Homeschooling was a quiet alternative to traditional school, often tied to faith-based reasons. But in recent years, something has shifted. More families are homeschooling than ever before, but with a growing twist. Many are choosing secular homeschooling.

This means they’re selecting learning materials that don’t include any religious teaching. Instead, they focus on neutrally taught academics like math, science, reading, and writing. So, what’s behind this trend? Why are families moving towards homeschooling without religion, and what does this mean for the future of education?

Let’s explore what’s fuelling this shift, how secular homeschooling works, and why many parents now see it as the best choice for their child’s learning journey.

A child sits at a table with stacked colorful books, holding an open, blank book, surrounded by art on the wall and a plant nearby.

What Is Secular Homeschooling?

Put simply, secular homeschooling is an education at home based purely on academics, free from religious or spiritual instruction. It doesn’t mean the family has no beliefs; it just means those beliefs aren’t part of the curriculum.

Parents using secular programmes may still teach faith-based values at home or through community activities, but they keep school subjects separate. This approach gives more space for independent thinking and allows children to explore ideas with fewer biases built into their learning materials.

The Shift from Religious to Secular Homeschooling

Changing Demographics in Homeschooling

Twenty years ago, homeschooling was mainly chosen by families with strong religious motivations. It offered a way to ensure children learned in line with their spiritual beliefs and values. But now, families from a wide range of backgrounds are homeschooling:

  • Secular families looking for flexible learning
  • Parents of neurodiverse children seeking personalised support
  • LGBTQ+ families who want inclusive teaching
  • Multifaith households looking for neutral material
  • Urban parents are opting for more hands-on, life-based learning.

This shift is not slight—it’s changing the face of home education entirely.

The Rise of Academic-Focused Learning

Many parents choosing modern homeschool curricula want education that aligns with current science, social understanding, and global perspectives. They want their children to learn about:

  • Evolution and climate science
  • World history through multiple lenses
  • Civics and ethics without religious influence
  • Diverse literature and culture

Religious programmes often lack or alter these subjects. Secular homeschooling allows students to engage with academic material as it is taught in higher education and the professional world.

A family of four engages in a creative activity at a table cluttered with colorful papers and art supplies in a modern living space.

Why More Families Are Choosing Secular Curricula

Let’s look at what’s driving this growing interest in non-religious homeschooling.

1. Access to Accurate, Unfiltered Science

Science education is one of the biggest motivators. Parents want their children to understand:

  • The scientific method
  • Biological evolution
  • Evidence-based environmental issues

In secular programmes, science is taught as a method of discovery rather than filtered through a spiritual worldview. This is especially important for families aiming for careers in science, medicine, or technology.

2. Inclusivity and Representation

Many secular curricula take care to represent a range of cultures, voices, and identities. In contrast, religious programmes may present more traditional or narrow viewpoints.

Inclusive education helps children:

  • Feel seen and respected
  • Learn empathy for others
  • Understand the world beyond their own experience

For modern families, this matters deeply.

3. Freedom to Teach Values Separately

One of the most common concerns about secular homeschooling is whether it excludes values and ethics. In reality, many parents appreciate the ability to teach values in their own way, on their own time.

For example, instead of using a religious framework, some families use:

  • Literature discussions to talk about right and wrong
  • Real-life scenarios to discuss choices and consequences
  • Service projects or volunteering to teach compassion

This flexibility allows families to shape their children’s character without relying on a faith-based curriculum.

Examples of What Secular Homeschooling Looks Like

Let’s break down how a typical day might look in a secular homeschool setting:

Morning Routine

  • Maths: Using a structured, grade-level workbook (e.g., Singapore Math, Math Mammoth)
  • Language Arts: Reading a mix of classic and modern books, writing short essays or creative stories

Midday Learning

  • Science: Hands-on experiments with Real Science Odyssey or Mystery Science
  • History: Learning about ancient civilisations, world wars, or human rights movements through unbiased, evidence-based resources

Afternoon Choices

  • Art, coding, music, or outdoor play
  • Independent reading or journaling
  • Online classes for specific subjects like French or geography

This happens without religious framing, giving children space to explore, question, and develop their understanding.

Popular Secular Curriculum Options

Looking for curriculum ideas? Here are several top secular programmes that families use around the world:

Curriculum Name Focus Area Style
Build Your Library Literature-based history & science Charlotte Mason-inspired
Blossom & Root Nature, creativity, and the arts Gentle, play-based learning
Oak Meadow Whole-child education Waldorf-style approach
Moving Beyond the Page Critical thinking & project-based learning Comprehensive & hands-on
Torchlight Curriculum Literature, STEAM, global cultures Modern, inclusive & academic

Each programme offers flexibility and neutral content, letting parents tailor the experience to their family’s values and learning goals.

Challenges of Secular Homeschooling

No approach is perfect. While secular homeschooling offers a lot of benefits, here are a few challenges to be aware of:

1. Limited Local Support

In some regions, homeschooling groups are still essentially religious. That can make finding secular co-ops, clubs, or events harder. However, many online communities—like Facebook groups and forums—are filling that gap.

2. Curriculum Research Takes Time

With so many options available, reviewing, comparing, and choosing the right fit can take effort. Families often try a few different resources before settling into a rhythm.

3. Balancing Value-Based Education

Some parents worry that leaving religion out of the curriculum means missing opportunities to teach values. But secular doesn’t mean value-free—it just means you control how those values are taught.

Real Stories from Secular Homeschool Families

Lena, a mum of two in Manchester, says:

“We chose secular homeschooling because we raise our kids in a mixed-faith household. We wanted their education to be shared, not tied to one belief system. It’s been the best decision for our family.”

Marcus, a dad from Birmingham, shares:

“My son is passionate about science, and I didn’t want him learning evolution as ‘just a theory’. Our secular curriculum lets him dig deep into biology and physics with no limits.”

Stories like these reflect the heart of the secular homeschooling trend—personalised, inclusive, curiosity-driven learning.

Is Secular Homeschooling Right for You?

Choosing a homeschool approach isn’t about picking sides. It’s about finding the path that fits your child’s needs, values, and goals.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want a curriculum free from spiritual or faith-based content?
  • Am I looking for inclusive materials that reflect a diverse world?
  • Do I want more say in how my child learns ethics, values, and culture?

If you answered “yes” to these, secular homeschooling might be the right path for your family.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Homeschooling

As the number of homeschooling families continues to rise, secular programmes are becoming more available, diverse, and respected. What was once a niche is now part of a growing educational movement that values flexibility, openness, and academic integrity.

Families want options. And with secular homeschooling, they’re getting them.

Ready to Explore Secular Homeschooling?

Start by researching curriculum providers, joining a few online groups, or downloading sample lessons. You’ll quickly find a world of support, resources, and inspiration.

Have questions or want help picking a curriculum? Drop a comment below.