If you’ve ever laid awake wondering if homeschooling is really the right choice for your kids—or if you’re just another burnt-out mom trying to do her best—you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, right between doubt and determination.
So I dug into the actual facts, studies, and expert takes. What I found will surprise you—and it’ll empower you, too.
The Numbers Don’t Lie—Homeschooling Is on the Rise
In 2024, over 3.7 million students in the U.S. alone are now homeschooled, according to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI). That’s more than double the number from just a few years ago.
Why the surge?
Because moms like us are realizing we want more say in what and how our kids learn.
But it’s not just a mom-instinct thing. The data backs it up.
Studies consistently show that homeschooled students score 15–30% higher on standardized tests than their public school peers (NHERI, 2024). They’re not just surviving outside traditional classrooms—they’re thriving.
What the Experts Are Saying Now
Yes, there were early critics. In 2020, Harvard’s Professor Elizabeth Bartholet raised concerns about regulation and oversight. And let’s be honest—those fears made a lot of us second-guess ourselves.
But since then, more balanced voices have emerged.
Dr. Brian Ray, a leading homeschooling researcher, highlights that homeschooled children often outperform academically and socially. In fact, a 2023 Stanford study revealed that homeschoolers tend to have stronger family bonds, deeper community involvement, and more robust emotional development.
And that big socialization myth?
It’s just that—a myth.
When children are exposed to real-life social environments—like co-ops, community groups, sports, and multi-age interactions—they often develop stronger communication and empathy skills than kids who only socialize in age-segregated classrooms.
Structure, Curriculum & Sanity (It’s Not All On You)
One of my biggest fears was, “What if I mess this up?”
Turns out, I didn’t have to reinvent the wheel.
Homeschooling today isn’t a one-woman show with a chalkboard in the kitchen. There are accredited curriculums, online academies, local co-ops, hybrid schools, and even unschooling models if that’s your thing—and many of them are either low-cost or free.
We now live in an age where you can personalize your child’s education while still having support, guidance, and structure. I use a mix of online resources, nature-based studies, and unit studies we build together—like our latest Raptors Study Unit, which just launched!
Why I Chose It Anyway
The truth?
I chose homeschooling because something in my gut told me my kid needs a different rhythm to what is seen as the norm.
A slower pace -more intentional.
More creativity.
More space to fail and try again without a red pen marking him down and breaking his confidence.
More time outside.
More family connection.
More real-life learning.
Has it been easy? No.
Some weeks, I’m Googling “easy science experiments” at 10pm while wiping flour off the counter from bread-making.
But it’s been worth it.
I’ve watched my child light up over topics he chose and snap something within minutes becausehe’sactually interested. I’ve seen confidence bloom in ways I never saw before. And I’ve found a peace in our day that public school could never give us.
To the Mom Who’s Curious But Cautious…
You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t need a teaching degree.
You just need the willingness to learn with your kids.
If you’re even considering homeschooling, that tug on your heart matters. Follow it.
You don’t have to jump in overnight, and you’re not alone. I’m here to walk with you.
Want to learn more about how to make homeschooling work for your family—even if you’re just getting started?
Join my email list and be the first to know when I launch my free Homeschool Starter Kit—packed with practical steps, resource lists, and printable tools to help you get started without the stress.
P.S. While you wait, check out our brand new Raptors Study Unit—a fun and educational deep-dive into birds of prey for all curious learners.
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Till next time.. you’ve got this mama!
Much love!
