Here are some tips for adapting your homeschool curriculum to better help your child while also making sure that they are learning and growing.
Homeschooling is a great choice for parents of children with special needs. It can be a big commitment, and it may seem challenging, especially when first starting out. But, overall homeschooling is a rewarding way to spend more time with your child while making sure that they are learning at the right pace. If you have been homeschooling your child for a while, then as you start this semester, you might be wondering if your curriculum is working the best for your child’s success. Here are some tips for adapting your homeschool curriculum to better help your child while also making sure that they are learning and growing.
Create Your Own IEP
An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a method commonly used in public schools for children with disabilities. The point of an IEP is to allow certain accommodations, depending on the child’s needs. For example, some accommodations can include providing additional time to take tests or verbal instructions instead of written ones. When it comes to homeschooling, most curriculums that you find won’t include an IEP, but it is very easy to create your own. At the beginning of the semester, you can evaluate your child’s past performance as well as recommendations from their doctor and therapist to help you decide which accommodations will work the best for them. Keeping track of these accommodations will help you justify them to the school board.
Adjust Questions
Similarly, you can alter your curriculum without necessarily adding accommodations by shifting your approach to each lesson. A great way to do this is by adjusting the questions that the lessons and assignments present. Many children with special needs tend to struggle with subjective and open-ended questions. If you see a question like that, you could simplify it.
Take Breaks
One of the best things about homeschooling is that you can customize your schedule. If you find that your child can focus better in the evenings, for example, then you can work on their more challenging subjects later in the day. Also, you are free to take breaks at the best times for your child. In public schools, it is standard to have a large break in the middle of the day. You might find that taking several smaller breaks will make it easier for your child to focus.
The Connections Therapy Center
The Connections Therapy Center serves families of children and adolescents with disabilities and special needs. We are a team of experts in the fields of pediatric speech, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and behavioral sciences. As a team, we offer intensive hands-on therapy for children and adolescents, as well as informative and useful resources for families. If you are interested in learning more about what we can do to help your family, visit us online or give us a call at (301) 577-4333. Want to get more information on how to help your child thrive? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.