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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 Cheryl Swope, M.Ed. Hey Mama, Let’s get real—homeschooling can be tough. Parenting is already a challenge, right? Throw homeschooling into the mix, and it’s easy to feel like you’ve taken on more than you can handle. On some days, it feels like we’re juggling it all: managing meltdowns, making meals, and trying to teach phonics or math while keeping the baby from crawling into the dog’s water bowl. And then there’s the constant doubt. Are we doing this right? Are we enough? I’ve been there. I homeschooled my twins from birth all the way through high school, and let me tell you, it wasn’t always picture-perfect. Some days were wonderful. Others? Let’s just say they were less than Instagram-worthy. But looking back, I’ve learned one thing that changed everything: All is His. The Doubts We Carry When my twins were little, I constantly wrestled with questions like: Am I messing up my kids? Are they learning enough? How do I balance their needs with everything else I have to do—work, friendships, my marriage? Sound familiar? Those doubts can creep in and make you feel like you’re failing. But here’s the truth: we don’t have to carry it all. God reminds us over and over in Scripture that He’s got this. “In Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Nothing in your day—no meltdown, no lesson gone wrong, no sleepless night—happens by accident. It’s all part of His plan, and He’s using even the messiest moments to shape you and your child. The Mystery of God’s Care Here’s the part that brings me so much comfort: God’s care for us is personal. He’s not some far-off being watching from the sidelines. He’s actively involved in every detail of your life. Think about it: God makes the sun rise each morning. He grows the flowers in your yard. He even designed the cherry blossom that turns into fruit—tiny details we often overlook. If He cares for those little things, how much more does He care for you and your child? All is His It’s easy to feel like we’re the ones holding everything together, but the truth is, it’s God who provides for us daily. He gives us the strength to get up and do it all over again, even when we’re running on fumes. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). When we bring our struggles, fears, and even our pride to Him, we can rest in knowing He’s got us. Jesus carried it all to the cross—even our worries about being “enough.” And right now, He’s praying for you. He sees you. He knows the hard days and the good ones, and He’s working it all out for your good. A Reminder for Today So, Mama, the next time you feel overwhelmed by homeschooling—or life in general—remember this: You don’t have to do it all. God has already given you everything you need in Christ. You can trust Him to provide for today and for tomorrow. “All is His.” The good days, the hard days, and all the in-between days. He’s got you. You’re not alone in this journey. Take a deep breath, say a prayer, and know that you’re doing something beautiful—even on the messy days. You’ve got this, because He’s got you.

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.

By Mary Winfield As parents of children with special needs who also choose to homeschool, we face unique and complex challenges. We juggle the dual roles of educator and caregiver, all while adapting to the individual needs of our children. On top of these demands, we are not exempt from the regular trials and tribulations of life—unexpected financial strains, health crises, or even the daily grind of managing a household. This year, I’ve found myself facing what feels like an endless barrage of challenges. Each time I thought I had steadied my footing, another wave would crash. It has been a journey of learning not just to endure but to find peace amidst the struggles. Understanding True Peace In the Gospel of John, we learn that the peace offered to us by the Savior is not the same as the fleeting peace offered by the world. Christ says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you” (John 14:27). The world’s idea of peace often revolves around eliminating hardships. If we could just avoid struggles or fix all our external problems, we think we might finally feel at ease. But such peace is shallow, easily disrupted by life’s inevitable challenges. As I pondered what true peace means, I was drawn to Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.” What a profound declaration! Paul acknowledges the reality of trials—being troubled, perplexed, persecuted, and cast down—but also proclaims a resilient hope. This scripture shifted my perspective. For too long, I believed that if my faith were strong enough, I would be immune to feelings of confusion, frustration, or despair. But that’s not what peace is. True peace is not the absence of external hardships. It is the steady, life-giving spring within us, as described in John 4:14, “a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” This peace sustains us no matter the chaos swirling around us. It does not mean we never feel troubled or perplexed, but it prevents those feelings from growing into hopelessness or despair. Finding Peace at Its Source How, then, do we access this wellspring of peace? Returning to 2 Corinthians 4, we find the answer just two verses earlier: “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (v. 6). When life feels heavy and darkness seems to close in, we can turn to the ultimate “light of the world” (John 8:12). Christ, who has endured all things, shines light into our hearts when we invite Him in. Because He “trod the winepress alone” (Isaiah 63:3), we do not have to face our burdens alone. The source of unshakable peace is The Prince of Peace Himself. When our peace is rooted in Him, nothing external can steal it from us. Living in Peace This understanding has transformed how I approach life’s trials. Instead of trying to force away confusion or frustration, I now focus on drawing closer to the Savior. When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself to turn to Him for strength. Sometimes this looks like praying for comfort, even in moments when the answers to my questions are unclear. Other times, it’s finding solace in scripture, hymns, or quiet reflection. I’ve learned that peace doesn’t always come in a rush of relief. Often, it’s a slow and steady light, growing brighter as I trust in His promises. As parents, we can model this peace for our children, teaching them to anchor themselves in Christ when life feels uncertain. Our example becomes a testimony of resilience and hope. Let us remember that true peace does not mean the absence of trials but the assurance that we are never alone in facing them. Through Him, we can remain troubled but not distressed, perplexed but not in despair. This is the peace I am learning to embrace—and it is the peace He offers to all who come unto Him.

By Amy Vickrey, MSE They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and I’ve found that to be just as true for the little men in my house. However, showing love through food in our family comes with extra challenges. My boys have special needs and dietary restrictions, which makes crafting meals and treats a unique puzzle. They, like all children, want something special to eat for holiday events—and I’m determined to make that happen. One chilly autumn afternoon, as my youngest peeked over the counter, he asked, “Mom, can we make something yummy for Christmas?” “Of course,” I replied with a smile. “How about Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies?” His eyes lit up. “Will they have chocolate chips?” “Absolutely! The best ones,” I assured him. These cookies have become a family tradition, and you wouldn’t believe how quickly they disappear from the counter. Even though they’re Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Egg-free, and Peanut-free, they’re packed with flavor and loved by everyone. “Mom, can I pour the chocolate chips?” my older son asked as we set up the ingredients. “Sure thing,” I said, handing him the bag. “But remember—no snacking until we bake them!” He grinned, already planning a sneaky grab. Here’s the recipe so you can create this festive joy in your home too. Ingredients: 4 ½ cups Gluten-free flour (or a 1:1 baking mix, like Pillsbury. If using GF Bisquick, omit the baking powder) ½ cup Sugar ¼ cup Sunflower lecithin powder (I prefer NOW brand) 3 Tablespoons Baking powder 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon (or more to taste) 1 teaspoon Salt Mixing Directions: Mix dry ingredients in a bowl until evenly distributed. Add wet ingredients: 4 cups Almond milk (or coconut/soy milk for nut-free) 3 Tablespoons Avocado oil (substitute with coconut, canola, or vegetable oil) 2 Tablespoons Vanilla (Mexican vanilla is best) 1-30oz or 2-15oz cans of Pumpkin Blend with a mixer until combined, scraping the bowl's sides as needed. Finally, fold in: 1 pound Chocolate chips (mini chips work best). “Are we done yet?” my youngest asked impatiently, eyeing the cookie dough. “Not quite,” I laughed. “We still have to bake them!” Baking Directions: For Cookies: Scoop dough into a cookie sheet and bake in a 400°F oven for 12-14 minutes. For Waffles: Use this batter (with or without chocolate chips) in a waffle iron. Follow your waffle iron’s instructions. My smaller square iron cooks them perfectly in 5 minutes. As the cookies baked, the warm aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon filled the kitchen. “Smells like Christmas,” my oldest declared. Once they cooled, the boys grabbed their cookies and cups of hot cocoa, grinning from ear to ear. These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies have become more than just a recipe—they’re a tradition, a memory, and a little taste of holiday magic. Now it’s your turn to make these treats for your family.

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar and guest Suzanne Gose explore how learning a second language can be a powerful tool for struggling learners. Suzanne, a former public school teacher, transitioned to homeschooling over two decades ago when her love for teaching inspired her to offer local Spanish classes. Since that first small offering, Suzanne has taught Spanish and public speaking to homeschool students weekly, believing in the transformative potential of language to engage and empower learners who may face academic or social challenges. As a homeschool advocate and founder of the Community Homeschool Center, Suzanne brings a wealth of experience in creating supportive learning environments tailored to unique learners. She'll share how a new language can aid in social interaction, confidence, and cognitive growth, drawing from her years of teaching and her commitment to helping children and families find success in their homeschooling journeys. To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership   To connect with Suzanne and her resources, use this link: https://www.flipflopspanish.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/ Be sure to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 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.