Life Beyond Homeschooling

No, I am not retiring from our homeschooling lifestyle as of yet.  We will continue this homeschooling journey until I know in my heart that we need to seek a new direction.  Reagan is in a prime learning period.  She is picking much up at a rapid pace so we will continue on learning together.

I am encouraged (but not surprised) by studies that show that cognitive skills continue to develop with increasing age in individuals with Down syndrome and, in fact, they may be more developmentally ready to learn when they reach young adulthood.  (Down Syndrome Across the Lifespan, Chapter 7)

So, for right now, we will continue on this path.

Sometimes, my mind travels beyond homeschooling.  I have so loved this period in my life.  What will I do when I do retire?

What will I do with that big hole in my heart left by the passion of living and learning with my girls?

I must admit to some trepidation when my thoughts move to the future.  But not to fear. 

New, strange, exciting things are coming into my life.  For most of my life, I did not believe I had an artsy bone in my body. 

Now, I am driven to write.  In the past, I have written many informational kind of pieces.  I have written much about my passion for homeschooling children with down syndrome.  My free e-book Homeschooling Children with Down Syndrome has been read by over 16,000 people in the various places it is available.

So very grateful for the journey!

I have written many pieces for our regional homeschooling association creating awareness for those of us homeschooling children with special needs.  It has worked.  For the first time in a long time, we will have workshops at our local convention targeting those of us homeschooling children with significant special needs.

Now, I am driven to write stuff that is kind of off the wall for me - creative writing and something akin to poetry.

Now, I am obsessed with my camera and photos - some of which I share here.

All I know is I must create.

I know my work isn't all that good but a new phase has begun and a new path is forming!

Seeking beauty and spreading hope have become my passion.   Perhaps it always has been but now I am driven in a different way.

I want people to know that hope and healing are inevitable.  No matter what the crisis you face - God waits for you to bring Him your heart and soul, your tears and your pain - to give it all to Him.  He will create something new and beautiful of all that we endure here on earth.

I know God is at work in me.  As I transition into a walk on a different path, I find I am not lost but only finding a new direction.

And I find that exciting!

Finding Joy in the Journey...

....when we find ourselves in the desert - times where we experience physical, emotional and/or spiritual dryness.

It is common this time of year to find  homeschool burnout rampant.  Grey skies, inclement weather, deep questions as to how we are fulfilling God's will and the call to homeschool all contribute.

The role we have raising children and homeschooling may come to seem a drudgery at times.  A veil lowers over our hearts and we see little joy in our days.

I know - I've been there, done that.  I've been formally homeschooling for 18 years...

It is not all a bed of roses.

I want to assure you that the joy remains but perhaps muted by our state of mind and heart.  It takes effort for our eyes to see and our hearts to move.

It is an effort worth making!

For the sake of our loved ones, I want to encourage you in the little things which will lead to the big things.  The joy is there waiting for eyes that see and hearts uplifted!


Baby steps, my friends!

A grateful heart

Start the day counting your blessings.  At first it may take some practice if it is not your nature as your body wakes but an invaluable exercise in seeking joy.  I've face some devastating events in my life and I will say I had to "practice" much but that practice lead me to where I am today.

I wake up these days gleeful and grateful that I have another day with my family to seek God's will and live in His grace and mercy.

Pray

Keep the communication open between you and the Lord.  He knows your heart and wants what is best for you and your family.  He is your strength in weakness.

Keep your Bible close

Everything you need to know for the journey is there!  Memorize verses that keep you focused on the Lord and the goal you have set for your family.  My favorite verse this time of year is:

 ^"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."  Philipians 4:8

You've been called to homeschool your children - this verse says it all about the call, the beauty of  living in the call and God's will for your family. 

Include your spouse

Share your journey with all its ups and downs.  Pray together.  Seek strength together.  You were both called to this lifestyle - be there for one another.  


Go through the motions

Keep the structure of your days.  There is comfort in structure.

A counselor once told me to "act as if" and the feelings with follow.  There is so much truth to this!  Mothers are often called to "act" beyond what our human nature has to offer.  At times, we are weary,  patience tested, sleep deprived and yet we continue to respond lovingly to the little ones looking to us for care and nurturing. 

Sometimes we just need to put on a smile on as we greet the day and so very often the feelings will follow.

Take a break

Sometimes, a short break is needed for a hard working, homeschooling mom's spiritual and mental health.  We school year-round so that we can take breaks as necessary.

Time filled with escaping from the routine can be conducive to improving your quality of life when in the throes of burnout.  Sometimes a cup of hot tea and ten minutes uninterrupted will do and, at times, a day or two (or perhaps more) will help you get a better perspective.

Devotionals

I keep a variety of devotionals close at hand for encouragement.  I have two favorites right now.

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young has very short entries for a busy homeschooling mom.  From today's entry:

"I am ever so near you...Let Me be your positive focus.  when you look to Me, knowing Me as God with you, you experience Joy."

Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman.  A book for those of us who tend to spend more time in the desert - especially those of us who homeschool children with special needs.  From the book cover:

"Filled with insight into the richness of God's provision and the purpose of His plan, this enduring classic has encouraged and inspired generations of Christians.

From today's entry in regard to those who struggle:

"Your heavenly Father knows.  (Matthew 6:32)"

"Yes, Father, for this was your pleasure (Matthew 11:26)

 to "claim  an eternal truth upon which the most mature believer, and even the youngest child of God, may securely rest - the truth that God is your Father."

...a loving Father who knows and seeks only good for you...

Journal

Busy homeschooling moms may not have time to journal but expressing your thoughts and feelings in a journal but it is one I highly recommend.  Having a place to give to expression to your joys and trials is so helpful.  Sometimes we need a very safe place to  do some soul searching, let go of our burdens, work out our feelings, make forward progress in things that tug at our hearts and minds.

My only advice is to keep God in your journaling so it may be free of things that may be toxic to your heart and soul.

Seek spiritual direction

Your spiritual health is important!  When one feels they have been in a place of spiritual dryness for way too long and finding it is affecting our relationships, we might consider looking for specialized help.  Sometimes we need to seek some clarity in the form of a spiritual director/mentor or  a pastor.

Good friends

God intends us to live in community with others.  Hopefully, we have a community with others traveling a similar journey.  Reach out and share your burdens and your joys.  What a blessing friends can be!

So, my friends, be encouraged today.  The joy is there.  Take those baby steps to lift the veil that hides it from you.

A Homeschooling Mom's Heart

I’ve been on this road less traveled for a long time now.  It has been a beautiful journey.  A journey made beautiful because of those I share it with – my children. 

I’ve learned much on the way.  I’ve learned much about the typical and the not quite so typical homeschooling journey.  I’ve learned much about myself too.

Here is the secret of my heart…there is nothing special about me.

Others comment that it must be so because they couldn’t do it.

I wasn’t born to do this.  God called me to it.  He shaped me for the journey as I traveled along the path.  There were many forks along the way and mountains to climb.  Many times I was tired – too tired to go on.  

In obedience, I marched on.

I spent much time in the desert.  There were dry, arid times where I wondered if I’d taken the right path. 

My resolve only grew and I continued on.

I discovered the further I traveled, the easier it became.  The mountains faded away and the forks fewer.  The desert became an oasis.  The landscape was lush and the views magnificent.  A delightful fragrance filled the air.  My efforts began to bear fruit with the sweetest nectar I’ve ever known.

This journey was never about me but the fruits of my labor. 

Considering Homeschooling Your Child with Special Needs?

Parents begin considering homeschooling their child with special needs via a variety of paths.  

Many have homeschooled their children from the beginning.  They seem to be born with a homeschooling heart.

Some are called to it because of their child with special needs.  They understand that the system cannot effectively deal with their child’s special needs to ensure the child learns and grows into the best he/she can be.

Some begin because of difficulties with the school system.  They may be disappointed in their child’s progress.   Some even remove their children emergently because the situation is intolerable for their child.

I’ve listened to them all as they open their hearts and share their stories.  There is one common thread which runs through every parent’s mind as they consider the options.

Anxiety

The discernment period is a time filled with anxiety.  They worry if they can take on such an immense responsibility and do it well.  Even the veteran homeschooling mom experiences anxiety and doubt!

And it is normal.

We all want what is best for our children.  We, more than any system, care about our child’s outcome and will work harder to overcome challenges our children face.  

We all want what is best for our family.  We must consider how the decision to homeschool our child with special needs will affect our other children and spouse. Most homeschooling families naturally incorporate the child with special needs but some don't.  They fear that they cannot meet their child's special educational and/or therapeutic needs.  They worry that homeschooling their child with special needs may affect the education of their typical children.  There may be concerns that the perceived extra burden they are considering may cause increased marital stress. 

The discernment period is a time of prayer. 

We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide us as we do the research needed to make an informed decision.  We need to know as much as possible about our child’s diagnosis and how it affects growth and development – and overall learning.

We pray for others to walk alongside us - listen and share their knowledge and wisdom.  Fortunately, as the number of those  homeschooling their children  has grown, so has the number of those homeschooling children with special needs.  The support is there whether it be local or via the internet.  You will find others to work alongside you during the discernment period.

You might meet some of those people who I know as encouragers and friends.  Most I will never meet in real life but I consider them life-long friends.  We have walked with each other, celebrated with each other and cried together.

What you will learn

In the discernment period, you will come to know that you will be your child’s best teacher.  You know him/her better than anyone else. You have been his/her teacher from birth.  Homeschooling is a natural extension of parenting.

You will learn that homeschooling will not cure your child.  Homeschooling can provide a more optimal learning environment – one in which the child is safe, is encouraged and loved - learns and grows to be the best he or she can be.  In cases of significant challenges, this can be of utmost importance.

You will learn that homeschooling is not the easiest option though some might consider it to be so.  No more IEPs, BIPs, no more struggles to fight for services…

It is a lifestyle that requires perseverance and fortitude. It will challenge and grow you.  It is not for the weak of heart.  There will be tough days.  There may be tough seasons – but isn’t it so as we educate our typically developing children?

As you begin

Your anxiety dissipates.

You will find this path brings great rewards and untold amounts of joy.  There is nothing more rewarding than watching your child  overcome challenges as they master a new task or incorporate a difficult concept.

You learn what it means to walk by faith, not by sight, trusting the Lord will provide!

As I look at my sunset years as a homeschooling mom, I know the path we chose was right for us, good for our children, and the best choice for Reagan - our daughter with Down syndrome.  I have been blessed beyond my dreams by our homeschooling adventure.  I can see how God called me to this, the road less traveled, and then answered prayers as He guided us to fulfill His will for our family.

If He leads us to the road less traveled as a homeschooling family, He will guide us through it and we glorify Him in the process.

I am in awe of what He has accomplished in our family – especially in me.

From Homeschool to College

This past fall our oldest homeschooled through high school daughter, Kiera, left for college. The process of picking schools, the application, getting a transcript together, visiting schools, the interview, and making a decision were the easiest part of transitioning to college. So many parents fear this process. I know I entered it with great trepidation.

The Fear Factor

Parents fear their transcripts won't meet the standards that government schools generate electronically. We found this process quite easy. We listed the classes our daughter took, her grades and generated a GPA for the semester and school year. A transcript accepted by every school to which she applied without question.

Parents fear their child won't be accepted to college or can't compete with those educated within the system - because they are homeschooled. Colleges covet the homeschooled applicant. Homeschooled students score higher on standardized testing (including the ACT), have higher GPAs and higher graduation rates. Read more here. Colleges and universities want students who succeed and make them look good!

They fear the interview process. We found that what is commonly feared as the school interviewing the high school graduate is actually the school wooing the prospective student.

FAFSA. Haven't we all heard horror stories about how hard it is to fill out the form to qualify for federal grants. It is apparently much easier to file the form these days. It only took hubby 30 minutes to complete and submit the form.

Parents fear the cost. College is expensive. Student loans take a long time to pay off and can be burdensome to the student and parents. Scholarships were an important factor in our choice of schools. We also learned that with a little support from scholarships offered by the schools that private schools were competitive with state funded schools.


Deciding on a college or university


Get started early! I had been collecting information about schools for years. We considered:

Our daughter's interests and academic path for her chosen field of study
The size of the school
Credentials of the professors
The professor - student ratio
Whether or not teaching assistants were used.
Graduation rate
Student supports
Extracurricular activities
Opportunities on and off campus for a well-rounded education
Cost
Religious affiliation
Distance


I polled many on their thoughts about different schools. I listened to many offer their opinions on the best schools for our daughter's career path. I also asked about religious affiliation - whether the school was only loosely affiliated or whether the school took seriously their role in forming Christian disciples.

I used the internet extensively. I checked mission statements. I looked at what each school had to offer as far as course of study. I looked at forums discussing schools. I plugged in key words that were important to us and did extensive research to narrow down our options. I ruled out many schools in this manner.

I even read many advertisements in the journals/magazines we subscribe to - journals with which we hold common beliefs. I did not rule out any resource.

We visited schools which we were interested in

To our surprise we were being recruited. We did not have to sell our child to anybody! They worked very hard to impress us with what they had to offer! We found out many things that the schools were not advertising just by listening and reading posters tacked to bulletin boards. Things and ideas that ruled out the school. Be very alert when doing college visits.

The Decision

The process which narrowed down our choices for schools was not really difficult. We took our time to discern which school would fit Kiera's needs and career path. We visited some great schools and had good experiences. After narrowing our field down from ten schools to two, and satisfying all of our criteria, it came down to distance. One school was a couple of hundred miles away and the other was more than a thousand miles from home. She ended up choosing the school closest to her family. Family support is important to the college student!

The process of finding the right school and jumping through all the hoops was the easiest part of transitioning from homeschool to college. The changes to our daily lives were more difficult. I'll just say my college student is doing better than her family. Oh, we are all adjusting but when I think back on that cute little baby and the young woman she has grown up to be, I can't help but want more of her!

Uninspired - AKA Homeschool Burnout

A repost from 2010 because it is that time of year...

A place I know very well. Late January and February bring me to this place where I feel totally uninspired – also known as burnout. I know I’m not alone. Many homeschooling moms experience a sense of burnout this time of year.

What is homeschool burnout?

Perhaps life is not quite so enjoyable. In fact, you might find all your emotions rather muted. Irritability is common. Also feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, discouraged or possibly even depressed. Symptoms will vary with each individual. The key is to be aware of the likelihood of its occurrence before it impacts the family and your homeschool.

What contributes to this sense of burnout?

For us northerners who face shorter, cloudy days, bitter cold, ice and snow, the weather plays a big part in our feelings of isolation from others. It is just a reality that social gatherings and field trips decrease because of the weather.

We’ve got half of the school year under our belts. Most of the homeschooling moms I know see this time as a time that we question what we have chosen to do with our children. We question our goals and the effectiveness our role as homeschooling mothers. We question the effectiveness of our choices. We ask ourselves questions and ruminate beyond the necessary and useful point. Are we doing enough? Are we meeting our goals? Do we need to make changes?

Most homeschooling mothers have high expectations for themselves. They often find there is never enough time in the day for all they want to accomplish – with school, parenting, discipline, laundry, cooking, cleaning etc. Homeschooling is a very task-oriented lifestyle lending itself to burnout.

Homeschooling Children with Special Needs

Taking the responsibility for homeschooling a child with special needs may intensify our feelings of burnout. After all, this is a huge responsibility – our efforts will impact our child's future functional competence. We don’t have a system to rely on or blame.

We often find ourselves comparing out children with others with a similar diagnosis in our own community whether it be in our homeschooling community or perhaps even a child in the school system. Are they doing better? Did I make the right choice? Would my child be better off in the system with all its supports?

Burnout - What can we do?

Burnout is a nasty place to be. The remedies:

1. Anticipate burnout.

Burnout is common in homeschooling moms. Anticipate it and you’ve almost won the battle!

2. Take a good look at your priorities.

Be sure that you are in fact keeping them in the right order.
-Am I spending enough time with God in prayer and with His Word?
-Am I giving enough time to my husband? In giving you will receive.
-Are my children’s basic and educational needs being met?

3. After reassessing priorities, choose carefully where you get involved outside the home.

It is common for others to think just because you homeschool you are available to meet their needs and the needs of the community during school hours. Practice saying no or I'm sorry I just can't do it -- without explanations.

4. Quit second guessing God.

Most of us who are called to homeschool are led there by a loving Father. If He leads us here, He will provide all that we need to accomplish His goals for us and our family.

5. Remember why you homeschool.

Keep your goals for your children close and in the proper perspective. Are you homeschooling to instill proper morals and values? Are you homeschooling because you believe you and your family are contributing to the need for more strong soldiers for Christ? Do you think you can provide a better education for your children than the system can provide? Do you have a child with special needs who thrives in your homeschool environment? Worthy goals - keep your eye on the prize! I've graduated one well-rounded young lady who, with her natural gifts, will contribute greatly where ever she is planted. It was worth every second!

6. Take good care of you.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to take care of yourself. Eat right, exercise and get proper sleep. Your world will be a better place.

7. Don’t compare your children

Don't compare them with each other, family members or those in the community - especially if they have special needs. This is probably one of THE most destructive thing any parent can do. Compare them only to themselves. Are they working towards goals that are reasonable and obtainable? Are they making progress? Sometimes it is essential to look at the baby steps they might be taking toward a long sought after goal to find success. Find it and celebrate it!

8. Work at changing your thought patterns.

-If you are often finding yourself discouraged and down, try to focus on your blessings. Are you children healthy, clean, fed – physically, emotionally spiritually ready for learning? If that is the case, then learning will occur. They may not learn all that is on your agenda for the day but they will be open to the experiences and opportunities provided.
-Wake up with a thankful heart. Thank God for the opportunities that He will place before you as the day unfolds.
-Pray for your children and ask God to bless your day together.
-Thank God for them and the joy they bring – even when they are bickering.
-Verbalize all you find in the day to be thankful for. Soon you will find your children doing the same and the joy is multiplied!

9. Learn to live with dust bunnies.

One of the hardest things for me as a homeschooling mom was letting go of my need for a clean, tidy house all the time. I am a recovering neat freak. I am a recovering neat freak living with people who don’t see what the fuss is about. They are right of course.

10. Schedule flexibility.

That's right - if you are the obsessive-compulsive type like me who has a daily schedule, put a little flexibility in your schedule. Leave time for spontaneity and discover the joys!

11. Delight in the little things.

A cup of hot tea or hot chocolate with instructions that mama is taking a few minutes of time out and take it. My homeschooling friend, Amy, puts on her red tennis shoes every morning because they bring her a sense of delight – every day.

12. Make time for the things you enjoy and that refresh you.

Whether it be a good book or a hobby - do it.

13. Make a list of things to look forward to

-Schedule a date night with hubby – even if it has to be in your own home.
-How about a game night with the kids?
-An occasional mom’s night out with friends. Real life friends are important.
-A special dinner once a week with all your favorite foods.

14. Make a list of projects to take on.

I usually have a winter project because we spend more time at home. Even if it is just a closet or a few drawers, it is something outside the daily routine. It makes me feel productive in a different way. Involve the kids and it will be more fun! I don’t know if the kids will find my winter project fun – stripping the kitchen wall paper – but you never know.

15. Explore curriculum choices.

Most of us have homeschooling conventions on the horizon. Take the time to get excited about next year, investigate new options/curriculum choices and make plans on where you want to spend your time in the vendor hall.

16. Seek out the homeschooling community on the internet for support.

There are so many wonderful places to find support on the internet - way to many to list but you might try The Swap, The Homeschool Lounge, Heart of the Matter Online, The Homeschool Village, or the The Christian Homeschool Hub when you can't meet with your local homeschoolers for support and fellowship. I doubt you can find a homeschooler that has not experienced burnout. Let others share their ideas to get through this season.


Alas, I’m feeling inspired once again. I'm off to work through the list!

Homeschooling through High School

So many parents feel unqualified and uncertain about homeschooling their children through high school. They will often put their children into the system to feel more satisfied that their children are well-prepared for college, to have an official transcript and an official diploma. Many parents put their children into the system for sports opportunities. Some put their children into the system for life’s lessons to be learned in a group setting – such as learning to deal with peer pressure, getting along with same-age peers, or “real” classroom experience.

Parents do what they feel is best for their child and their family. I have a tremendous respect for those decisions. Parenting is the most difficult job I've known and I have had some very difficult jobs. Saving lives in the ER as a nurse has nothing on raising up children!

To encourage those who have discerned for their child and family that keeping their child home for high school is what is best for them, I thought I would share our daughter’s experience.

There is hardly a week that passes that my homeschooled through high school graduate, Kiera, doesn’t thank me for keeping her home for her K-12 education. She supplies me with so many reasons why she is grateful...I find myself grateful too.

Good, quality education. Kiera feels she got a great education from a Christian perspective. It is quite apparent, now that she is in college, that she was well-prepared for college. She did well on the college entrance exam. She is making the Dean’s list at school which says so much about how well she was prepared.

Life-long love of learning. Kiera still loves to learn. As she was finishing our homeschool high school, she took a few courses at our local community college. What struck her most there about the environment and students was the apathy apparent everywhere. No one was excited about what was being offered to them. They sat there like rocks without contributing or asking questions.

Kiera is excited about the world of academics and all the opportunities that come with the college environment. Her professors enjoy her because she is curious and contributes in the classroom. This young adult learns and has fun!

Self-discipline. As soon as Kiera reached the stage of reading to learn (about 4th grade if I remember right) she began to assume more responsibility for her education. By the time she got to the high school years, my role had greatly diminished. Now in college, she has all the responsibility and is handling it well.

Organization and focus. Her room is a mess but her schedule is not. She maps out her week – what needs to be read, written and studied for and sticks to the schedule. A life skill that is invaluable and learned as a lifestyle at home. Kiera is greatly focused on her goals and the path she must take to reach them

Self-actualization. In the system, children spend most of their primary and secondary education doing what others tell them to do and be. Kiera knows who she is and what she is capable of doing. She delights in being a child of God, seeking His will in her life and being obedient to Him.

Family. Kiera feels so blessed to have so much family time. Not only with her immediate family but with extended family as well. Our homeschooling lifestyle lends itself to building and staying close with those who live far away. If she had been required to stick to a structured school year, she would hardly know her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. She knows a depth of family experience that few know today because of the nature of our mobile society.

Social Skills. Homeschooled children are well-known for their ability to talk to people of all ages – not just individuals their own age. This ability has taken Kiera to many places she would not know otherwise and relationships that have been quite valuable throughout her life would not have been accessible without her wonderful social skills.

Life Skills. Kiera is very pleased with her ability to cook, clean, care for her sibling etc. I think when it is time for her to manage her own home, she will be able to function quite well.

Time and balance. As a homeschooled student, Kiera began her day at 6:00-6:30 a.m. and finished was finished with her daily work before noon. There was no homework that went unfinished before she finished her daily work. The rest of her day was hers to do with as she pleased. Time filled with contributions to our home and family life, volunteer work, books, creative writing, hobbies and friends. There were no long evenings laboring over school work. She learned to structure her work time as well as her free time. She has been given a model that will lead to a healthy, balanced, enjoyable lifestyle as an adult and to pattern her own family’s lifestyle after when the time comes.

Well-rounded person with a wide variety of interests. Because of our homeschooling lifestyle, Kiera has had the time to explore a wide variety of interests leading to a well-rounded individual. Her interests have not been influenced by the popular culture but are what she has truly finds interesting. We have had many opportunities, because of the nature of homeschooling, to travel and explore the world – experiences she may have not known if we had to stick to a structured school year.

If you are called to keep your child at home through high school, there is no need to fear. If God leads you there, He will provide what you need to get the job done to fulfill His will for your child and family. A leap of faith for many, but many are the positive outcomes.

You may wonder if Kiera wants to homeschool her own children when the time comes. I think that is the ultimate question that displays how the individual views their own homeschooling experience.

Feel free to ask her. I must say, it is so good to know that my investment in this child has been received with such a grateful heart.

My Sabbatical from Blogging...

Is it over? How do you return from 9 months without making a post with significant content? I guess you just jump right in...

I think putting together my ebook, Homeschooling Children with Down Syndrome met a personal goal of mine - to share what I have learned on this journey. It has been my ministry for over a decade to share and mentor others on a similar path. I know there is much more to come on this journey. More that isn't shared freely in the blogosphere. There are very few bloggers with teens or adults with Down syndrome sharing their journeys.

Over the last 9 months we have traveled extensively and met many wonderful people. Reagan has a way of attracting the most incredible people into our lives. She exudes an unconditional love for others - she blesses and we are all blessed. She has matured so much in the last year. She is quite independent and even a little sassy. I have to say her adolescence has been fairly easy but then both of my girls have been easy as far as our relationships go. The closeness we enjoy as a homeschooling family and the mutual respect for each other made what are usually difficult times in a family just an age and a stage.

In the fall, my oldest left for college. Kiera is attending a small Christian school near Chicago as a biology major. She has adjusted quite well to life at college - even made the Dean's list! I am so proud of this young lady! Homeschooled through high school and a success in the competitive world of college!

Reagan misses her sister dearly. As hard as it is for me to let go, it has been much more difficult for Reagan. The tears still flow freely and frequently - she knows things will never be the same...

Our local homeschooling children with special needs support group. Special Needs, Unique Challenges, has become more active. We have been trying to meet monthly for a mom's night out this school year. The weather has interfered greatly this winter though. We have had the snowiest winter I can recall!

We are serving two small rural churches. Our parish families have blessed us immensely. Until now, I had not known a parish family so united in their love for the Lord that it is almost palpable. The serve the Lord and each other...and love my family. Here, we do not just go to church - we belong. If you have a child with special needs, you know how rare this is!

We have a new Bishop with exciting plans for the future. While our buildings and property are being threatened with lawsuits from The Episcopal Church, our Bishop has a vision for our future. A future where buildings and property are only things. The mission of the church will continue on without those things if necessary.

I have been named Diocesan Coordinator for those with special needs. A coordinator grows ministry within our Diocese. I am busy at work trying to define this new ministry and set goals for our team. It is a very exciting time for me. At times, anxiety creeps in. Am I the right person for this job? Do I have the skills to grow this ministry? Do I have the time and energy? But then I remember - God doesn't call the equipped, He equips those who are called!

Reagan will have surgery soon. She will have a new pacemaker put in. This pacemaker will pace both her ventricles - an added safety measure since she has no underlying heart rhythm. Complete heart block was a complication from her original open heart surgery, repair of AVSD, as an infant.

A brief update on a snowy day. My life is much fuller than I can describe in this space. Blizzard warning here - expecting 20 inches of snow with white-out conditions. I don't expect to be plowed out until Friday. Really. And I don't mind. I have a well-stocked pantry and freezer. The generator has had a recent tune-up. I have a pile of books waiting for me along with a nice warm blanket.

So, let the snow fall and the wind blow. I'm going to enjoy this day!

Giveaways at Barbara Frank Online

My friend Barbara, over at Barbara Frank Online, is having a series of giveaways. Barbara and her husband have just republished a book called An 1890 Kindergarten Story Curriculum - The original author, a teacher, organized it into a school-year’s worth (September to June) of stories and object lessons for young children.

Barbara is a fellow homeschooling mom and author who also has a child with Down syndrome.

Ending tonight is a great book giveaway, How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. Leave her a comment to win!

The next giveaway is How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie - another great read!

Please stop by Barbara's blog to enter!

Oh, and sign up for her free monthly newsletter while you're there!

The Homeschooling Community and Supporting Homeschoolers with Children with Special Needs

Matthew 25: 31-46

In every homeschooling community you will find homeschoolers educating children with special needs. You may not see a lot of them but they do exist.

Why don’t you see them?

They may not be comfortable bringing their child with special needs to events and gatherings due to social, behavioral and/or physical issues.

They may be using all their available energy to meet the needs of their family and their child with special needs.

They may not feel their children are accepted as fully participating members of the community.

Does the homeschooling community have a responsibility to nurture and support those homeschooling children with special needs?

The homeschooling community is primarily made up of Christian families. Jesus welcomed – even healed - many people with special needs. He gave them His time and attention. Why should the Christian homeschooling community be any different?

Many of these families are already a part of the homeschooling community. Their children with special needs should be welcomed into the community as every other child is welcomed.

Individuals with special needs are an often marginalized segment of society. They are often excluded because they look and/or act differently. Much of society doesn’t value those with significant needs and/or cognitive challenges. In fact, many with known genetic syndromes are aborted in utero. Babies created in Him image disposed of as useless tissue!

Let the homeschooling community be different. Embrace those with special needs and their families as Jesus would!

What you, as an individual, can do:

In every homeschooling community you will find many who would love to support those homeschooling children with special needs but aren’t sure what they can do.

1. Acknowledge we are dealing with more than the typical homeschooling family.

We acknowledge that every child is special but we do deal with challenges beyond the typical family which impact our lives, our marriages, our typically developing children and our relationships in the community. Often times, we work endlessly to find ways to meet the needs of our child with special needs and spend many more hours per day meeting that child’s needs to helping him/her reach beyond their challenges.

2. Keep a mental list of those you meet in the homeschooling community with children with special needs.

When you meet someone who homeschools a child with special needs, ask them if they know so and so who also homeschools a child with special needs. Those relationships can provide invaluable support.

3. Do not be afraid to approach the family.

Many people just don’t know what to say or do. Let us lead the way for you. As you get to know the family, you will probably be surprised by the blessings they know as a parent of a child with special needs.

You will discover that our lives are more than our child's diagnosis. We, as a family, are just like your family. Beyond the challenges we face, are the same dreams and hopes for our children...and we share many of the same problems.

4. Don't be afraid to inquire about the child’s special needs.

Most families are quite willing to share – they live with those special needs day in and day out.

5. Do not be afraid of the child with special needs.

They may look different or act differently but they are always children first. The nonverbal child will appreciate a smile, a light touch and friendly conversation – just like every other child. Some children will have ‘invisible’ special needs and are also in need of your support and understanding.

6. Educate your children about our special blessings and encourage friendships.

It is important for children with special needs to have friendships with typically developing children. Children with special needs learn a great deal from peer relationships. There peers will learn a great deal about befriending those who really are more like them than different and valuing all of God's creation.

7. Include the family openly and lovingly in homeschooling group activities.

Your kindness will be deeply appreciated.

8. Allow us the opportunity to educate your co-op, field trip group, and/or social group on the special needs of our child.

This may help others feel more comfortable with our children. We hope they will be valued for who they are and not their diagnosis…and included as fully as possible.

9. Mentoring opportunities.

Older typically developing children can be of great assistance to the family homeschooling a child with special needs during group activities. Having an older buddy guide them through those activities has many mutual benefits.

10. Do remember the siblings.

At times, people forget about the devoted siblings. Growing up alongside a child with special needs comes with many blessings but sometimes they need to be acknowledged for who they are individually. No one really wants to be known only as the sibling of the child with special needs.

11. Invite the parents out or over for an occasional social activity.

We need to just be grownups sometimes and away from our daily responsibilities.

12. If you are so called, offer respite care on occasion.

An hour or two on occasion will provide refreshment for the overwhelmed parent. Perhaps you have a teen willing to be trained in meeting the family’s needs for a short time. Helping with some light household tasks or entertaining a toddler will be huge for a family dealing with a child with special needs.

13. Do not feel sorry for us.

We don’t need sympathy when, for the most part, we are abundantly blessed! Most often we just need fellowship but there are episodic times of grieving for those raising children with special needs.

14. Empathy is genuinely needed at times.

Offer your ear and an open heart when we do struggle. Sometimes we just might need someone to listen. Even if you can’t truly understand, a compassionate heart might be all that is needed.

15. Pray for our families as you feel led.

We all need prayer but we might have different specific needs.

What can the greater homeschooling community do?

This needs to be a ministry to an often marginalized group of families. A little extra effort to support our families will go a long way.

Don’t expect those homeschooling children with special needs to have the time and energy to give to the greater community on a regular basis. They are too often overwhelmed by what they have been called to do – especially in the early years where they are dealing with their child’s diagnosis, seeking answers to why their child isn’t developing typically, frequent visits to physicians and/or therapists, dealing with behavioral challenges and meeting the needs of the rest of their family. This is the time when support is needed most.

Some other suggestions:

• Acknowledge that families homeschooling children with special needs exist – then ask how you can support them.
• Have special needs resources in your local homeschooling library or keep of list of print resources for referral.
• Have links to special needs resources on the internet on your homeschooling association’s website.
• Also include links to local, state and national support groups for those homeschooling children with special needs..
• Seek out those who homeschool children with special needs as mentors for those inquiring about homeschooling their child with special needs.
• Print an occasional article about homeschooling children with special needs in your newsletters.
• Think about convention support. There are many speakers available to support the homeschooling and special needs community.
  

I promise you will be blessed in giving a little or a lot. When you reflect God’s love for all of His creation – especially those with special needs – you will discover a heart more inclined to love as Jesus calls us to love. Bless and be blessed!

Uninspiried - AKA Homeschool Burnout

A place I know very well. Late January and February bring me to this place where I feel totally uninspired – also known as burnout. I know I’m not alone. Many homeschooling moms experience a sense of burnout this time of year.

What is homeschool burnout?

Perhaps life is not quite so enjoyable. In fact, you might find all your emotions rather muted. Irritability is common. Also feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, discouraged or possibly even depressed. Symptoms will vary with each individual. The key is to be aware of the likelihood of its occurrence before it impacts the family and your homeschool.

What contributes to this sense of burnout?
For us northerners who face shorter, cloudy days, bitter cold, ice and snow, the weather plays a big part in our feelings of isolation from others. It is just a reality that social gatherings and field trips decrease because of the weather.

We’ve got half of the school year under our belts. Most of the homeschooling moms I know see this time as a time that we question what we have chosen to do with our children. We question our goals and the effectiveness our role as homeschooling mothers. We question the effectiveness of our choices. We ask ourselves questions and ruminate beyond the necessary and useful point. Are we doing enough? Are we meeting our goals? Do we need to make changes?

Most homeschooling mothers have high expectations for themselves. They often find there is never enough time in the day for all they want to accomplish – with school, parenting, discipline, laundry, cooking, cleaning etc. Homeschooling is a very task-oriented lifestyle lending itself to burnout.

Homeschooling Children with Special Needs

Taking the responsibility for homeschooling a child with special needs may intensify our feelings of burnout. After all, this is a huge responsibility – our efforts will impact our child's future functional competence. We don’t have a system to rely on or blame.

We often find ourselves comparing out children with others with a similar diagnosis in our own community whether it be in our homeschooling community or perhaps even a child in the school system. Are they doing better? Did I make the right choice? Would my child be better off in the system with all its supports?

Burnout - What can we do?

Burnout is a nasty place to be. The remedies:

1. Anticipate burnout.

Burnout is common in homeschooling moms. Anticipate it and you’ve almost won the battle!

2. Take a good look at your priorities.

Be sure that you are in fact keeping them in the right order.
-Am I spending enough time with God in prayer and with His Word?
-Am I giving enough time to my husband? In giving you will receive.
-Are my children’s basic and educational needs being met?

3. After reassessing priorities, choose carefully where you get involved outside the home.

It is common for others to think just because you homeschool you are available to meet their needs and the needs of the community during school hours. Practice saying no or I'm sorry I just can't do it -- without explanations.

4. Quit second guessing God.

Most of us who are called to homeschool are led there by a loving Father. If He leads us here, He will provide all that we need to accomplish His goals for us and our family.

5. Remember why you homeschool.

Keep your goals for your children close and in the proper perspective. Are you homeschooling to instill proper morals and values? Are you homeschooling because you believe you and your family are contributing to the need for more strong soldiers for Christ? Do you think you can provide a better education for your children than the system can provide? Do you have a child with special needs who thrives in your homeschool environment? Worthy goals - keep your eye on the prize! I've graduated one well-rounded young lady who, with her natural gifts, will contribute greatly where ever she is planted. It was worth every second!

6. Take good care of you.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to take care of yourself. Eat right, exercise and get proper sleep. Your world will be a better place.

7. Don’t compare your children

Don't compare them with each other, family members or those in the community - especially if they have special needs. This is probably one of THE most destructive thing any parent can do. Compare them only to themselves. Are they working towards goals that are reasonable and obtainable? Are they making progress? Sometimes it is essential to look at the baby steps they might be taking toward a long sought after goal to find success. Find it and celebrate it!

8. Work at changing your thought patterns.

-If you are often finding yourself discouraged and down, try to focus on your blessings. Are you children healthy, clean, fed – physically, emotionally spiritually ready for learning? If that is the case, then learning will occur. They may not learn all that is on your agenda for the day but they will be open to the experiences and opportunities provided.
-Wake up with a thankful heart. Thank God for the opportunities that He will place before you as the day unfolds.
-Pray for your children and ask God to bless your day together.
-Thank God for them and the joy they bring – even when they are bickering.
-Verbalize all you find in the day to be thankful for. Soon you will find your children doing the same and the joy is multiplied!

9. Learn to live with dust bunnies.

One of the hardest things for me as a homeschooling mom was letting go of my need for a clean, tidy house all the time. I am a recovering neat freak. I am a recovering neat freak living with people who don’t see what the fuss is about. They are right of course.

10. Schedule flexibility.

That's right - if you are the obsessive-compulsive type like me who has a daily schedule, put a little flexibility in your schedule. Leave time for spontaneity and discover the joys!

11. Delight in the little things.

A cup of hot tea or hot chocolate with instructions that mama is taking a few minutes of time out and take it. My homeschooling friend, Amy, puts on her red tennis shoes every morning because they bring her a sense of delight – every day.

12. Make time for the things you enjoy and that refresh you.

Whether it be a good book or a hobby - do it.

13. Make a list of things to look forward to

-Schedule a date night with hubby – even if it has to be in your own home.
-How about a game night with the kids?
-An occasional mom’s night out with friends. Real life friends are important.
-A special dinner once a week with all your favorite foods.

14. Make a list of projects to take on.

I usually have a winter project because we spend more time at home. Even if it is just a closet or a few drawers, it is something outside the daily routine. It makes me feel productive in a different way. Involve the kids and it will be more fun! I don’t know if the kids will find my winter project fun – stripping the kitchen wall paper – but you never know.

15. Explore curriculum choices.

Most of us have homeschooling conventions on the horizon. Take the time to get excited about next year, investigate new options/curriculum choices and make plans on where you want to spend your time in the vendor hall.

16. Seek out the homeschooling community on the internet for support.

There are so many wonderful places to find support on the internet - way to many to list but you might try The Swap, The Homeschool Lounge, Heart of the Matter Online when you can't meet with your local homeschoolers for support and fellowship. I doubt you can find a homeschooler that has not experienced burnout. Let others share their ideas to get through this season.


Alas, I’m feeling inspired once again. I'm off to work through the list!

Touchstone, A Journal of Mere Christianity

Over the years, we have received many religious publications by mail. I must say Touchstone, A Journal of Mere Christianity is the best religious journal I have encountered. It comes as a graduation gift from hubby's seminary. The content is meaty, insightful and thought-provoking - from an orthodox viewpoint.

From the inside cover:

"Touchstone is a Christian journal, conservative in doctrine and eclectic in content, with editors and readers from each of the three great divisions of Christendom — Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox. The mission of the journal and its publisher, The Fellowship of St. James, is to provide a place where Christians of various backgrounds can speak with one another on the basis of shared belief in the fundamental doctrines of the faith as revealed in Holy Scripture and summarized in the ancient creeds of the Church."

This month Touchstone had two articles written by homeschooling fathers. Education Normal by Mark T. Mitchell on "the oddity of giving children a moral imagination."

The other article, Except the Lord Build by Anthony Esolen, is the commencement address given by Dr. Esolen to the Rhode Island Christian Home Educators in 2007. As I am looking all to soon send my homeschool graduate off to college, Dr. Esolen's words offer comfort to me.

"For through your labor, and perfecting your labor, the Lord has built the home. Maybe sometimes your T-square had a ding in it, or your level had a bump, or you troweled the mortar on too thin. I am sure that your daughters can think of many incidents to prove that their teachers were indeed human. But I am sure also that on this night they are filled with gratitude, and will not recall those times. Yet those times, too, have been redeemed. If your hand was shaking as it settled in place the next stone of wisdom and understanding, still it was the Lord who guided your hand, and his was the work."

Touchstone also has a blog for those who might be interested - Mere Comments

Check it out - this is one gift subscription we will be renewing!

The Absent Blogger

That would be me! Life has been so very busy that I have little time to sit and write which saddens me but sometimes life just gets in the way!

We have finally started back to school. This is the first summer I have taken off in as long as I can remember. I usually school Reagan (14 y.o. with Down syndrome) year-round. Year-round schooling has helped her dramatically with retention of skills/concepts. This past summer I could just not keep up with much of anything let alone summer schooling with hubby's ordination and the flow of family in and out of our home.

I have to say that I was quite pleased to see very little loss of skills/concepts as a result of our long summer break! I have to admit Reagan is not very motivated to return to our school routine. I'm sure adolescent hormones are a huge factor in her lack of motivation. Hopefully, as we get back to a full schedule, it will once again be just what we do every day. I'd forgotten just how hard it can be to go from summer fun and relaxation to a structured school day as a homeschooling parent. I have reverted back to the time when I did take summers off and slowly introduce each subject back into our day until we are up to full speed.

Kiera (17 y.o) finished her high school course work this past May and will do her senior year of high school at our local community college. So far, she is quite happy with her classes and schedule and is thriving in the classroom setting. It seems to me that homeschooling enabled this child to excel in the classroom with confidence in what she knows, how to display it well in the classroom setting -- with her love for learning intact. The only difficulty she has faced is the perceived apathy she sees in her peers - many just going through the motions on their post high school journey.

We are awaiting the results of her ACT exam scores to begin a serious college search. She tested quite well in the pretests so is not very anxious about the results. This fall we will visit a few schools but she is pretty sure about where she wants to go and they seem anxious to have her!

I'm trying hard to remember every minute enjoy these final months with Kiera at home before she goes off to college. I thought I would feel some relief when she was done with her home education and the dramatic reduction in my work load but I only feel the upcoming loss as she looks toward going off to college. Oh, I'm doing and saying all the right things - I know it is almost time for her to spread her wings and fly. I know I'm not really losing her but things are changing. I just didn't know how difficult this would be. I do my best to focus on what exciting things God has planned for her future but those feelings of impending loss filter in. All I can do is try give them over to the Lord. We can do this together!

Homeschooling and Down Syndrome

We made the decision to homeschool very early in the lives of our children. Once we made the decision to educate our children at home, I read everything I could get my hands on about homeschooling.

As we moved through our homeschooling journey, much of what I learned about homeschooling and Down syndrome (DS) I learned the hard way by working with my daughter. Initially, I didn't have internet access and therefore no access to information on how children with DS learn or even others homeschooling families with children with DS. Professionals were not really helpful because they had little specific knowledge about DS. We even engaged a consultant with a Masters in special education as an educational consultant. He gave us suggestions for curriculum and general information about learning in children with cognitive challenges - and information about academic and developmental skills progression in typically developing children. He also gave me the confidence to homeschool our daughter with special needs but did not have the answers on how to overcome the challenges we faced. It wasn't really the fault of the professionals we worked with - it takes a LONG time for research to trickle down to those working in the field. In fact, with R, I had to unlearn much of what I knew about homeschooling and learn with her, about her & her unique needs. I now have a room (seriously) filled with research into how children with DS learn along with my regular homeschooling stuff!

The fact is children with Down syndrome learn differently. Simply put, they are wired differently. Methods used for typically developing children may eventually work I suppose, but to lessen frustration all around & increase learning potential (and keep motivation high) they need their specific learning profile targeted for success. The learning profile is a list of strengths and weaknesses common to children with DS - different from typically developing children and children with other causes of developmental delays.

Today, there is a great deal of support for families homeschooling children with DS primarily found on the internet. For more information:

Homeschooling and Down Syndrome
A family oriented list.

Home Education and Down Syndrome
A list for committed homeschooling families that focuses on the special learning needs of children with Down syndrome - resources, curriculum, strategies for teaching etc.

Homeschooling Kids with Down Syndrome
A list comprised of only homeschoolers with children with Down syndrome. It is a closed list but I have pull :-)

National Challenged Homeschoolers Associated Network (NATHHAN), a Christian support network for those homeschooling children with special needs, also offers e-mail support for those of us homeschooling children with Ds. Send me an e-mail and I'll give you the contact information.

Of course, I also love to read about the lives of bloggers who homeschool their children with DS - the numbers are growing rapidly given the lists I moderate and the bloggers I am meeting. I know two families via the blogosphere with older children with Down syndrome - Barbara and Laurie who share their wisdom, insights and experiences - and many families with younger children. There is no need for anyone on this journey to do it alone like I did for all those years!

My daughter's homeschooling experience

"Share your children’s home education experience in their own words. What have they said about their education? What are their likes and dislikes? Share some stories, some quotes, or turn your blog over to your children for the day."




From K, my 15 y.o. - what every homeschooling mama wants to hear...

"I’ve been homeschooled my entire life. I love being homeschooled. I have never wanted to attend a public school. My mom is a wonderful teacher and I have gotten a wonderful education. As a homeschooled child, I’ve had to work hard, but in a good way. I have a wonderful Bible class and work with a Christian curriculum. I get my work done early so I have free time to do things I enjoy - like reading, writing, and drawing.

I love spending time with my family. We enjoy the flexibility of homeschooling and take frequent vacations - quality family time with lots of learning opportunities! I have seen London, Hawaii and Israel and much of the U.S.A - places I doubt I would have seen if I hadn't been homeschooled.

I can honestly say that I am grateful for the fact that Mom wanted to homeschool me. I’ve learned so much and the experience has been wonderful - and that’s an understatement!"

Just so you all will know, we have had many a challenging day where we (well, mostly me) have all been in tears. In our early years, I admit to looking in the mirror first thing in the morning and saying to myself - I could have this whole day to myself - but then reality sinks in. I never tell anyone this journey is easy but with perseverance it all comes together - things click and you find what works for your family. It is process that becomes a lifestyle. I will never regret the investment I have made in my children. Things like time alone, lunch with friends or shopping 'til I drop - things I may have missed because I homeschool seem superficial when I look at the way my girls are growing up. They know what is really meaningful in this life - loving the Lord and loving their neighbors. I love being their mom...

See more about Home Education Week at: Principled Discovery

Show and Tell

"Show off those talents. Share a story, a special moment, a piece of artwork. Any accomplishment, great or small, is fair game."

Most parents take for granted that their children will ride a bike with relative ease. Not true for most children with Down syndrome. They have a great deal of difficulty losing those training wheels.

A couple of years ago I sent Miss R to bike camp - a camp for children with special needs. It is a five day camp with a huge success rate...and lots of hard work for the kids.

Have you ever wept with joy?
















See more about Home Education Week at: Principled Discovery

Recipe

"Share a recipe...figuratively, as in two parts love, one part creativity, or literally, as in a super quick, nutritious meal your kids scarf up."

Literal today - busy, activity filled day! I made this for my girls last week and they scarfed it up!



Noodles Romanoff

8 oz wide noodles – cooked and drained
1 cup cream style cottage cheese
1 cup sour cream (I used light)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. grated onion
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tblsp. butter
Salt and Pepper to taste
Cayenne pepper (optional)


1/4 c grated Parmesan cheese
Paprika

Cook noodles according to package directions.

Combine remaining ingredients except last Parmesan cheese.

Add noodles and mix well. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with Paprika.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Sorry, no picture. It went so fast I had no time to grab a camera!

See more about Home Education Week at: Principled Discovery

Challenges

"Share your greatest challenge."



I have faced many challenges through the years on our homeschooling journey but the greatest was unlocking the key to learning for my youngest with Down syndrome (DS). We decided early in her life that the system in our area could not meet her learning needs and began our homeschooling journey. Children with DS commonly have auditory processing challenges with impaired short-term memory, difficulty with attention, delayed language acquisition and articulation issues, impaired cognition, and gross/fine motor delays - significant issues.

I, like most other parents who have children with special needs, spent a great deal of time in research about my child's condition. The more I learned, the greater confidence I felt that I could parent this child AND meet her learning needs by homeschooling her.

Homeschooling is a natural extension of what parents do to care for and nurture their child's growth and development - homeschooling begins at birth. A child with Down syndrome needs specific instruction in skill acquisition and development in areas that are often taken for granted by parents of typically developing children due to the challenges they face. Fortunately for families with children with DS, our children face etiology-specific (specific to DS) learning challenges and DS is the most well-researched syndromes that causes intellectual impairment. There is a great deal known about the way children with DS learn BUT it takes an information junkie and a great deal of persistence to find it. I confess to being an information addict which has blessed our lives in the knowledge I gained.

So, overall I am very pleased with where we are on our journey. I can't take away the challenges my daughter faces but I can give her the tools to help her be more functionally competent in this world. More challenges remain but I have faith that the joys will continually outweigh the discomfort that challenges bring.

See more about Home Education Week at: Principled Discovery

Profile of Our Day

"Describe yourself, your family, or one of your children. What is it like to be home educated in your family? What is "normal" for you?"

We are fairly structured in our days. I have found that it is me who needs the most structure! If I don't plan it, it doesn't happen!


Record keeping is not required for homeschoolers in my state but because I homeschool a child with special needs (and my own obsessive-compulsive nature) I do plan and record our days. I use a very basic template of my own design to plan and monitor progress of our daughter with Down syndrome. I have found it is the best way to keep ME on track and I can see the baby steps (and giant steps!) my daughter makes daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. Our daily schedule is quite flexible though. I learned long ago that flexibility is the only way to stay sane!!!

I confess to needing lots of sleep. I am at my best with 8 (or more) hours of sleep. My children are older (13 & 16) so my life is a bit more relaxed than when we first started our journey. My 16 y.o. is more like her dad - she is up at the crack of dawn to get her day started so she can get to her beloved books, writing, knitting etc. - all the things she loves that come after school! She is a gifted student and quite independent these days. She is artistically inclined while I am not.

Miss R, my 13 y.o. with Down syndrome, thrives on our one-on-one learning time. This year I have added a lot of software and online learning programs and have found them quite valuable because they are high interest and visual - a perfect fit for her learning style.

Our days usually flow smoothly. The girls know what is expected and they are fairly compliant. Miss R has rewards built into her day to keep her motivated and enthusiastic. We do reading and math - then she gets a little computer time. After science, social studies and writing, she gets to watch a DVD. I truly think lunch is her biggest motivator because we eat when she is done!

We are generally done with formal schooling by 12:30-1:00 p.m. I remember our early days on this homeschooling adventure where we didn't finish until the middle of the afternoon. Then we often are able to do errands or fun things like socialize with friends. It wasn't always this easy but that is another story for another day!

Read more about the lives of homeschoolers: Principled Discovery