Strings is a great source for good prices on instruments and accessories. I look here first for price comparisons.
I use several different books, and which we decide on depends on your child’s learning style. Often we’ll use a combination of methods designed to suit preferences, and customize as we go. That said, these are the most likely candidates and ones I highly recommend.
For beginning violin students, we use a good portion of Wohlfahrt’s book. I love that it starts with very easy exercises, also that everything is a duet. I add repertoire (songs) to the list based on student interest and needs instead of a pre-determined course.
Advancing students will often have need of Applebaum’s 3rd & 5th Position String Builder.
For viola students, I use a similar approach – lots of duets and repertoire that both supports the student and is interesting.
Advancing viola students can also benefit from Applebaum’s String Builder series:
