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by Penny Rogers When it comes to sensory processing, the vestibular and proprioceptive systems play a major role in a child’s ability to focus, stay calm, and function effectively. Unfortunately, many children with challenges in these areas are misdiagnosed or misunderstood, and their sensory needs go unmet—leading to increased difficulties over time. If you’ve identified sensory issues in your child and are looking for ways to help them focus and regulate better, this post will break down what vestibular and proprioceptive input really mean and offer practical, engaging activities to support sensory processing at home. What Is Vestibular Input? Without sounding too encyclopedia-ish, vestibular input refers to the sensations our bodies feel when the head changes position. Inside our inner ear are fluid-filled canals lined with tiny hairs. When our head moves, the fluid shifts and activates these hairs, sending signals to the brain about our movement and balance. Children who seek vestibular input are often “on the move.” You might find them climbing, spinning, hanging upside down, or swinging endlessly. This input helps with more than just balance—it’s essential for body awareness, visual-motor skills, and coordination. What Is Proprioceptive Input? Proprioceptive input is the awareness of our body in space through pressure, movement, and resistance. It’s triggered by actions like pushing, pulling, lifting, and stretching. This input helps children develop posture, coordination, self-regulation, and focus. For many autistic children, proprioceptive input is calming. You might notice a child chewing, toe-walking, or seeking out deep pressure to self-regulate. Others may be overly sensitive and avoid this kind of input. Understanding and supporting this need can make a big difference in how a child experiences the world. Signs Your Child May Be Seeking Vestibular or Proprioceptive Input Vestibular-Seeking Behaviors: Rarely gets dizzy Constant movement Loves spinning Climbs to high places Proprioceptive-Seeking Behaviors: Chews or bites on objects Enjoys rough play Sits with knees tucked Walks on toes Bumps or bangs body into things Sensory Activities to Support These Needs These activities can be used to calm, stimulate, or regulate sensory input. Start small, observe how your child responds, and adjust as needed. Encourage them to help choose activities, and don’t be afraid to get creative! Vestibular Input Activities Rock on a yoga ball Practice simple yoga poses Pretend to row a boat (rocking back and forth) Skip, gallop, or run Jump rope Do handstands or cartwheels Use a trampoline Ride a bike or roller skate Proprioceptive Input Activities Crawl or do animal walks (bear, crab, etc.) Do push-ups (wall push-ups work too) Play tug-of-war Carry books, laundry baskets, or weighted bags Run or jump Blow bubbles or use a straw to blow cotton balls (oral input) Give and receive tight hugs When and How to Use These Activities If you’ve identified your child’s triggers or patterns, try doing sensory activities before signs of distress appear. Integrate them naturally into your daily routine. For example, include jumping jacks in your morning routine, or take a sensory break between lessons. You can also create a system where your child learns to recognize when they need a break—maybe they ask for a “calming activity” or point to a visual schedule with options. Keep activities short (30 seconds to a few minutes) but frequent. It might take time to find what works, and needs may change. Keep observing, adjusting, and involving your child in the process. Final Thoughts Supporting your child’s sensory needs doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few thoughtful, consistent activities, you can help them feel more balanced, calm, and focused. Whether you’re homeschooling or just navigating day-to-day life, understanding the vestibular and proprioceptive systems gives you a powerful tool for growth. About the Author: Penny blogs over at Our Crazy Adventures In Autismland. Based on her personal experiences with autism, she provides practical advice for families navigating autism from diagnosis to adulthood. Her blog features homeschool printables, DIY therapy ideas, ebooks, and more. 

By Ruth Meed Over the years, I’ve used charts, checklists, and graphs to help track my child’s progress toward meaningful, real-world learning goals. But what exactly is a “real-world goal,” why does it matter, and how can we make that progress both measurable and motivating? Let’s walk through a simple framework that blends educational standards with practical application—and equips you to track and celebrate your child's achievements. 1. What Is a Real-World Goal—and Why Is It Important? A real-world goal is a learning objective that’s grounded in both academic expectations and practical, everyday application. It answers the question: “When will my child actually use this?” Whether it’s understanding multiplication, learning to read a map, or writing an email, a real-world goal connects the what and why of learning. It also makes the effort more meaningful for your child—especially if they struggle with motivation or learning differences. 2. Start With Grade-Level Standards (But Use Them Wisely) Real-world goals often begin with a quick look at grade-level standards. These benchmarks provide a framework for what’s commonly expected at different ages. You can find grade-level learning goals through your state’s department of education or reputable homeschool curriculum providers. Keep in mind: these are suggestions, not mandates. You know your child best, and it’s okay—even ideal—to adjust the sequence or pace based on how your child learns. Example: A common standard in many countries is that children should master their multiplication facts by the end of third grade. This implies they’ve already been introduced to skip counting in second grade, laying the foundation for multiplication. 3. Ask: Is This Realistic for My Child Right Now? Once you've identified a possible goal, evaluate whether it's appropriate for your child’s current abilities: ✅ What parts of this goal can they already do—or almost do? 🧠 What parts still need development? 🚧 Will this goal challenge them without overwhelming them? A great tool is simply printing out a list of objectives and marking them up with: Green for mastered or comfortable skills Yellow for skills in progress Red for areas needing more support This gives you—and your child—a clear picture of what’s next. 4. Tie It to the Real World To deepen motivation, ask: “Where might my child use this in everyday life?” Sometimes the connection is obvious: Multiplication facts help with measuring and budgeting. Reading comprehension is essential for understanding directions and safety labels. Writing skills are needed for job applications or emails. Other times, the benefit is more about building life skills: Perseverance Critical thinking Confidence Let your child know that success isn’t just about “getting it right”—it’s about sticking with it even when it’s tough. For struggling learners, this perspective is empowering. The process becomes just as valuable as the outcome. “Practice makes perfect is more important than the end goal because it gets you to the end goal.” 5. Make It Measurable Educators often use the phrase “observable and measurable” when writing goals. That simply means: can I see that my child has learned this, and can I measure it in some way? Here’s an example of a measurable goal: Goal: “Student Sally will recite all multiplication facts from 1 to 10 by the end of the school year.” We can then break this larger goal into smaller, trackable objectives with timelines and assessment methods. Mastery Date Objective Test Method Mastery Goal End of 1st Nine Weeks Recite multiplication facts for 2, 5, and 10 Written quiz 100% End of 2nd Nine Weeks Recite multiplication facts for 3, 4, and 6 Written quiz 100% End of 3rd Nine Weeks Recite multiplication facts for 7, 8, and 9 Written quiz 100% 6. Modify Goals to Match Your Child’s Needs Every child learns differently, and it's okay to adjust expectations to build success. Lower the benchmark: 100% accuracy may not be realistic. You might aim for 80% or 8 out of 10 facts. Change the method: Instead of oral recitation, try pointing to answers on a chart, using manipulatives, or writing the answers. Focus on key facts: If learning all multiplication facts is too much, mastering 2s, 5s, and 10s might be a more appropriate short-term win. The goal is always growth, not perfection. 7. Track and Celebrate Progress Charts, checklists, and visual progress trackers can help your child see how far they’ve come. This builds momentum and confidence. Try: A sticker chart A wall graph Digital progress trackers A binder portfolio of completed work When they see their progress in a tangible way, even reluctant learners begin to take ownership of their learning. Final Thoughts Real-world goals make learning meaningful. They help you teach with purpose—and help your child grow with confidence. By aligning academic standards with your child’s unique abilities and future needs, you're not just checking off boxes—you’re building a foundation for lifelong success.  

By Jan Bedell, Ph.D., Master NeuroDevelopmentalist & SPED Homeschool Board Member Teaching methods have evolved over time—some have fallen out of favor, while others have become more specialized through targeted curricula. Many of these methods cater to specific learning styles, and that’s a good thing. After all, every child is uniquely wired. But what if I told you there are three small adjustments you can make that could dramatically impact your child's ability to learn? Why Consider a Brain-Based Approach to Learning? To start with, consider this: the brain controls everything we do. That alone makes a strong case for using a brain-based approach to education. When the brain is well-organized and sensory input flows freely, learning becomes more efficient. A child with strong short-term auditory and visual memory has a much easier time acquiring and retaining information. And if what they learn gets stored in long-term memory and is easily retrieved—without the familiar “but you knew this yesterday!” frustration—then the learning cycle is truly complete. So, how do we get from inefficient, often frustrating learning experiences to this ideal cycle? The answer lies in the NeuroDevelopmental (ND) Approach. In a nutshell, the ND Approach uses the brain’s incredible ability to change—also known as neuroplasticity. By giving the brain targeted stimulation, we can build new pathways that lead to improved function. The central strategy of this method centers around what I call the Three Keys to Input: Frequency (F) – how often a child receives input Intensity (I) – the strength or engagement level of that input Duration (D) – how long the input is given over time Together, we call this FID. These three keys unlock better coordination, improved memory, enhanced sensory feedback, and more effective long-term storage of information. Using FID in Math Let’s look at how FID works in practice—starting with math. Math computation is often taught with a rush toward independence using output-focused methods like worksheets, speed drills, or flashcards without answers. But here’s the issue: output before mastery can actually reinforce wrong answers and create more confusion. Instead, try input-based methods. When teaching a new math concept, solve 3–5 problems with your child. This gives them clear input (F) in a short, pressure-free session (D) delivered with positivity and energy (I). As your child gains confidence, continue this method by doing 50% of the math lesson together each day to keep reinforcing the concept. At Brain Sprints, we developed the Rapid Recall System, a brain-based technique where students see, hear, say, and write five math facts 14 times per day—taking just six minutes! Sound effects enhance the experience, making it more intense and engaging. Children who once struggled to recall math facts now master them with ease. Think you don’t have time for this kind of engagement? Consider how much time you currently spend checking work, correcting mistakes, re-teaching, and managing frustration. Shifting your approach might actually save you time—and your sanity. Using FID in Reading Now let’s look at reading. Instead of asking your child to produce the sound of a phonogram (output), provide the input. Select five phonogram cards and simply say the sounds as you show each one. Mix up the cards and repeat for just one minute, twice a day, for about a week. That’s it! If your child still struggles, it might indicate deeper issues with brain function. Ask yourself: Is there an underlying vision issue? Is the brain storing information inefficiently? Is short-term memory weak? Is the brain disorganized? Once your child knows all the phonograms but still has trouble decoding words, it may be time to assess their auditory processing skills, which are essential for phonics-based reading. You can learn more in this short video on auditory processing. A well-functioning sensory system also plays a key role in attention and focus. If your child is distracted easily or overwhelmed by sensory input, these issues may be at play. For insights and solutions, check out these Brain Coach Tips videos: It’s Not That Loud! (Auditory Sensitivities) It’s Just a Sock (Tactile Sensitivities) Helping All Learners with the ND Approach The Brain-Based Teaching method known as the Brain Sprints NeuroDevelopmental Approach has shown success with children of all types—those with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, Down syndrome, and sensory processing disorders. When you realize that the brain controls everything, it just makes sense to address learning challenges at the root. Check out Brain Sprints on our Recommended Providers page Join Jan's group here on Homeschool Heroes if you have a Navigator membership or above membership to get more tips.

    Is your child struggling to read, despite your best efforts? You’re not alone! This week, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Dr. Joe Lockavitch, a renowned reading expert and the creator of Failure Free Reading, to share breakthrough strategies for helping nonreaders and struggling readers succeed. With over 30 years of experience training teachers, parents, and administrators, Dr. Joe believes that reading failure is not the fault of the student but rather the instructional approach.   In this episode, he’ll reveal: -Why traditional methods fail struggling readers -How to accelerate vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency—quickly! -Practical, proven strategies parents can use at home -Real success stories from students once deemed ‘nonreaders’   If you’re searching for effective, research-backed techniques to unlock your child’s reading potential, don’t miss this conversation!   To connect with Dr Joe and his resources, visit: https://www.failurefreeonline.com/educator/   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/   NEW to SPED Homeschool and the Homeschool Heroes platform: Consultations and Cognitive Testing. Here is Now What's Available for Your Family through SPED Homeschool:   One-on-One Consultations – Get expert guidance in homeschooling a struggling student, curriculum choices, accommodations, behavior strategies, executive function support, high school planning, and more. Our consultants provide personalized recommendations to help you move forward with confidence. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/consultants   MindPrint Cognitive Assessment – Finally, a strengths-based approach to education. This easy, at-home cognitive assessment provides unbiased insights into how your child learns best. It helps you understand where they’ll naturally excel and where they may need extra support—allowing you to tailor your teaching effectively with data that tells you exactly how your student learns best! https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4344/mindprint-student-assessment   MindPrint + Consultation Bundle - When you bundle the MindPrint test with a consultation, you unlock a database of MindPrint teaching resources only accessible to our consults, which gives you even more in-depth and personalized homeschooling help to help your student learn successfully. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4345/mindprint-student-assessment-plus-consultation   You don’t have to struggle through this journey alone. We’re here to give you the tools and confidence you need to create a home learning environment where your child flourishes. 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/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Lara Lee When my son was diagnosed with autism at five years old, I knew he couldn't attend a traditional school. Even though we had spent time around other children at church, on playdates, at library reading hours, and during mommy-and-me music classes, he had developed a phobia of other children. When a child entered a room, my son would either have a meltdown or curl up on the ground in fear. I realized I had to homeschool him. My biggest question was, “HOW do I teach this child?” Notice I didn’t ask, “What do I teach this child?” The “what” is built into nearly every curriculum. But when I tried to use these “self-teaching” lessons, my son would just sit there, fidgeting, doing nothing I asked. That’s when I found Maria Montessori’s book, The Absorbent Mind. This wasn’t the Montessori method often associated today with gifted programs. In the early 1900s, Montessori started her career teaching institutionalized children with disabilities. Her students later tested academically higher than many typically developing children of her time. Here are five key lessons I learned from her early work — lessons that changed the way I taught my son: 1) Don’t Do Anything a Child Can Do for Themselves: The Hand-over-Hand Method This might sound contradictory, but the hand-over-hand method can be a powerful tool to foster independence. You gently guide a child’s hand through an activity — not forcing, but helping. With my son, I placed a pencil in his hand and guided him to trace letters. As he became more confident, I gradually moved my hand to his wrist, then had him attempt one on his own before assisting with the others. The goal is to build muscle memory and create neural pathways. Parents use this intuitively when teaching toddlers to wash their hands or brush their teeth. It can also be applied to writing, typing, cutting, and more. I realized how critical this was when I observed a special education classroom. The teachers were cutting and pasting activities for the students, who simply watched. The students were learning helplessness. They would have benefited far more from having their hands guided to complete the task themselves. Thanks to this method, my son learned to write in both print and cursive — and today, he loves drawing Sonic characters using online tutorials. 2) Don’t Talk So Much Montessori once observed a student-teacher explaining what a square was, saying, “Look class! This is a square. It has four straight sides. One, two, three, four…” and so on. The children fidgeted and wandered off. Montessori then took a red square and a red circle and gave them to the most distracted child: “This is a square. Say ‘square.’” “This is a circle. Say ‘circle.’” “Which one is the square?” The child answered correctly. Lesson complete. For special needs children, too much verbal explanation is overwhelming. Cut the fluff. Focus on one concept at a time. If your child learns just one thing per lesson, that’s enough. 3) Children Learn Through Their Senses Montessori believed children learn best through sensory input — touching, tasting, hearing, and seeing. Even though we have labels like visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learners, research shows that the more senses we engage, the better we learn. Montessori favored hands-on “toys” over worksheets. She saw play as a child’s work. This was challenging for me at first. My son disliked crafts and was too distracted by math manipulatives. But we found what worked through trial and error: Songs with movement, real chores (taught hand-over-hand), science experiments, YouTube videos, games on the tablet, typing, Play-Doh, field trips, flashcards, felt boards, and notebook timelines. I often turned to TeachersPayTeachers.com to find less talk-heavy, more interactive ways to teach our curriculum. It took prep work — but it made learning possible. 4) Observe and Record Progress Montessori approached teaching like a scientist — observing and recording what her students were doing. Many of us are familiar with ABA therapy or developmental checklists used by speech and occupational therapists. I began doing this myself by downloading developmental checklists and checking off skills my son had mastered — not to compare him, but to see what to work on next. Some lists focused on social skills, others on academic milestones like the Texas TEKS, or speech development benchmarks. I reviewed them monthly, noting dates of new accomplishments and setting new goals based on what was missing. 5) Relationships Are Primary Above all, Montessori’s teaching was rooted in genuine relationship. She cared for her students, played with them, and taught with passion. Her joy became their motivation. This reminded me: If you’re excited about what you’re teaching, your child will be too. Don’t force yourself to teach something that bores you. Find a format or approach that both of you can enjoy together. I hope these lessons from Montessori’s early work help you the way they helped me. With patience, creativity, and a focus on how your child learns — not just what they learn — you can create an educational journey that’s both meaningful and joyful.

By Peggy Ployhar Before the term "homeschool pod" became common during the COVID-19 crisis, our family had already experienced the incredible benefits of learning in a small, personalized homeschooling community. These pods helped us create some of the richest and most meaningful educational experiences alongside other homeschooling families. The Basics of Creating a Homeschool Pod Creating community takes effort—and that’s often why people shy away from it. But the benefits far outweigh the challenges. When we connect with others who are different from us, we gain perspective, empathy, and insight—both as parents and as children. For families homeschooling a child with special educational needs, a pod can be an especially powerful environment. Other children in the pod may not have previously encountered someone with a learning or physical challenge, offering everyone a chance to grow in compassion and understanding. Don’t feel limited to only connecting with families who have children with similar diagnoses or needs. Instead, reach out to families nearby who are also looking for community. Chances are, they need connection just as much as you and your child do. How to Find Families for a Homeschool Pod Here are a few practical ways to find and form your pod: Ask around your neighborhood or local parks to identify other families who are homeschooling this year. Join local homeschool Facebook groups, library events, or church homeschooling ministries. You can post an invitation to connect or attend gatherings. Discuss views on key issues like COVID-19 precautions, educational goals, and discipline philosophies to ensure alignment. Set expectations up front: How often do you want to meet? Weekly? Monthly? What kinds of activities—field trips, co-op classes, playdates—are you hoping to share? Be collaborative: Make sure all families are willing to pitch in and share responsibilities. This includes parents and students alike. Foster an open, respectful culture where each family’s values are honored, and conflict is addressed constructively. “This small, personalized homeschooling community gave our family some of our richest and most meaningful learning experiences.” Setting Up Your Homeschool Pod Once you've gathered interested families, take the following steps to set yourselves up for success: Start with a parent-only planning meeting to discuss the structure, rhythm, and goals of your group. Keep your plans flexible for the first month as everyone settles in. Choose a communication method (group text, email thread, Facebook group, or app like GroupMe or Band) for organizing activities and schedule updates. Show up consistently and extend support beyond academics. A strong pod provides emotional and relational support to families, too. Create a Homeschool Pod Oath. This can be a simple agreement that outlines values like: Respecting individuality Being accountable Helping each other in and out of group time Staying teachable and open to growth Offering grace, forgiveness, and understanding The Long-Term Value of a Homeschool Pod Looking back, the years we spent meeting regularly with our homeschool pod were some of the most impactful in our homeschooling journey. The relationships we formed—both for my children and for me—have lasted far beyond our time of learning together. Many of these families remain our dearest friends. Looking to Connect Locally? If you're looking for support in getting started, check with these resources: State homeschool associations often maintain directories or Facebook groups by region. Our website offers support for families of unique learners, including local community connections. Your local library or community center may host homeschool meetups or bulletin boards for networking. Whether your pod is just two families or a dozen, the shared effort to build community can bring joy, growth, and lasting connection to your homeschool journey.

By Dr. Rebecka Spencer When Your Child Doesn’t Seem to Hear You... Ever found yourself wondering, “Can that kid hear me?” or “Why doesn’t he just follow instructions?” As a mom and educator with over 18 years of experience—and now homeschooling two struggling learners—I’ve been there. Both of my children have auditory processing challenges, and one is hearing impaired. That journey opened my eyes to something I wish I had learned much sooner: auditory processing is not about the ears. It’s about how the brain interprets sounds. What is Auditory Processing? Auditory processing is the brain’s ability to: Decode language Make sense of sound Form an appropriate response So, a child may hear perfectly but still struggle with understanding, sequencing, and remembering what was said. Auditory Processing vs. Dyslexia: What’s the Connection? Dyslexia is a language-based reading disorder. Auditory processing delays often co-exist with dyslexia. Both involve struggles with sound discrimination, language comprehension, and verbal memory. Sometimes, what looks like dyslexia or even ADHD is actually an auditory processing issue. Real-Life Example When my 4-year-old son was asked to: “Put on your shoes, grab your coat, and come here so I can help you zip up,” he came back with: A ball cap and a coat… but no shoes. That’s not disobedience—it’s a processing issue. Auditory Processing Checklist Wondering if your child might have an auditory processing weakness? Start here: Behavioral Clues Needs instructions repeated often Frequently misunderstands spoken directions Forgets steps in a multi-step command Easily distracted by background noise Appears to ignore you but passes hearing tests Mixes up similar-sounding words (e.g., “bullfallow” instead of “buffalo”) Speech & Language Indicators Delayed speech development Poor rhyming or sound discrimination Mixes up syllables or word order Struggles with sequencing events or ideas Academic Challenges Difficulty with reading or spelling Often reverses numbers or letters Struggles to follow oral instructions May seem inattentive or be misdiagnosed with ADHD Milestones to Watch For (Baseline guidelines for following commands) 2–4 years: 2–3 step instructions 5–6 years: 3–4 step instructions 7+ years: 5–7 step instructions Why Early Detection Matters If a child doesn’t respond appropriately to sound, parents often assume a hearing problem. But auditory processing involves the brain, not just the ears. Even with perfect hearing: A child may not understand what was said. They may remember steps out of order. They may react slowly or get overwhelmed by too much input. The Role of Reflexes in Processing Have you heard of the ATNR reflex (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)? This primitive reflex should integrate by 6–12 months. If it doesn’t, it can affect: Crawling patterns Directional hearing Sound localization Auditory development Talk to your pediatrician about checking reflex integration during well-child visits. How Auditory Delays Show Up Over Time Birth–6 months Recognizes familiar voices Responds to soothing sounds Prefers repetitive background noise 6–12 months Turns toward sounds Associates sounds with movement (e.g., crawling toward a voice) Begins to imitate simple sounds 12–24 months Learns simple commands Responds to name and sound cues Combines simple words (“mama go,” “more juice”) 3–5 years Understands basic questions Follows 2–3 step instructions Knows directional terms (behind, under, on top) Vocabulary increases to 200–400+ words What Can You Do Next? Have your child’s hearing checked to rule out physical issues. Add an audiologist or developmental specialist to your team. Work on language-building activities at home: rhyming, sound games, and sequencing. Consider primitive reflex integration exercises if ATNR is suspected. Be patient and adjust expectations—this isn’t disobedience. It’s a processing difference. Final Encouragement As a mom and professional educator, I didn’t know all this at first either. But understanding auditory processing changed how I taught, parented, and advocated for my children. And it can do the same for you.

  Homeschooling children with neurodivergent needs can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it can also be incredibly rewarding. In today’s episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Leilani Melendez is joined by Felicia Johnson, a seasoned homeschooling mom of eight, to discuss “Homeschooling Hacks for Neurodivergent Families.” With over two decades of experience, Felicia shares her best tips for tailoring education to fit each child’s unique needs, from navigating challenges like ADHD and dyslexia to leveraging strengths and fostering confidence. If you’re homeschooling a neurodivergent child, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you create a supportive, successful learning environment. To connect with Felicia and her resources, visit: https://thetailoredhomeschool.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/ NEW to SPED Homeschool and the Homeschool Heroes platform: Consultations and Cognitive Testing. Here is Now What's Available for Your Family through SPED Homeschool: One-on-One Consultations – Get expert guidance in homeschooling a struggling student, curriculum choices, accommodations, behavior strategies, executive function support, high school planning, and more. Our consultants provide personalized recommendations to help you move forward with confidence. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/consultants MindPrint Cognitive Assessment – Finally, a strengths-based approach to education. This easy, at-home cognitive assessment provides unbiased insights into how your child learns best. It helps you understand where they’ll naturally excel and where they may need extra support—allowing you to tailor your teaching effectively with data that tells you exactly how your student learns best! https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4344/mindprint-student-assessment MindPrint + Consultation Bundle - When you bundle the MindPrint test with a consultation, you unlock a database of MindPrint teaching resources only accessible to our consults, which gives you even more in-depth and personalized homeschooling help to help your student learn successfully. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4345/mindprint-student-assessment-plus-consultation   You don’t have to struggle through this journey alone. We’re here to give you the tools and confidence you need to create a home learning environment where your child flourishes. 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/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Stephanie Buckwalter  Homeschooling is an ideal environment to help your special needs child make progress on therapy goals. The key is understanding what drives your child's need for therapy—and how neurological organization plays a central role. What is Therapy? Therapy is simply training the body to do things that come naturally to a neurologically organized brain. In individuals who are neurologically organized, development progresses in predictable, "normal" ways. When someone needs therapy, it usually indicates a disconnect between the brain and body, resulting in dysfunction. Many disorders and dysfunctions fall along a spectrum. Terms like mild, moderate, severe, or profound indicate degrees of neurological disorganization. A child with mild disabilities is just a little neurologically disorganized; a child with profound disabilities is much more so. Therapy works by moving a child toward better neurological organization and, consequently, improved functional abilities. How the Brain Relates to Therapy Neurological organization and therapy hinge on three interconnected processes: Sensory Input – Information gathered from external senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell) and internal senses (proprioception—body awareness—and vestibular balance). Brain Processing – Storing information, recalling memories, making connections, sequencing actions, and sending motor signals. Motor Output – Actions like speaking, running, writing, reading, playing, and performing tasks. The therapy your child receives should address one or more of these three stages. The goal is to help your child function more easily and effectively in daily life. Therapy Principles: Frequency, Intensity, and Duration To influence the brain, therapy should manipulate sensory input by varying: Frequency – How often the activity occurs Intensity – How focused or challenging the activity is Duration – How long the activity lasts When addressing profound disabilities—or when starting therapy for a new skill—begin with high frequency, high intensity, and short duration. Think of a baby learning to crawl. They attempt over and over (high frequency), focus completely (high intensity), but tire quickly (short duration). As they master crawling, the intensity lowers, the duration increases, and the movement becomes effortless. Therapy should follow the same pattern. Homeschooling offers a perfect setting to implement therapy because you can easily adjust the frequency, intensity, and duration of activities daily. Watch for Negative Sensory Input Sometimes, negative sensory input—like uncomfortable clothing, loud noises, lighting issues, or food reactions—can cause behavioral challenges. Tracking these incidents can reveal patterns. (You can use the Incident Report Form included in my free ebook, Crash Course: How to Teach Your Special Needs Child at Home, which also explores more neurological concepts.) Understanding Motor Output Therapies The most familiar therapies—Physical Therapy (PT), Speech Therapy (ST), Occupational Therapy (OT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)—focus on motor output. These therapies are often covered by insurance or provided through schools. Because our children may not intuitively grasp physical, social, or emotional skills, they need direct teaching. When your child is receiving therapy, ask for daily homework and apply frequency, intensity, and duration to practice and reinforce skills. Brain Processing Therapies If the brain itself struggles to function well—due to damage, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or structural issues—then therapies focusing on brain integration are key. These may include: Rhythmic Movement Therapy Music Listening Therapy Brain Gym® exercises Activities that balance the brain’s hemispheres Other interventions, like biomedical, holistic, or naturopathic treatments, can also play vital roles in improving brain function. Homeschooling gives you flexibility to integrate these supports into your child’s daily life. What Does This Mean for My Child? As a homeschooler, you have the freedom to work on therapy at times and for durations that suit your child's needs—and not just for therapy goals, but for academics and life skills too. Example: One of my sons struggled with reading. By the end of fourth grade (and after trying multiple curricula), we made a breakthrough using a simple yet powerful method. We worked through a list of 2,000 high-frequency words, grouped into 20-word sets. Each day we read through a few lists together—high frequency (daily practice), high intensity (reading was hard for him), and short duration (just a few words at a time). After a few months, he achieved significant reading progress. Interestingly, after a summer break with no additional reading practice, his skills improved even further. His brain had processed the input and filled in the gaps! Sometimes focusing on input and consistency—rather than demanding immediate output—can produce remarkable results. Another example: For my daughter with moderate disabilities, working on neurological organization (rather than pure academics) produced the most dramatic gains. While she attended public school, I focused on home therapies. Teachers frequently noted surprising improvements—validating that neurological work at home, not classroom instruction alone, was fueling her growth. When we skip therapies, she struggles, slipping into fight-or-flight responses. When we maintain them, she thrives both intellectually and behaviorally. If therapy isn't producing the results you hope for, consider whether your child needs more support with sensory input or brain processing before focusing on motor output. How to Incorporate Therapy into Your Homeschool Day Here are simple ways to boost neurological organization through homeschooling: Apply frequency, intensity, and duration principles to: Therapy homework Academic or life skills goals Difficult subjects Add developmental movement activities: Brain Gym® exercises or activities from Smart Moves Rhythmic movement therapy for retained reflexes Daily walks to stimulate brain integration through natural cross-lateral movement Exercise or dance Train motor output: Learn therapy exercises from your child’s therapist Use hand-over-hand support to teach physical tasks Gently manipulate body movements to promote correct function Never give up on your child, regardless of their age. Every step toward better neurological organization improves their ability to thrive in life.

By Kathy Kuhl What if you didn't realize your child was dyslexic until they reached high school? That’s exactly what happened to a family I spoke with recently. Their bilingual high schooler had struggled for years, and the experts kept saying, "She's only struggling with reading because she's bilingual." It was an easy mistake to make — but it cost them precious time. Now, while taking online high school classes, this teen’s frustration has soared. She feels overwhelmed and discouraged. My heart aches for her and her parents, who have been trying to find her help while living abroad. This can happen whether your student uses an online curriculum, attends a traditional school, or homeschools. Often, a learning disability becomes more apparent when the pace and complexity of education intensify — during transitions into middle school, high school, or college. For years, some students manage to compensate for their learning challenges through intelligence and hard work. But eventually, the struggle can become too great to overcome without customized support. Here’s how you can help if you discover your teen is dyslexic: 1. Understand Educate yourself and your teen. Visit Dyslexic Advantage and watch their videos. They offer practical help, an online community, and insight into how dyslexia often coincides with strengths in specific areas. Read The Dyslexic Advantage by Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide. This book, written by medical doctors and former homeschoolers, reveals the hidden strengths tied to dyslexia. The final third offers practical advice for educational accommodations, but the first two-thirds will change how you and your teen see dyslexia. [Link to my review here.] Be compassionate. Reading can be physically painful for dyslexic students. I know two successful adults — one with an M.Ed., the other an M.D. — who both say that reading hurts. It's essential to understand and empathize with your teen's daily struggles. 2. Curriculum Effective reading instruction matters. Here are some options that can work from home: Barton Reading and Spelling System — Sue Barton’s program is parent-friendly and offers excellent video resources. Alphabetic Phonics by Aylette Royall Cox — an Orton-Gillingham-based program parents can use (not to be confused with Alpha Phonics). All About Reading by Marie Rippel — another strong, multi-sensory option. Lexercise — a pricier choice offering online tutoring with trained therapists. Note: There are many other programs; see the resource list below. 3. Experts Consider a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) or an Orton-Gillingham-trained tutor. Though expensive, this support can be life-changing. In hindsight, I wish I had invested earlier in an academic therapist for my son rather than saving for college. Explore alternative online learning options. If your current online program isn’t working, platforms like Time4Learning might offer more flexibility. (They offer a free trial — worth investigating, though I don’t personally know families who used it at the high school level.) 4. Tools Use audiobooks and text-to-speech options. Any PDF can be read aloud using Adobe Acrobat Reader (under the "View" tab). Sites like Audible, Bookshare, Learning Ally, and Librivox are great sources for audiobooks. Tap into assistive technology. PCs and Macs have accessibility tools built-in — often hidden under “Accessibility” settings. Many states offer free training through centers like Virginia’s T/TAC system. Experts like Joan Green also offer online resources on assistive tech (Innovative Speech). 5. Strategies Focus on your teen’s strengths. Morale is crucial. Let the bulk of their day center on their strengths and interests. Reserve time for structured reading intervention using methods designed for dyslexia — not traditional approaches. Customize learning approaches. If online curriculum is necessary, find ways to include hands-on or interest-based learning. For example, I know a family whose teen shut down academically during a family crisis — but loved Japanese manga and anime. They built a year’s curriculum around anime, including Japanese history, language classes, and art. That teen later caught up academically and graduated from a prestigious art school! Even small customizations — like weaving hobbies into assignments — can make a huge difference. 6. Resources Dyslexic Advantage — videos, articles, community The Dyslexic Advantage by Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide — [My Review] Barton Reading and Spelling System — [Bright Solutions website] Alphabetic Phonics by Aylette Royall Cox — webinars available All About Reading by Marie Rippel Lexercise — online therapy support Finding a Certified Academic Language Therapist or Wilson-trained tutor — [See my blog post] Audiobook sources: Audible, Librivox, Bookshare, Learning Ally Assistive Technology Resources: Joan Green at [Innovative Speech] Virginia’s T/TAC Centers Georgia Project for Assistive Technology Search “Assistive Technology” + your state/province for local help This article was originally published on Learn Differently: http://www.learndifferently.com/2017/09/07/help-teen-dyslexic/ It is republished here with permission. Please note: Some links are affiliate links.

By Peggy Ployhar Most high school students have no idea what career — or even what career fields — might interest them. So, if you've asked your teen for suggestions and all you've gotten in response is, "I don't know," don't get frustrated! That's a perfectly normal stage in their journey. To help you guide your teen through career exploration, here are my top 3 career assessment tools. These tools can provide useful insights and help your student discover paths they might not have considered otherwise. 1. My Next Move Interest Assessment My Next Move offers a free online questionnaire that profiles a student's interests and connects them with possible future career choices. It’s simple, intuitive, and a great first step. 👉 Take the assessment here: My Next Move Interest Profiler 2. Holland Code Career Test (Truity) The Holland Code Career Test is based on the scientifically validated Holland Code model, which matches a student's interests, talents, and aptitude to potential jobs. The basic results are free, and a full report is available for a small fee. 👉 Take the test here: Holland Code Career Test (Truity) 3. Career One Stop Assessments (U.S. Department of Labor) Career One Stop is a government-sponsored website that offers several helpful assessments to assist with career exploration, including: Career Interest Assessment: A quick 30-question quiz to identify broad areas of interest. 👉 Career Interest Assessment Skills Matcher Questionnaire: Rates your student's abilities across 40 workplace skills. 👉 Skills Matcher Questionnaire Work Values Survey: Helps students prioritize what they value most in a working environment and match those values to compatible careers. 👉 Work Values Survey Additional Resources for Parents Homeschooling Through Career Exploration: SPED Homeschool High School Checklist: Wondering how to structure your special education homeschooling through high school? Download our free checklist for guidance and encouragement. 👉 High School Checklist for Special Education Homeschooling  Homeschool Heroes Resource Hub: Access free enrichment curriculum ideas, learning supports, and transition planning tips tailored for unique learners. 👉 Homeschool Heroes Resources  Occupational Outlook Handbook (Bureau of Labor Statistics): Explore detailed information about hundreds of different jobs, including job outlook, required education, and average salary. 👉 Occupational Outlook Handbook BigFuture by College Board - Career Exploration Tools: Use free career quizzes, exploration guides, and planning tools designed specifically for high school students. 👉 BigFuture Career Exploration Roadtrip Nation Career Finder: An interactive experience that matches students with potential careers based on their interests and passions. 👉 Roadtrip Nation Career Finder Helping your teen explore possible career paths can be an exciting part of the homeschooling journey. With the right tools and a little encouragement, you'll be amazed at the possibilities they discover!

Homeschooling is a beautiful journey, but let’s be honest—it can also be exhausting, overwhelming, and downright overstimulating! If you find yourself losing patience, feeling constantly drained, or struggling to stay calm amid the chaos, you’re not alone. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Whitney Whitten, a pediatric occupational therapist turned mom coach, to share practical strategies for managing parent overload and modeling calm at home. Tune in as we discuss sensory needs (for both kids and parents), ways to reduce overwhelm, and how to create a homeschool atmosphere that fosters connection rather than burnout. To connect with Whitney and her resources, visit: https://sensationalmoms.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/ NEW to SPED Homeschool and the Homeschool Heroes platform: Consultations and Cognitive Testing. Here is Now What's Available for Your Family through SPED Homeschool: One-on-One Consultations – Get expert guidance in homeschooling a struggling student, curriculum choices, accommodations, behavior strategies, executive function support, high school planning, and more. Our consultants provide personalized recommendations to help you move forward with confidence. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/consultants MindPrint Cognitive Assessment – Finally, a strengths-based approach to education. This easy, at-home cognitive assessment provides unbiased insights into how your child learns best. It helps you understand where they’ll naturally excel and where they may need extra support—allowing you to tailor your teaching effectively with data that tells you exactly how your student learns best! https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4344/mindprint-student-assessment MindPrint + Consultation Bundle - When you bundle the MindPrint test with a consultation, you unlock a database of MindPrint teaching resources only accessible to our consults, which gives you even more in-depth and personalized homeschooling help to help your student learn successfully. https://www.spedhomeschool.com/store/products/4345/mindprint-student-assessment-plus-consultation You don’t have to struggle through this journey alone. We’re here to give you the tools and confidence you need to create a home learning environment where your child flourishes. 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://adaptedhomeed.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ 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.