Pilot Courses

I'm starting my private pilot training next month (for my own
statisfaction, I'm 44 and have a good career going, I'm not interested
in flying as a profession). I'll be going at it part time and wondered
what other things I can use to get the most out of my instrutor time.
I've seen pilots courses from a variety of sources and wondered if
they;re worth the money?

I asked the instructor I spoke with and he recommended simulators, but
said nothing about courses.

Any thoughts?
John S.