Homeschooling Trends Across the USA and in Missouri Since 2020

Since 2020, homeschooling in the United States has experienced a significant surge in popularity. Initially prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to remote learning, homeschooling has evolved into a more permanent and widely accepted educational choice for families across the country. In Missouri, like many other states, this trend has been reflected in growing numbers of families opting for home-based education, creating a shift in the educational landscape. In this blog, we will explore the homeschooling trends across the USA, specifically in Missouri, and highlight the benefits of homeschooling, including the positive impact of outdoor time on children’s development.

Homeschooling Trends Across the USA

The pandemic’s forced closures of schools in 2020 were a major catalyst for the rise in homeschooling. At the beginning of the school year, U.S. Census Bureau data revealed that the percentage of families homeschooling jumped from 5.4% in the spring of 2020 to 11.1% by fall 2020—a dramatic increase. Families who had never considered homeschooling before were suddenly thrust into a situation where they had to consider it as an option. Some parents found they preferred the flexibility and control homeschooling offered, and decided to continue even after schools reopened.

As the pandemic has receded, many families have stuck with homeschooling, making it a permanent choice. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of homeschooled students increased by 63% between 2020 and 2022, reflecting a long-term trend toward alternative education models. Homeschooling has become more mainstream, with diverse support networks, online resources, and co-op programs now available.

Homeschooling in Missouri

Missouri has seen similar trends, with homeschooling rates climbing since 2020. In 2020, the state saw an uptick in the number of parents choosing to homeschool their children, largely due to health concerns and the shift to online education. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) reported significant increases in the number of homeschool registrations during the pandemic, a pattern that has continued in subsequent years.

Missouri, like many other states, offers families considerable flexibility in how they homeschool, including no state-mandated testing requirements for children under 16 (though parents must submit annual assessments). This flexibility is part of the reason why many families choose homeschooling in the state. Missouri’s homeschooling community has grown more organized, with groups and online platforms offering resources, social events, and academic support.

Benefits of Homeschooling

1. Individualized Learning

One of the biggest advantages of homeschooling is the ability to provide a personalized education. Homeschooling allows parents to tailor their child’s curriculum to fit their unique learning style, interests, and pace. Unlike traditional schools, where students are often grouped by age and taught the same material, homeschooling enables a more customized approach. For example, children who excel in math can advance more quickly, while those who need extra time in reading can get the support they need without feeling pressured by the classroom setting.

2. Flexible Scheduling

Homeschooling provides families with the flexibility to create their own schedules. Without the constraints of a school calendar, parents can plan vacations, family events, and even travel during off-peak times. The ability to adjust the learning schedule means students can spend more time on subjects that interest them or take breaks when needed. This flexibility has made homeschooling particularly appealing for families with non-traditional work schedules or those looking to pursue other interests.

3. Stronger Family Bonds

Homeschooling can strengthen family relationships by allowing parents to spend more time with their children. This close-knit dynamic provides opportunities for bonding during lessons, field trips, and other activities. Parents are better able to understand their child’s needs and interests, leading to a deeper emotional connection and greater support for each other.

4. Tailored Socialization Opportunities

While one concern often raised about homeschooling is the lack of peer interaction, many homeschooling families find creative ways to provide socialization opportunities. Co-ops, extracurricular activities, online groups, and community events allow homeschooled children to connect with other students. Moreover, homeschooling often provides the chance to interact with a wide range of ages, which can foster more meaningful and diverse social interactions.

The Benefits of Outdoor Time for Homeschoolers

One of the emerging trends in homeschooling is a greater emphasis on outdoor learning. Many homeschooling families embrace the idea that nature is an ideal classroom. Spending time outdoors not only provides physical benefits but also contributes to emotional and cognitive development. Below are some key benefits of outdoor learning:

1. Improved Physical Health

Outdoor activities encourage physical exercise, which is crucial for children’s growth and development. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, or playing sports, outdoor time strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and promotes overall well-being. Children who spend more time outdoors also benefit from increased vitamin D exposure, which is important for bone health and immune function.

2. Enhanced Cognitive Function

Research has shown that exposure to nature can enhance cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, creativity, and focus. The natural world offers an abundance of learning experiences that can engage children’s curiosity and stimulate their imaginations. For example, a nature walk might turn into an impromptu science lesson on plant identification or wildlife tracking.

3. Emotional and Mental Benefits

Outdoor activities can have a profound impact on mental health. Nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost attention span. Being outside provides children with the chance to disconnect from technology and engage in hands-on learning that is more reflective and calming. The increased exposure to natural light also contributes to better sleep, which further enhances mental clarity and emotional regulation.

4. Building Life Skills

Homeschoolers who spend time outdoors often learn important life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and independence. Whether it’s caring for a garden, building a fort, or navigating a trail, outdoor activities offer opportunities to develop practical skills that extend beyond traditional classroom learning.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in the United States has experienced a transformation in the years since 2020, and Missouri is no exception. The rise in homeschooling reflects the growing desire for personalized, flexible education options that suit the needs of modern families. With the added benefits of outdoor learning, homeschooling has become a well-rounded, enriching educational choice that fosters both academic achievement and emotional well-being. As families continue to explore the benefits of homeschooling, the future of education may increasingly rely on alternatives that allow for a deeper connection to both the natural world and personalized academic pursuits.