Why Are So Many (6%) of People Homeschooling Now? 🫤


Step into the fascinating realm of homeschooling, where the number of families choosing this educational path has been skyrocketing. While the pandemic played a part, it’s not the only reason. Surprising statistics from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) reveal that in the 2021-2022 school year, around 3.1 million students (about 6% of school-age children) were homeschooled in the United States. This is a significant jump from the 2.5 million homeschool students (around 3% to 4% of school-age children) in spring 2019. Clearly, homeschooling is on the rise, and we’re here to explore why.In this article, we’ll dive into the motivations behind this educational choice, breaking down the top ten reasons why more and more families are opting for homeschooling. It’s not just about the pandemic; it’s about the advantages that come with this alternative approach to education. From flexible schedules to personalized learning, homeschooling offers a host of benefits that traditional schools may not. So, join us as we uncover the mysteries behind why 6% of people have chosen to embark on the homeschooling journey.Note 1: According to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), approximately 3.1 million students were homeschooled in grades K-12 during the 2021-2022 school year, representing about 6% of school-age children in the United States. This figure is significantly higher than the 2.5 million homeschool students (around 3% to 4% of school-age children) recorded in spring 2019.

There are a lot of homeschoolers out there. But, why are there so many homeschoolers? Find out in this article.

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1. More Flexibility With the Curriculum

Traditional public schools follow a standardized curriculum that applies to all students in a particular grade level or classroom.

Rebbecca Devitt

I hope you enjoy reading this blog post. If you want to do my course on how to homeschool, click here.

However, every child possesses unique strengths, interests, and learning styles, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not fully capitalize on their individuality.

In homeschooling, parents have the freedom to tailor the curriculum to suit their child’s specific needs.

This flexibility allows for a variety of curriculum choices, such as the Charlotte Mason, Classical, or traditional approaches.

Additionally, homeschooling accommodates families who wish to incorporate their religious beliefs into the curriculum, which is particularly advantageous for those of the Christian faith.

By embracing homeschooling, families can curate an educational program that aligns with their child’s learning preferences and their own values, unlocking a world of customized learning opportunities.

2. Decreased Exposure to Peer Pressure

While peer pressure in school can occasionally have positive effects, it often tends to be negative in nature.

This negative influence can manifest in various ways, including engaging in undesirable behaviors like substance abuse or adopting harmful attitudes.

Homeschooling provides an environment where children have increased exposure to their parents, who serve as influential role models.

With this direct involvement, homeschooling minimizes exposure to negative peer influences, creating a safer and healthier learning environment.

By avoiding the negative behaviors and detrimental aspects often associated with traditional school settings, parents who opt for homeschooling prioritize the well-being and development of their children.

As concerns about the school environment and the impact of negative peer pressure continue to grow, more families are making the proactive choice to homeschool their children.

By doing so, they can shield their children from detrimental influences, fostering an atmosphere conducive to positive growth and well-rounded development.

3. A Better Educational Environment

The homeschooling setting offers a unique advantage by providing children with a rich and natural learning environment within their own homes.

Unlike traditional schools, where students spend most of their time in classrooms, homeschooling allows children to explore and engage with the world around them.

At home, children have the opportunity to go on nature walks, discovering the wonders of the natural world firsthand (see my video below for a look at Nature Study 101 in a homeschool).

They also have more time to develop practical life skills that can be valuable in their everyday lives.

Additionally, homeschooling encourages interaction with neighbors and the local community, fostering social connections and real-world experiences.

Without the pressures of competing with peers or solely focusing on passing tests, homeschooling students tend to cultivate a love for learning itself.

They have the freedom to pursue knowledge for the joy of discovery rather than solely to impress friends or achieve high test scores.

This intrinsic motivation creates a more meaningful and enjoyable learning journey where children can truly embrace the wonders of education.

4. A Relaxed Environment

Homeschooling becomes a saving grace for parents with children who have special needs like autism or Asperger’s.

The relaxed environment of home education proves to be a blessing compared to the often overwhelming school setting.

This tranquil setting allows homeschoolers to focus on their work more effortlessly, with fewer distractions or disruptions that can hijack their thoughts.

Moreover, homeschooling students often complete their work more efficiently, which may be why some people perceive them as exceptionally bright.

Without the usual classroom distractions or time constraints, homeschoolers can progress at their own pace, accomplishing tasks more swiftly.

This freedom and flexibility create an optimal learning experience that celebrates individual strengths and empowers children to reach their full potential.

Why do people voluntarily choose to homeschool their children these days? #homeschoolfaqs #whyhomeschool

5. Better Family Bonding

One of the driving factors behind homeschooling is the desire for stronger relationships within the family.

Many parents choose homeschooling to cultivate deeper connections with their children.

However, it’s not just about initial intentions—what they often discover is a remarkable transformation in family dynamics, marked by significantly enhanced relationships among siblings and between parents and children.

Homeschooling provides ample opportunities for siblings to bond and interact more closely on a daily basis.

Being in the same educational environment fosters shared experiences, teamwork, and mutual support, nurturing strong sibling connections.

Additionally, homeschooling allows parents to actively participate in their children’s education, creating a unique parent-child bond.

Through collaborative learning, personalized attention, and shared interests, homeschooling strengthens the parent-child relationship, leading to deeper understanding, trust, and emotional connection.

As families experience the positive effects of homeschooling on their relationships, more and more parents are choosing to continue this educational journey.

6. An Opportunity to Continue Schooling While Travelling

Homeschooling presents a fantastic opportunity for families who love to explore and travel.

When a family decides to embark on an adventure, whether touring the countryside or venturing abroad for an extended period, homeschooling becomes the go-to method for ensuring their children’s education doesn’t miss a beat.

(This is often called travelschooling, roadschooling, or worldschooling.)

By homeschooling while traveling, parents can create an enriching educational experience that seamlessly integrates with their journeys.

This flexibility lets children to learn from real-life experiences, whether it’s discovering historical landmarks, exploring diverse cultures, or immersing in the wonders of nature.

As families embrace this unique educational approach during their travels, they often develop a strong affinity for homeschooling.

The sense of freedom, the ability to adapt the curriculum to their adventures, and the joy of witnessing their children’s educational growth become powerful motivations to continue home education even after returning home.

Thus, the love for homeschooling often blossoms during these journeys, leading families to opt for this inspiring and versatile educational path.

7. A Better Chance to Talk Theology and Philosophy

When kids go to public school, there are certain things they are taught and not encouraged to question.

But in homeschooling, it’s different!

Parents can freely talk about their beliefs and have honest conversations about important topics like God and deep thinking without fear of recrimination.

As such, homeschooling is a great opportunity to talk frankly about theology and philosophy.

When I was homeschooled, I often spent the first three hours of the day having these conversations with my father.

I believe they have helped me think more analytically as I’ve grown older.

8. Reduced Bullying

Homeschooling also provides a safe haven from the detrimental effects of bullying that can scar a child emotionally for life.

By removing children from toxic school environments, homeschooling offers a less stressful and more supportive setting for learning.

Freed from the fear of being targeted or harassed, homeschooled children can focus on their studies, flourish emotionally, and develop their full potential in a nurturing atmosphere.

9. Continuity Through BIG Life Changes

During turbulent and changing circumstances, homeschooling can serve as a steady anchor, providing a sense of continuity and stability for families.

This is especially beneficial for families who frequently move states or countries, such as those with a parent serving in the military, as changing schools frequently can disrupt a child’s social and emotional well-being.

When families are constantly moving, traditional schooling can hinder the formation of lasting friendships, as other schoolchildren may hesitate to invest in relationships knowing that the homeschooled child will soon relocate again.

Homeschooling offers a viable solution in these situations, ensuring that children have a consistent and supportive educational experience regardless of their geographical location.

10. Many people are homeschooling as online school options have become so easy to implement.

The rise of online schooling has significantly contributed to the increasing number of people choosing homeschooling as an educational option.

With platforms like BJU Press, Veritas Press, and Ignite Christian Academy, parents now have access to accredited homeschool curriculum programs that make the implementation of online schooling easier than ever before.

Online schools provide a convenient alternative that requires less effort from parents compared to traditional homeschooling approaches.

These programs offer comprehensive curricula and educational resources.

Also, for those people for whom it’s important, parents can rely on established and accredited frameworks for their children’s education.

By utilizing online platforms, parents can tap into a wealth of educational materials, interactive lessons, and virtual classrooms, reducing the burden of creating lesson plans from scratch.

11. The second generation of homeschoolers on the rise.

Homeschooling has witnessed a remarkable shift over the past few decades, with a significant rise in second-generation homeschoolers.

In the past, homeschooling was a rarity, but now approximately 80% of individuals who were homeschooled themselves are choosing to educate their own children at home.

This growing population of second-generation homeschoolers contributes to the overall increase in families embracing home education today.

Furthermore, as parents delve deeper into their concerns regarding homeschooling, they often discover that the commonly held belief of unsocialized homeschoolers is nothing more than a myth.

The apprehensions surrounding socialization fade as parents witness the numerous benefits of homeschooling and the opportunities for social interactions and connections with peers.

By exploring the realities of homeschooling, many parents find that the advantages far outweigh any initial reservations.

They realize that they are capable of successfully homeschooling their children and feel empowered to embark on this educational journey.

The more parents explore and educate themselves about homeschooling, the more they recognize its potential for creating a well-rounded and fulfilling educational experience for their children.

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Have you caught the homeschooling bug?

Eager to delve deeper into the realm of unconventional education?

Well, my curious comrades, rejoice!

There are splendid avenues awaiting your exploration.

Firstly, hop on over to my YouTube channel, where a treasure trove of homeschooling wisdom awaits. From practical tips to delightful anecdotes, I unravel the mysteries of homeschooling with a touch of wit and wisdom.

Subscribe, hit that notification bell, and embark on an enlightening journey with me.

Enroll in the Homeschool Parenting Program

For those wanting a comprehensive guide to homeschooling, look no further than my Homeschool Parenting Program.

This online course will equip you with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to navigate the exhilarating world of homeschooling like a seasoned pro.

Enroll today and unlock the door to extraordinary educational possibilities.

That’s Why So Many People Are Homeschooling!

In conclusion, the surge in homeschooling can be attributed to many factors that resonate with families today. From the flexibility of curriculum choices to improved family bonding and reduced exposure to negative peer pressure, homeschooling offers a personalized and nurturing educational environment. The ability to continue schooling while traveling, engage in open discussions about theology and philosophy, and mitigate the impact of bullying further adds to its appeal. The accessibility of online schooling options and the rise of second-generation homeschoolers also contribute to its growing popularity. As more parents uncover the realities of homeschooling and dispel myths surrounding it, they are discovering the immense benefits and realizing their ability to provide a holistic education for their children. With each passing year, homeschooling continues to empower families, foster academic growth, and shape students’ lives in unique and enriching ways.

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Rebecca Devitt

Most adults don't particularly want to relive their schooling experience on a daily basis. They would gladly move on to a new life devoid of homework and teachers. Very, very few adults will passionately blog about their schooling some 15 years after graduating. This makes Rebecca Devitt somewhat unique. As it happens, she was homeschooled. And she loved it. Still does. And she wishes every kid could get a taste of homeschooling at its very best. Her website How Do I Homeschool, is a springboard for parents to see what a life of homeschooling could be for both them & their children. When she's not blogging Rebecca is still homeschooling her-adult-self by learning Latin, growing weird vegetables and most importantly looking after her two children Luke & Penny. She has a husband Tristan and is a participant at Wollongong Baptist Church. She's also written a book about why parents should homeschool called 'Why on Earth Homeschool'.

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