Newest Resources

Limited public access until 1/29/25 - Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey. By Shannon Ramiro Veteran homeschoolers have all been there: your child is refusing to do work or struggling with a task you believe they should be able to handle. It can be frustrating and disheartening, leaving you unsure of how to proceed. Children resist tasks or "get stuck" for various reasons, and figuring out how to help can feel overwhelming. When this happens, here are some steps I’ve found helpful in navigating the challenge: 1. Step Back and Breathe Rome wasn’t built in a day, and learning isn’t achieved overnight. Even if the struggle has been ongoing for weeks, it doesn’t mean the solution is far off. Sometimes, taking just one day away from the situation can help recharge your emotional battery and allow you to reflect. A fresh perspective may lead to the breakthrough you’ve been seeking. 2. Reflect and Get Curious While your child watches a documentary or plays with toys, take time to think about the situation. Consider these questions: Have you encountered a similar challenge before? What worked then? Are you insisting on a specific method when another approach might be just as effective? Have you presented the topic in multiple ways—verbally, visually, and hands-on? Could you make the lesson more relatable by tying it to real-world scenarios? Would a change of scenery or environment make a difference? Spend at least 30 minutes brainstorming new ideas. Reflecting with curiosity, rather than frustration, can open doors to fresh solutions. 3. Change Your Approach The saying, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” applies here. If what you’ve been doing isn’t working, it’s time to get creative. Incorporate movement and play into learning—it not only makes lessons more engaging but also helps retain information. For example: Practice spelling by hopping onto letters written in chalk or arranging magnetic tiles on a cookie sheet. Use everyday objects to teach math concepts like grouping, patterns, or counting. Role-play or explore virtual field trips to bring history lessons to life. Look for demonstration videos to simplify science experiments. Create or find songs to help memorize math or language rules. Learning should be fun, and injecting playfulness can often turn frustration into curiosity. 4. Recognize Timing and Pacing Issues This step is especially crucial for children with special needs. Most curricula are designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, which rarely fits every learner. Adjust the timing and pacing of lessons to match your child’s needs. A curriculum that suggests covering lessons 1-3 in three days may require two weeks—or more—for your child to master the material. That’s okay! Focus on the quality of learning rather than the speed. Some topics will require more time and effort, while others may need only a quick review. Feel free to skip unnecessary activities—teachers in schools do this all the time! You’ve Got This! One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the freedom to adapt lessons to your child’s unique learning style. Don’t hesitate to use that flexibility to make learning a joyful experience again. When your child is struggling, use it as an opportunity to model problem-solving and creative thinking. Reassess the situation, shake things up, and add a touch of fun to your lessons. Finally, be patient with yourself and your child. Learning is a journey, and sometimes progress requires repetition and experimentation. Remind yourself, “I’ve got this!” because you do. What strategies have worked for you when your child struggles with schoolwork? Share your tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear them! Looking for more content like this? Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice like that offered in this article any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey.

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive? Join us as we explore Whole-Child Readiness—Body, Mind & Soul! In this insightful episode, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Heidi Tringali, an experienced pediatric Occupational Therapist, speaker, and founder of Tringali Occupational Therapy Services (T.O.T.S). Heidi’s 30+ years in OT have equipped her with simple, effective strategies to prepare kids for success in learning by nurturing their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Tune in to discover actionable tips that support your child’s development holistically and set them up for lifelong learning success. To connect with Heidi and her resources, use this link: https://www.charlotteot.com/ and https://www.heiditringali.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families! https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Limited public access until 1/27/25 - Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey. By Jen Duncan Gifted kids often keep us on our toes with how quickly they absorb and apply information. Yet, they can sometimes struggle with understanding and expressing compassion. This isn’t because they lack empathy—it’s because they often see and process these concepts differently. Gifted children are incredibly perceptive. They often notice when someone needs a kind word or helping hand before the rest of us do. However, their intense perfectionism and high personal standards can skew how they express compassion, making it seem unconventional or even absent. Recognizing this difference is the first step in helping them grow. Compassion in Gifted Kids: Misunderstood and Unexpected Gifted kids tend to be straightforward and intense, traits that can sometimes mask their compassion. People might perceive them as unsympathetic, but often this couldn't be further from the truth. Take my profoundly gifted son, for example. For years, he struggled to "fit in" at church because he was on a different emotional and intellectual wavelength than his peers. When other kids grumbled about not getting the latest phone or struggling with a difficult homework assignment, his blunt response was often, “Suck it up. It’s really not that bad.” To them, this seemed unsympathetic—and at times, it was. But his actions told a different story. For over a year, my son volunteered as a one-on-one aide for a young autistic boy during church services, allowing the child’s parents to attend uninterrupted. He brought multiple identical “Lightning McQueen” toy cars each week, knowing they were the boy’s favorite. He patiently played the same level of "Angry Birds" and followed the same playset routine every Sunday. When the boy needed to pace the hallways, my son walked with him. During meltdowns, he crouched under chairs to help calm him. When staff or teachers suggested my son take a break, his response was firm: "As long as I’m around, he’ll never have to hear someone say, ‘I don’t have time for you.’” His compassion wasn’t loud or traditional—it was steadfast and deeply thoughtful. Compassion Comes in Different Forms Our culture often equates compassion with accepting others "as they are," faults and all. While this is important, gifted children often challenge us to look deeper. One lesson I’ve learned from raising and working with gifted kids is that true compassion isn’t always about prioritizing comfort—it’s about prioritizing growth. For example, many gifted kids dislike generic praise. If they haven’t put effort into a task, they often feel disheartened by compliments. On the other hand, when they’ve worked hard and hear authentic encouragement, they light up with pride. Gifted children and teens often show compassion in this same way. They encourage others to grow, to push through challenges, and to succeed—not because it’s easy, but because it’s meaningful. This can sometimes come across as harsh, especially if others don’t understand their intent. How We Can Help Navigating this unique form of compassion can be tricky, but with guidance, gifted kids can learn to balance their high expectations with an understanding of others’ needs. Here are a few ways to support them: Be an Honest Sounding Board: Gifted kids often know they think differently but may not realize how their actions are perceived. Openly discussing their motivations, goals, and others’ perspectives can help them adjust their approach. Encourage Perspective-Taking: Help them understand that not everyone shares their intensity or viewpoint. Role-playing and discussing different scenarios can build empathy. Model Compassion: Show them how to balance kindness with growth by leading through example. Demonstrate how to encourage others in ways that are both supportive and constructive. Gifted kids have the potential to influence and inspire others in incredible ways. With our support, they can learn to express their compassion in ways that resonate with those around them. Share Your Insights Parenting and teaching gifted kids is never simple, but it’s profoundly rewarding. Helping them understand and navigate compassion is just one piece of the puzzle. What strategies have you found effective for nurturing compassion in gifted kids? Share your experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear them! Looking for more content like this? Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice like that offered in this article any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey.

Limited public access until 1/23/24 - Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey. February is just around the corner, and while it’s the month of love, let’s be honest: winter weather and stir-crazy kids can make homeschooling feel anything but warm and fuzzy. If you’re in need of a fresh spark, why not take a break from the usual lessons and dive into some Valentine-themed fun? These 20 free learning activities will help you refocus on the love of learning while keeping your kids engaged and entertained. Ready to fall back in love with homeschooling? Let’s jump in! 1. Lego Valentine Learning Activities Combine the magic of Legos with Valentine’s Day for STEM-inspired fun. LEGO Valentine Building Ideas - Little Bins for Little Hands 2. Valentine Hearts Spelling Game Practice spelling skills with a heart-filled twist. Perfect for early learners. FREE Valentine Spelling Game {Valentine Word Bump!} 3. Valentine Math Facts Game Make math fun with a Valentine-themed game to practice addition, subtraction, and more. Valentine Math Facts Game - This Reading Mama 4. Valentine Scavenger Hunt Create an exciting hunt with free printable clues to get kids moving and thinking. Sweet Valentine's Day Scavenger Hunt (With Printable Clues) 5. Threaded Heart Paper Plate Craft Help little hands improve fine motor skills with this adorable heart craft. Threaded Heart Paper Plate Craft for Valentines Day - Easy Peasy and Fun 6. Valentine's Day Speech Therapy Activities Creative ways to work on speech goals while celebrating love and friendship. 10 Valentine's Day Freebies for Speech and Language Therapy - TLC Talk Speech & Language with Tamatha Cauckwell 7. Candy Hearts STEM Activities Explore math, science, science, and more with those colorful candy hearts. 13 Candy Heart Activities - Simply Kinder 8. Brain-Building Valentine Activities Boost fine motor skills, midline crossing, and visual planning with fun exercises. Brain-Building Valentine's Activities for Gross and Fine Motor Development - Integrated Learning Strategies 9. Valentine’s Day Unit Study Learn about the history and traditions of St. Valentine through books, art, and videos. Valentine's Day Unit Study - Year Round Homeschooling 10. Science Experiments for Valentine’s Day Turn hearts and candy into chemistry, physics, and biology experiments. Heart Science Experiments To Inspire A Love Of Learning 11. 25 Valentine Process Art Projects Encourage creativity with art projects designed to let your kids' imaginations soar. 25 Lovely Valentine Process Art Projects for Valentine's Day - Left Brain Craft Brain 12. Valentine-Themed Light Table Activities Brighten up the season with engaging light table ideas. 15 Valentine's Day Themed Light Table Activities | And Next Comes L - Hyperlexia Resources 13. Love Your Neighbor Unit Study Teach your kids about kindness and intentional love with these thoughtful activities. Love Your Neighbor Unit Study Freebie - Thrifty Homeschoolers 14. Valentine’s Day Montessori Work Discover Valentine activities aligned with Montessori principles. Montessori-Inspired Valentine’s Day Activities 15. Heart Visual Discrimination Printable Help kids sharpen their visual skills with this heart-themed activity. Heart Visual Discrimination Printable 16. Valentine’s Day Games and Brain Breaks Let your kids blow off some steam with these active and engaging games. Valentine's Brain Break - Free PDF for Movement and Music - Your Therapy Source 17. 30 Valentine’s Day Speech and Language Activities Packed with ideas to enhance speech and language development while celebrating. 30 Valentine's Day Speech Therapy Freebies You'll Love! - Speech Sprouts 18. History Behind Valentine’s Day Bring history to life with a Valentine-themed study resources. The History of Valentine's Day for Kids 19. Valentine’s Day CVC Board Game Fun phonics practice for early readers with a Valentine twist. Valentine's Day CVC Board Game - Liz's Early Learning Spot 20. Scripture Heart Valentine Art Project Encourage creativity and faith with printable scripture valentine projects. FREE Scripture Themed Valentine's Day Printables and Crafts Still searching for inspiration? Check out SPED Homeschool’s Valentine Pinterest Board with over 200 more activities. While you’re there, explore other SPED Homeschool boards for even more great ideas. This Valentine’s Day, let love inspire your homeschool. Which activity will you try first? Looking for more content like this? Get a Navigator Membership for just pennies a day to open searchable content in hundreds of articles just like this one, so you can access expert advice like that offered in this article any time day or night during on your homeschooling journey.

Join host Dawn Jackson from the Empowering Homeschool Conversations podcast as she sits down with Dr. Selena Coffman, a nervous system-based chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, to explore how chiropractic care can support children with autism and ADHD. Dr. Coffman shares her expertise in addressing root causes of nervous system dysregulation and practical ways to promote calm, focus, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or simply curious about holistic approaches to supporting unique learners, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable solutions. To connect with Dr. Selena and her resources, use this link: https://vesselchiro.com/ or use this contact information to connect with her directly: 208-391-3974 @vessel_chiro And to learn more about the - Pediatric Chiropractic Directory, visit: https://pxdocs.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families! https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Dianne Craft, MA, CNHP Are you working with a bright, hardworking child or teenager who seems to work too hard to learn? This is the student who doesn’t respond to the curriculum or teaching strategies that worked well for your other children. You might find yourself on your fourth reading or phonics program, third math program, or another new approach to spelling, all to no avail. If this is your first child experiencing such struggles, the situation may become even clearer when younger siblings or other students easily shout out answers that your struggling learner is working hard to figure out. That’s when you think, “Something isn’t right.” You may begin wondering if your child has a processing issue, learning disability, or dyslexia. What makes it more puzzling is that this child is often articulate and loves to listen to stories. So, what’s going on? Dr. Mel Levine, MD, in his book One Mind at a Time, explains that all learning requires energy, which he refers to as "battery energy." This term resonates because it perfectly captures what happens with struggling learners—they expend far more energy than typical learners to complete tasks like writing, remembering sight words, or applying phonics. You can see the battery drain right before your eyes. The real question is, Why does this child have to work so hard at tasks that should come more easily? The Four Learning Gates The energy drain often occurs because one or more of the Four Learning Gates are blocked. These gates represent information pathways essential to learning. Children who learn easily typically have clear pathways, while struggling learners may have multiple blocks. When a learning gate is blocked, the necessary skill hasn’t transferred into the brain’s "automatic hemisphere." As a result, the child must focus intensely on a task that should require minimal effort. Here’s a closer look at the Four Learning Gates: 1. Visual Processing Gate Moving the eyes across a page from left to right is not a natural skill—it’s taught. If this process hasn’t fully transferred to the automatic hemisphere, the child must work excessively hard to read. Characteristics of a blocked Visual Processing Gate: Reading reversals (e.g., "on" = "no," "was" = "saw") after age 7. Skipping small words but reading longer words with ease. Reading begins smoothly but quickly becomes labored. Yawning or fatigue soon after starting to read. 2. Writing Processing Gate If the act of writing hasn’t transferred into the automatic hemisphere, the child may seem sloppy or unmotivated. This is especially common in gifted children, who may avoid writing altogether. Characteristics of a blocked Writing Processing Gate: Frequent letter reversals after age 7 (even occasionally). Laborious copying. Poor spacing in written work, especially in math. Great oral storytelling but minimal writing output. Preference for mental math to avoid writing. 3. Auditory Processing Gate A true auditory processing issue goes beyond difficulty following directions. It often affects reading and language acquisition. Characteristics of a blocked Auditory Processing Gate: Phonics sounds don’t stick, no matter how often they’re practiced. Difficulty memorizing sight words or even alphabet letters. Repeatedly sounding out the same word while reading. Challenges sequencing sounds (e.g., months of the year, skip counting). "Word guessing" while reading. Spelling without phonetic patterns (e.g., “Thursday” spelled as “Tuesday”). 4. Focus/Attention Gate This gate can be the hardest to identify. A child may appear to have a memory or learning problem when, in reality, they are expending too much energy just trying to stay focused. Characteristics of a blocked Focus/Attention Gate: Inconsistent performance from day to day. Requires constant supervision to complete work. Frequently forgets previously learned material. Impulsive behaviors or emotional outbursts. Sensory sensitivities (e.g., clothing tags, loud noises, transitions). You Can Help You don’t need to be an expert to make learning easier for your child or student. With the right tools, strategies, and techniques, you can address these blocks and unlock their potential. On my website, I share detailed explanations and actionable steps for each learning gate. These corrections, developed during my years of teaching special education, are simple yet effective. Bottom Line: Learning doesn’t have to be so hard. By identifying and addressing blocked learning gates, you can help your child thrive.

By Dyana Robbins There’s nothing quite like the excitement of starting something new. The sense of adventure, hopefulness, and promise can be intoxicating. Some people embrace a new challenge with enthusiasm bordering on fanaticism. I am one of them. This was especially true when I began homeschooling. I chose homeschooling out of a deep conviction that it was the best option for my son, a decision shaped by my experiences with all the alternatives. Those experiences led me to reroute my career and life to meet his needs. Fueled by determination, I embraced homeschooling like a drowning person grabs a flotation device. While those bumpy beginnings brought great rewards, eleven years later, I also see the mistakes I made. Here are some lessons I’ve learned along the way. 1. Jumping into a Pressure Cooker The intense responsibility and commitment I felt toward my son drove me to extremes. I threw myself into learning everything about homeschooling and quickly began to believe it was the best educational option—for everyone. Not only that, I adopted a specific homeschooling philosophy that idealized parental authority and influence. This approach promised solutions to cultural and educational problems through stronger parental involvement. While I still value many aspects of this philosophy, I now see how I misplaced my hope in a method rather than viewing it as one tool among many for helping my son. This idealization left me feeling stressed when our family didn’t mirror the lifestyle or results promoted by the movement. Instead of being a relaxed and joyful homeschool mom, I became driven and overly focused on reaching an ideal, which only deepened our struggles. You can avoid this mistake: Don’t put homeschooling—or any one method—on a pedestal. 2. Defending Our Decision When we decided to homeschool, we didn’t know anyone else who had done it. The idea felt foreign and radical, and I struggled with self-doubt. This made others’ questions about our decision feel personal and even painful. I responded to both curious inquiries and criticism with lengthy explanations. In hindsight, these explanations rarely changed anyone’s mind. Over time, however, friends, family, and professionals came to respect our decision—not because of my arguments, but because they saw the results. 3. Treating Homeschooling as Insurance Part of homeschooling’s appeal for me was its ability to insulate my son from bullying and negative social pressures. While homeschooling does provide some protection, it’s not foolproof. We still encountered challenges in co-ops and social gatherings. Deep down, I wanted a formula that guaranteed success. Despite my efforts to avoid that trap, I fell into it anyway. At some point, I began trusting homeschooling as a safeguard against the struggles my children would inevitably face. Homeschooling has been a wonderful tool for shaping and disciplining our children, but it is just that—a tool. Real protection and transformation come from God, not a specific educational choice. 4. Doubting My Decisions Curriculum, therapies, activities—you name it, I doubted it. Every decision felt monumental, and I worried that one misstep could derail my children’s future. Thankfully, experience taught me that most choices can be tweaked or changed without catastrophic consequences. Veteran homeschooling moms reassured me that I didn’t need to have everything figured out. Their wisdom lifted a heavy burden from my shoulders. If you’re stuck in this cycle of doubt, take heart: You don’t have to get it all right to succeed. 5. Falling into the Comparison Trap If you want peace, avoid comparing your homeschool, family, or life to others’. Early on, I sought affirmation by measuring our progress against other families, hoping to feel encouraged. Spoiler alert: It didn’t work. Comparison is a joy killer. It leads to either pride or despair—neither of which fosters a healthy homeschool environment. We all know that each family’s needs are unique, yet comparisons are pervasive in homeschooling circles. Whether we’re discussing curriculum, teaching methods, or lifestyle, it’s easy to let comparisons creep into the conversation. Guard your heart against forming harsh judgments—of yourself or others. Instead, focus on being an encouragement to fellow homeschoolers. In Conclusion Reflecting on my early homeschooling mistakes is bittersweet. Sharing them with you is humbling, but I hope it encourages you. If my story resonates with you, know this: Homeschooling doesn’t have to be marked by fear, doubt, or striving. You can choose a different path. If you’re wondering how someone as crazy, immature, and fearful as I was got into homeschooling, I’m with you. But God often uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. I’m living proof of that truth. By His grace, our sons have grown beyond every prognosis they were given. They are well on their way to becoming productive members of society (that’s a joke—they absolutely will be!). We’re still learning, growing, and changing, and I’m sure I’ll make new mistakes along the way.

by Susan Leckband from Help Elevate Learning Processing Why Doesn’t My Child Remember This? Many homeschool parents find themselves asking, “Why doesn’t my child remember this? We went over it yesterday, and they had it down, but now it’s like they’ve never seen it before. Am I failing as a teacher?” I’ve been there too. My bright son struggled to retain information. If 5 + 4 equals 9, why didn’t 4 + 5 click for him? Why was spelling such a battle? If he read the word dog yesterday, why couldn’t he recognize it today in a new sentence? Eventually, I had his information processing skills evaluated and learned that he had extremely low visual and auditory processing abilities. This explained so much: Why he couldn’t retain information I repeated endlessly. Why recalling visual details was so hard. Why reading and writing were sources of endless frustration. Why those timed math fact tests felt impossible. But we didn’t stop there. Through targeted strategies, we worked on developing his processing skills. I also adjusted my teaching to match his kinesthetic learning style. For example: Writing and spelling became fun with shaving cream on the counter or wet sand. Jump rope turned into a tool for learning skip counting. Tailoring Learning to Processing Strengths Children with auditory processing struggles often excel with visual materials, such as written instructions, pictures, and diagrams. Conversely, auditory learners with low visual processing may thrive with audiobooks instead of battling frustration with reading. For children with difficulty in spatial-temporal concepts, challenges with place value, understanding time, or messy handwriting can emerge. Organizing columns in math might feel like herding snakes. These children may benefit from manipulatives or visual, hands-on approaches that break down abstract concepts like time and place value. The Right-Brained Learner Many children we encounter are creative, right-brained thinkers. They’re problem solvers, often finding unique ways to tackle challenges. However, their non-linear thinking can make it tough to show their work in conventional ways. By incorporating hands-on activities, manipulatives, and visual aids, they can bridge the gap between creativity and structured learning. The Note-Taking Dilemma Taking notes isn’t always a one-size-fits-all solution. Some children focus so hard on writing what they’ve heard that they miss the rest of the lesson. Others struggle with shifting between visual material and their notes. Identifying whether note-taking helps or hinders your child is key. Breaking Down Processing Challenges Auditory and visual processing involve three critical skills: Understanding: Does your child correctly interpret what they see or hear? Sequencing: Can they keep information in the right order? Memory: Do they retain the information accurately? Sometimes, a “saved” memory feels like a corrupted computer file—incorrect and misleading. Misunderstandings caused by processing weaknesses can look like inattentiveness or a lack of attention to detail, but they are often correctable. Flexibility Is Key Homeschooling requires flexibility, especially when teaching children with diverse learning styles. Here are some tips: Kinesthetic Learners: Incorporate movement, manipulatives, or hands-on activities. Visual Learners: Use colors, pictures, and diagrams. Auditory Learners: Engage with rhymes, music, and storytelling. Avoid projecting disappointment. Children naturally want to please their parents, and perceiving frustration—even if unintended—can hinder their progress. Discovering and Teaching to Strengths Understanding how each child learns is transformative. Matching curriculum to your child’s strengths makes teaching less stressful and more rewarding. The wrong curriculum—whether auditory, visual, or kinesthetic—can harm their self-esteem and hinder progress. By tailoring your teaching and curriculum to each child’s unique learning style, you create a more positive and successful homeschooling experience for everyone. About the Author Susan Leckband is the Executive Director of Help Elevate Learning Processing (HELP) and has been supporting families for nearly 20 years.

In this powerful episode, host Peggy Ployhar and guest Elizabeth Urbanowicz delve into the journey of overcoming bullying through a lens of faith. With Elizabeth’s rich background in Christian education and her passion for developing critical thinking and biblical worldview in children, they explore practical ways to help young hearts and minds heal, forgive, and find joy rooted in Christ. Join us to discover a restorative path forward that equips kids to move beyond hurt and thrive in their faith. To connect with Elizabeth and her resources, use this link: https://foundationworldview.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families! https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Jen Dodrill from History at Home For some people, homeschooling is synonymous with being unsocial or even antisocial. As homeschoolers, we often wonder why this misconception persists. We know our kids are socialized—or at least we work hard to make it happen. But what if your child has social or sensory needs, and socialization feels like an uphill battle? In this post, I’ll explore what socialization really means and offer practical tips for helping kids with social and sensory needs thrive in social situations. My Personal Experience I’ve learned so much about sensory needs from my granddaughter. She’s in therapy to learn how to adapt, and my daughter shares what they’ve learned so we can all work together to support her. Anything we can do to help my granddaughter, we do! What Exactly Is Socialization? Socialization is a concept that means different things to different people. Some interpret it as social activity, others as social influence, and still others as social exposure. According to researcher Durkin (1995), however, socialization is best defined as: "The process whereby people acquire the rules of behavior and systems of beliefs and attitudes that equip a person to function effectively as a member of a particular society." It’s important to note that this definition is not tied to a specific place, time, or age. Socialization is not just about participating in activities or interacting with others—it’s about equipping our children to function in their world. Direct and Indirect Socialization When children are young, they often engage in parallel play—playing alongside others without direct interaction. This is a form of indirect socialization. As kids grow, they typically progress to direct socialization, interacting more actively with their peers. For children with social or sensory challenges, indirect socialization may feel safer and more comfortable. Direct interaction can be difficult, and for some, it may feel overwhelming or even crippling. While we must respect our children’s limits, it’s also important to provide opportunities for social growth. In the article 5 Tips for Homeschooling Your Child with ASD, the author suggests these ideas: Joining a homeschool co-op Attending homeschool classes at the zoo, museum, or library Participating in sports, gymnastics, or ballet Enrolling in music or choir lessons Joining VBS or other church activities You know your child best. Whether you’re encouraging baby steps or taking bolder strides, progress may be slow—but that’s okay! Tips for Socialization for Kids with Social and Sensory Needs Socializing can be overwhelming for kids—and even adults! Loud noises, bright lights, and large groups can quickly lead to overstimulation. Once overstimulated, kids may shut down or have meltdowns. Here are some tips to make socialization more manageable: Identify a Safe Spot and Person Have a designated safe spot or person your child can go to if they feel overwhelmed. My daughter has always done this, even before we realized there was an issue. Familiar Faces Help Knowing someone at an event can reduce anxiety. Start Small Let your child be around others without requiring direct interaction. This can be a stepping stone to more engagement. Seek Small Groups Library story times or other small gatherings are often easier for children with sensory needs. Limit Overstimulation Look for activities where only one person is talking at a time. Provide Choices Help your child feel empowered by offering choices. For example, my granddaughter sometimes wants to order food at a restaurant, but not always. She knows the decision is hers. Adjust Celebrations Split birthday parties into smaller gatherings—one for friends and one for family. Hosting events outside can also be helpful. Simplify Holidays Large, loud family gatherings can be overwhelming. Consider quieter, more relaxed celebrations when possible. Wrapping It Up What others think about socialization is their business. Your job is to equip your child to function in the world in a way that meets their unique needs. Teaching kids with social and sensory needs to socialize can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. Keep learning, adapting, and reaching out for support. Specialists in sensory integration, ABA, or occupational therapy can be invaluable resources for setting and achieving your goals. Remember, you have the choice in how you approach socialization—and no one knows your child better than you do. About the Author: Jen Dodrill has been married for 35 years and is a proud mom to five kids. She homeschooled her three youngest, with her “baby” graduating in May 2020. Refusing to bow to empty-nest syndrome, Jen teaches Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor and creates curriculum under History at Home on TeachersPayTeachers and Boom Learning. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with her kids and adorable granddaughters. Connect with her on her blog (Jen Dodrill History at Home), Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest!

By Dawn Spence and Amy Vickrey The New Year brings an opportunity to reflect on past successes and challenges while setting new goals for the months ahead. For homeschooling parents, this season is the perfect time to evaluate what’s working, what isn’t, and what needs to change in their homeschool journey. After taking a well-deserved break during the holiday season, January can serve as a refreshing restart. Here are four key areas to consider when setting new goals for your homeschool: curriculum, schedule, methodologies, and community. Curriculum: Tailoring Learning to Your Child’s Needs Sometimes the curriculum we carefully selected doesn’t meet our child’s needs as anticipated. This is your permission to tweak, adapt, or even change course entirely. Adjustments can lead to significant improvements in engagement and learning outcomes. Questions to Ask: What aspects of the curriculum are working well? What would work better with a slight adjustment? What isn’t working at all, and why? Does the curriculum still fit our current goals and my child’s evolving needs? Are there alternative approaches that could address specific challenges more effectively? Pro Tip: Research curriculum reviews, talk to other homeschool parents, or explore trial versions before making a switch. Small tweaks, like supplementing with additional resources or adjusting the pace, can sometimes make all the difference. Schedule: Finding the Right Rhythm A successful homeschool day often hinges on a schedule that works for your family’s unique dynamics. As your children grow, their learning rhythms and needs may change, making this a critical area to reassess regularly. Questions to Ask: When is my child most focused and ready to learn? Does my child benefit from breaks, and if so, how frequently? What type of visual aids or organizational tools help keep us on track (e.g., checklists, timers, or visual schedules)? How do our outside commitments (therapy, co-ops, extracurriculars) influence our daily flow? Do I need to allocate more planning or prep time for myself before starting lessons? Pro Tip: Experiment with a flexible schedule that allows for adjustments based on your family’s energy levels and commitments. Sometimes shifting subjects to different times of the day can make a significant impact. Methodologies: Adapting to What Works Best Every child learns differently, and the beauty of homeschooling is the ability to customize your approach. If your current teaching methods aren’t yielding the desired results, explore other styles that might align better with your child’s needs and interests. Questions to Ask: What types of activities keep my child engaged and help them retain information? What teaching methods or styles do I enjoy? Do I have time to create my own materials, or do I need a ready-to-go solution? Are there specific subjects that might be better suited for outsourcing (e.g., online courses, tutors, or co-ops)? What approaches have intrigued me but I haven’t tried yet (e.g., gameschooling, unit studies, or road schooling)? Pro Tip: Take note of your child’s feedback and observe their responses to various teaching strategies. A willingness to try something new can reignite their enthusiasm for learning. Community: Building Your Support System Homeschooling can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re navigating unique learning challenges. Surrounding yourself with a supportive and resourceful community can make a significant difference. Whether you seek in-person co-ops or online forums, finding a group that aligns with your family’s values and needs can provide the encouragement and camaraderie you’re looking for. Questions to Ask: What type of support am I seeking (e.g., academic, social, or emotional)? Do I prefer in-person or online connections? What types of environments work best for me and my child? How much time and energy can I realistically dedicate to outside activities? Are there opportunities for both me and my child to connect with others? Pro Tip: Check local libraries, community centers, or homeschooling organizations for support groups. Online platforms like Facebook groups or specialized forums can also be invaluable for finding like-minded families. Celebrate What’s Working While it’s important to identify areas for improvement, don’t forget to celebrate your victories. Reflect on the progress you’ve made, both big and small. These wins serve as a reminder of why you chose to homeschool and can motivate you to keep going. Final Thoughts: Change is a natural and necessary part of any homeschooling journey. By evaluating your curriculum, schedule, methodologies, and community, you can make meaningful adjustments that benefit your entire family. Remember, the goal is not perfection but progress that honors your child’s unique learning journey. About the Authors: Dawn Spence is a dedicated mom who homeschools her three children, including twin daughters with learning disabilities. With a heart for teaching, she inspires others to embrace their inner educator. Amy Vickrey brings a wealth of experience as a classroom teacher and specialist in special education and learning diagnostics. She homeschools her two sons while running Exceptional Heights Education Services, which offers testing, homeschool classes, and consulting for families with unique learners.

In 2018, as our weekly broadcast was just gaining momentum, I had the privilege of interviewing Andrew Pudewa on Empowering Homeschool Conversations. During our conversation, I mentioned how I successfully taught my son to write using The Institute for Excellence in Writing’s (IEW) program, which Andrew developed and asked how I found it worked best for teaching my child. My response was simple: "slow and steady." You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel. In this article, I want to expand on that concept and explain how adopting a "slow and steady" approach in homeschooling not only led to educational successes for my own children but can also transform your homeschool journey. Pressure to Succeed Too often, I meet parents overwhelmed by the pressure to get their child "caught up" to typical learning or developmental timelines. The educational community—including homeschooling circles—can unintentionally amplify this pressure, leading parents to fixate on long-term milestones like college readiness when their kindergartner is just learning letters and numbers. Having homeschooled for over 19 year and graduating three struggling learners, I now see how much of this external pressure derailed my focus. My “progress panic attacks” often created as many challenges as my children’s learning struggles or defiant outbursts. Progress Instead of Pressure In hindsight, I realize that my most effective homeschooling moments came when I resisted external pressure. When I stopped focusing on what we hadn’t achieved and kept my attention on steady, forward progress, I noticed real, meaningful growth. Adopting a "slow and steady" approach meant adjusting to each child’s pace of learning. On some days, it felt like we were going through the motions, repeating lessons endlessly, and moving at a snail’s pace. But that is the essence of slow and steady teaching—it focuses on the present moment and addresses what needs teaching right now, not what we hope to achieve tomorrow. 5 Tips for Homeschooling Slow and Steady If you’re struggling to implement a "slow and steady" mindset in your homeschool, here are five actionable tips to help you stay on track: Create a General Plan Design a learning plan that focuses on goals and steps rather than rigid deadlines. Many parents find it helpful to write a homeschool Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for their child, with regular intervals for assessment—monthly or quarterly works best. Our website offers free resources to help you write an IEP Teach According to Your Plan Stick to the plan you’ve created. While it may sound simple, staying consistent without succumbing to panic is often the hardest part. Take it one day at a time, focusing on incremental progress. Don’t Accelerate Faster Than Your Student Moving too quickly can actually hinder learning. Adjust your teaching pace to match your child’s capacity to absorb lessons, ensuring they retain knowledge and can apply it later when tackling more complex tasks. Take Frustration Breaks When frustration builds—either for you or your child—pause and reassess. Sometimes a change in teaching methods is necessary. Other times, taking a break from the subject entirely can help. If neither approach works, consider seeking professional guidance. Avoid Comparisons Your child is unique, and so is their learning journey. Avoid comparing their progress to siblings, friends’ children, or any so-called "normal" developmental timelines. All children learn at their own pace, often in fits and starts. Embrace their individuality. Evidence Worth the Wait During my conversation with Andrew Pudewa, I confessed that while using his curriculum, my son never wrote a single paper for me throughout his homeschool years. Day by day, we worked through the writing lessons, learned the steps, and practiced the mechanics of good writing. Despite our efforts, it felt as though no tangible results emerged. After graduating, my son would occasionally email or text me, but still, no essays. Then, when he entered college at 18, he began writing insightful, well-structured papers—and earning A’s in his English classes. This moment validated the slow and steady process I had adhered to for years. He had absorbed the skills; he just needed time to apply them in his own way. Moving Forward with Confidence As you set your goals for the new year, I encourage you to release any anxiety or fear about your child’s future. Instead, focus on the steps you can take today. By homeschooling slow and steady, you can build a foundation for lasting success—not just for your child, but for yourself as their teacher.