Homeschooling Your Child With Sensory Needs

Are you considering homeschooling your child with sensory needs? If so, you are not alone. Many parents choose to homeschool their children with sensory processing disorder (SPD),autism spectrum disorder (ASD),attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),or other sensory issues. Homeschooling provides a supportive and flexible environment where children with sensory needs can thrive.

Understanding Sensory Needs

Children with sensory needs have difficulty processing information from their senses. They may be overly sensitive (hypersensitive) or under sensitive (hyposensitive) to sensory input such as touch, sound, taste, smell, and sight. This can lead to challenges in everyday activities and learning environments, making traditional schooling settings overwhelming for these children.

Homeschooling allows parents to create a customized learning environment that caters to their child's unique sensory needs. By reducing sensory triggers and providing individualized attention, homeschooling can help children with sensory needs reach their full potential.

HOMESCHOOLING YOUR CHILD WITH SENSORY NEEDS: A practical guide to helping your child learn with sensory processing disorder

by Shawna Wingert(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4249 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	20 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Learning Space

One advantage of homeschooling is the ability to design a sensory-friendly learning space. Consider the following tips when setting up your child's learning environment:

• Choose a quiet and well-lit area for learning.
• Use calming colors and avoid overwhelming decorations.
• Provide comfortable seating options that accommodate your child's sensory preferences.
• Minimize background noise and distractions.
• Use sensory tools such as fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones.

Creating a sensory-friendly learning space will help your child stay focused and engaged during lessons.

Individualized Learning Plans

Customizing your child's education is an essential aspect of homeschooling. With sensory needs in mind, you can tailor the curriculum to suit your child's learning style and pace. Individualized learning plans can help address any challenges your child may face due to sensory issues.

When planning lessons, consider incorporating different sensory experiences. For example, if your child is a visual learner, use visual aids, charts, and diagrams to enhance comprehension. For hands-on learners, incorporate tactile activities to promote engagement and understanding.

Sensory Breaks and Physical Activities

Children with sensory needs often benefit from frequent sensory breaks and physical activities. Incorporate movement breaks into your daily homeschooling routine to release excess energy and improve focus.

Engaging in activities such as yoga, dancing, or playing outside can provide sensory input and help regulate your child's sensory system. These breaks can also be an opportunity for sensory integration exercises, which promote the development of sensory processing skills.

Flexible Scheduling

Homeschooling allows for flexible scheduling, which can be particularly beneficial for children with sensory needs. Sensory issues can often disrupt a child's sleep patterns or cause difficulties in the morning.

By homeschooling, you can adapt the schedule to your child's natural rhythms, allowing for optimal learning opportunities. This flexibility can help reduce stress and create a positive learning experience for your child.

Accessing External Resources

Homeschooling does not mean you have to do it all on your own. There are numerous external resources available to support homeschooling families with sensory needs.

Consider connecting with local support groups, therapists, or online communities that specialize in homeschooling children with sensory processing issues. These resources can provide guidance, offer resources, and connect you with other parents who are on a similar journey.

Homeschooling can be a valuable option for parents seeking to provide a nurturing educational environment for their child with sensory needs. By understanding your child's sensory needs, creating a sensory-friendly learning space, customizing the curriculum, and accessing external resources, you can embark on a successful homeschooling journey.

Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It is important to experiment, adapt, and find strategies that best suit your child's individual needs. Homeschooling can offer a supportive and empowering experience for both you and your child as you navigate the world of education.

HOMESCHOOLING YOUR CHILD WITH SENSORY NEEDS: A practical guide to helping your child learn with sensory processing disorder

by Shawna Wingert(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4249 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	20 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

If you homeschool a child with sensory needs, you already know how much the sensory system can create chaos when it comes to learning.This practical guide provides information and practical suggestions for parents homeschooling children with sensory needs. It also takes the user through a step by step process for creating more sensory focused learning throughout a homeschool day.