I never imagined I would be homeschooling my children. I believed if I wanted to be a teacher, I would have pursued that path in my post-graduate studies. I envisioned myself in a classroom, crafting lesson plans, managing behaviors, and ensuring that all learning styles were met. However, the truth is, I chose not to become a teacher because I lack the patience for it. Teachers are often undervalued and underpaid; their hard work is often overlooked until we, as parents, are forced into their roles.
Now, like many of you, I find myself at home, managing the challenges of homeschooling. My situation is further complicated because my three children all have special needs, each with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan. These plans outline the accommodations and services they receive in school, such as support for speech, cognitive development, behavioral management, and academic goals. They typically work with trained professionals who assist them in overcoming various challenges.
Before the pandemic, my children thrived within their structured school environments. My son became engaged in a subject he loved, which improved his focus. My daughter learned to tackle difficult assignments with a more positive mindset, needing fewer breaks. My youngest blossomed into a leader among her peers, showing remarkable growth in following directions. However, in March, everything changed drastically.
Now, I’m juggling work from home while homeschooling my three kids, who require individual attention to stay focused and calm. This often means reaching out to their teachers for insights on how to keep my children with autism and ADHD on task. I frequently text my daughter’s teacher for strategies to help her manage anxiety and frustration, and I FaceTime my youngest’s teacher for tips on keeping her engaged despite her speech and language challenges.
Needless to say, this has been a significant challenge. Our schedules and routines have been disrupted, and our kids struggle to understand why their world has changed. We’ve faced frustrations and tears, and I’ve certainly had moments where I wanted to throw in the towel.
Homeschooling three kids with varied needs while trying to maintain their routines in a play-oriented space has been exceptionally tough. Although I’ve always advocated for my children’s educational needs, I never considered how those would be adequately met at home. Here are some strategies that have been helpful for us:
Understand the IEP/504 Plans
I’m familiar with my kids’ IEPs and 504s, but I revisited the details during this time. Knowing the specifics allows me to implement accommodations at home and discuss any necessary adjustments with their teachers.
Gather Essential Supplies
Every child needs the right tools for success, especially those with special needs. Items like headphones, fidget toys, timers, and visual schedules have been invaluable in keeping my kids engaged. For instance, headphones help minimize distractions, while timers aid my ADHD child in staying focused.
Establish a Schedule
Creating a structured daily schedule has proven crucial. We list activities and assignments on a whiteboard in a central spot, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Discussing expectations helps kids know what to anticipate throughout the day.
Set Time Limits
It’s important not to make kids sit for hours on end trying to finish assignments. Setting time limits can help them understand how long they have to complete tasks, allowing for more effective time management.
Involve Kids in Planning
Giving my kids a say in their daily activities encourages ownership and responsibility. They can choose the order of their assignments, fostering independence and critical thinking skills.
Be Supportive but Allow Independence
While we support our children, we also need to step back. It’s impossible to be right beside them all the time, especially when working from home. We encourage them to try their best while providing modifications for more challenging tasks.
Reach Out for Assistance
Our teachers have been incredibly supportive. I don’t hesitate to ask for help if assignments seem too daunting. For instance, I’ve arranged Zoom sessions for my daughter to receive one-on-one support.
Give Them Space
Letting kids choose where they work in the house can foster a comfortable learning environment. My son prefers the dining room table, while my youngest moves between different rooms.
Encourage Their Interests
Now is a fantastic time to integrate my kids’ passions into their learning. Whether it’s baking, gardening, or drawing, we use these interests to make the curriculum more engaging.
Let Go of Expectations
Lastly, it’s essential to release rigid expectations. This journey is new for all of us, and it’s important to adapt and find what works best.
For more ideas on navigating this journey, check out this post on engaging with your children’s interests at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, if you’re looking for expert advice on fertility journeys, visit Make a Mom for valuable resources. Another excellent source for pregnancy and home insemination information is IVF Babble.
In summary, homeschooling children with IEPs and 504s is no easy task, but with the right strategies and support, it can be manageable. Understanding their needs, creating a structured environment, and encouraging independence can make a significant difference in their learning experience.
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