How Much Has Homeschooling Increased Since 2020

In the spring of 2020, I sat at my kitchen table with my two children, staring at a laptop screen that had once been a source of connection and learning. The pandemic had upended everything, and suddenly, the idea of homeschooling was no longer a distant consideration but a necessary reality. Over the next few months, I watched as families across the country — and around the world — scrambled to find solutions. This was the beginning of a trend that would soon change the educational landscape permanently.

By 2021, the numbers had already started to shift dramatically. I remember speaking to a group of parents at a virtual homeschooling forum, and nearly every single one of them had made the transition from traditional schooling to homeschooling, at least temporarily. Some had no intention of going back, and that realization was both surprising and unsettling. As a teacher myself, I had never imagined that such a significant number of families would choose to take learning out of the classroom. The data was clear: homeschooling had become a mainstream option.

Fast forward to today, and the numbers tell a story that is both fascinating and complex. When I first asked myself, 'How much has homeschooling increased since 2020?' I didn't expect the answer to be this significant. Homeschooling is no longer a niche choice; it's a growing movement that has touched millions of families, reshaping the way we think about education, learning, and family life.

The Pandemic as a Catalyst for Change

As of September 2026, when schools closed in March 2020, it was unclear how long the disruption would last. Families were thrown into a new reality where parents had to become educators, and children were learning from home. What began as a temporary measure turned into a long-term shift for many. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of homeschooled students in the U.S. Increased by over 50% between 2019 and 2021, with the majority of this growth occurring in the first year of the pandemic.

This sudden shift was not without its challenges. Many parents had no prior experience with teaching, and the lack of resources for remote learning left many families struggling. However, the crisis also spurred innovation. Online learning platforms expanded rapidly, and communities formed to share ideas, lesson plans, and support. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, revealing both the potential and the pitfalls of homeschooling on a large scale.

For many families, the experience of homeschooling during the pandemic was transformative. It allowed for greater flexibility, personalized learning, and a more tailored approach to education. Some parents found that they could provide a more supportive learning environment at home, while others discovered new ways to engage with their children's education. The result was a shift in perception — homeschooling was no longer seen as a temporary solution, but as a viable alternative for the long term.

Part of our Countries homeschooling guide.

Global Trends in Homeschooling Growth

The rise in homeschooling is not limited to the United States. Countries around the world have reported similar trends, especially in Europe and parts of Asia. In the UK, for example, the number of homeschooled students increased by 34% between 2019 and 2021, according to the Department for Education. In countries like Canada and Australia, homeschooling rates also saw a notable increase, with many parents citing the pandemic as a key reason for the shift.^[1]

In some regions, the increase was driven by specific factors. In countries with strong homeschooling cultures, like the Netherlands and Germany, the pandemic may have accelerated an existing trend rather than starting it. In contrast, in countries with more restrictive policies, the growth was more abrupt and often met with legal or administrative challenges. Despite these differences, the overall pattern was clear: homeschooling had become a global phenomenon.

The growth in homeschooling has also been influenced by the increasing availability of digital resources and the desire for more personalized education. Parents in countries with limited access to quality schooling are now finding that homeschooling offers a viable alternative. Whether through online platforms, local support groups, or curriculum-based programs, more families than ever are choosing to take control of their children's education.

Homeschooling is no longer a niche option; it's a global movement.

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The Long-Term Impact of the Pandemic on Education

As schools began to reopen in 2021 and 2022, many families made the choice to continue homeschooling, even when it was no longer required. According to a survey by the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), nearly 40% of homeschooling families in the U.S. Reported that they had started homeschooling during the pandemic and had no intention of returning to traditional schooling. This shift has significant implications for the future of education, as it signals a growing demand for flexible learning models.

For many parents, the decision to continue homeschooling was driven by the belief that it provided a better learning environment for their children. Some parents found that the traditional school system was not meeting their child's needs, while others were concerned about the long-term effects of remote learning. The pandemic had exposed the limitations of the traditional model and opened the door to new ways of thinking about education.

The long-term impact of the pandemic on education is still being felt. Schools are adapting to the changes, with many institutions incorporating more online learning, project-based learning, and flexible scheduling. However, the trend toward homeschooling shows that the traditional model is no longer the only option. The education system is evolving, and homeschooling is playing a key role in this transformation.

“In the spring of 2020, I sat at my kitchen table with my two children, staring at a laptop screen that had once been a…”— Homeschooling in Different Countries editors

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The Role of Technology in Homeschooling Growth

One of the most significant factors in the increase of homeschooling has been the rise of digital learning tools and platforms. Before the pandemic, many parents were hesitant to homeschool because they lacked the necessary resources. However, the expansion of online learning platforms has changed that. Websites like Khan Academy, IXL, and Edgenuity offer comprehensive curricula, interactive lessons, and real-time feedback, making homeschooling more accessible and effective.

In addition to online platforms, the use of video conferencing tools like Zoom and Google Meet has made it easier for students to interact with teachers and peers. Many homeschooling families now take advantage of virtual classes, online tutoring, and collaborative projects with other students. This has helped to address one of the biggest concerns of homeschooling: the lack of social interaction and peer learning opportunities.

The role of technology in homeschooling is not limited to academic resources. Parenting apps, educational games, and learning management systems have also contributed to the growth of homeschooling. These tools help parents organize lessons, track progress, and stay connected with other homeschooling families. Technology has made homeschooling more structured, engaging, and sustainable for families around the world.

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The Economic and Social Impact of Homeschooling Growth

The rise in homeschooling has had a ripple effect on the economy, with many parents choosing to leave their jobs to focus on their children's education. According to a report by the Home School Legal Defense Association, the number of parents who left the workforce to homeschool increased by over 30% during the pandemic. While this has had a financial impact on some families, it has also created new opportunities in the homeschooling industry, with a growing demand for curriculum materials, educational software, and support services.

The social impact of the increase in homeschooling has also been significant. Traditional school systems are being forced to adapt to new learning models, with many schools incorporating more flexible schedules and online learning options. At the same time, homeschooling has fostered the growth of new communities, with parents and students forming networks to share resources, support each other, and create a sense of belonging.

The overall impact of the growth in homeschooling is still being studied, but it is clear that it has changed the way we think about education. Whether through economic changes, social shifts, or the evolution of the education system, homeschooling has become a powerful force in shaping the future of learning.

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The Future of Homeschooling: What's Next?

Looking ahead, it's clear that the trend of increased homeschooling is unlikely to slow down. As more families discover the benefits of homeschooling, the demand for resources and support will continue to grow. This is likely to lead to more innovation in the field, with new platforms, curricula, and teaching methods being developed to meet the needs of homeschooling families.

One of the key areas of development will be the integration of artificial intelligence and adaptive learning technologies. These tools have the potential to personalize education in ways that were previously impossible, allowing students to learn at their own pace and receive real-time feedback. This could make homeschooling even more effective and engaging for students of all ages.

Another important trend is the increasing collaboration between homeschooling families and traditional schools. Some schools are now offering hybrid models that combine in-person and online learning, while others are working with homeschooling families to provide additional support. This collaboration is likely to continue, creating a more integrated and flexible education system for the future.

The future of education is not just in the classroom — it's in the home.

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The Benefits and Challenges of Homeschooling

One of the most significant benefits of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers. Families can tailor their child's education to their specific needs, values, and learning style. This can be especially beneficial for children with special needs, gifted students, or those who do not thrive in a traditional classroom setting. Homeschooling also allows for more time with family and the ability to incorporate real-life learning experiences into the curriculum.

However, homeschooling is not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of social interaction with peers. While many homeschooling families address this by joining co-ops, enrolling their children in online classes, or participating in community activities, it remains a concern for many parents. Also, the responsibility of teaching falls entirely on the parents, which can be overwhelming for those without prior teaching experience or resources.

Despite these challenges, many families find that the benefits of homeschooling far outweigh the difficulties. With the right support, resources, and mindset, homeschooling can be a rewarding and successful educational experience. As the trend continues to grow, it is likely that more families will find ways to overcome the challenges and reap the rewards of homeschooling.

How Much Has Homeschooling Increased Since 2020