Special Needs

Many families find homeschooling the best fit for their child with a special need. As a homeschool family, you can make any accommodation necessary to create a learning environment where your children thrive. You don’t need an IEP meeting or approval from someone else. If audiobooks work better than print – use them! If your child needs a talk-to-text program – use it! If your child needs to bounce, have shorter increments of on-task learning, or have fewer problems to solve, you have the power to implement those changes!

It can be discouraging when a professional advises you that the only way your child can succeed is by attending public school or by undergoing a specific therapy. While these options may work for some, they may not be the best fit for every child. Every child is unique, and no one knows a child better than their parents. It’s important to listen to professionals and consider their advice, but also do your own research and ultimately make the best decision for your child based on their individual needs. Trust your instincts as a parent.

Below are resources that may help you on your homeschool journey.

Expos

Finding Calm

Loop Earbuds – these are perfect for adults needing to quiet their surroundings and also for children who get overstimulated. Choose from varying levels of noise reduction. (My favorite is the Switch because you can change the levels. The lowest level allows you to block out excessive noise and hear what you actually want to hear!) (Aff Link)

SC State Museum Sensory Nights – These FREE events are “designed for children with sensory needs as part of EdVenture’s mission to celebrate inclusion, and to give all children the ability to experience the joy of learning and discovery without barriers” (SC State Museum). Available at the Columbia and Myrtle Beach locations!

Testing and Assistance

Homeschooling the Special Needs Child – Susan Blackwell offers testing and consulting for families homeschooling a child with special needs.

IDEA – The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires services to be available for all students, including homeschoolers. You can contact your local school district and see what programs are available to you. (Search Child Find or IDEA on the district’s webpage.)

General Resources

SPED Homeschool – “Empowering families to help diverse learners reach their full potential at home” (SPED).

SC Assistive Technology Program – “The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) uses technology devices and services to help people with disabilities live, work and learn more independently. We are federally funded and part of a national network that provides the devices that increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities for people with disabilities” (SCATP).

Family Connection of SC – Information and support for families. Includes training webinars.

LD Online – All about learning disabilities and ADHD

NATHHAN– National Challenged Homeschoolers Associated Network/Christian Families Homeschooling Special Needs Children

Schoolhouse Teachers – Schoolhouse Teachers offers self-pace curriculum for every grade level. At one low price, you can pick and choose resources for all grades for your entire family. They offer a dedicated Special Needs Resource Center, ebooks on demand, video lesson options, and parent resources. (aff link)

Dyslexia

Homeschooling with Dyslexia – This site contains resources to educate the homeschool educator and provides recommended curriculum and resources for your students.

Dyslexia Test – FREE dyslexic test for kids.

International Dyslexia Association – Take a self-assessment test to see if you may have dyslexia, and find tons of resources!

Rainbow Row Dyslexia Services – Now offers a brand new test called the TOD (Tests of Dyslexia). This test is much less expensive than a full neuropsychological evaluation, takes less time, and the recommendations for accommodations are being accepted by the College board/SATs.

Open Dyslexic Font – Many people with dyslexia find this font easier to read. Many e-readers allow you to change your font to Open Dyslexic Font.

Bible in Open Dyslexic Font– For each Bible study created, Rewbi Bible Studies puts the corresponding book of the Bible in Open Dyslexic font. This is a FREE download! (Currently available: Galatians, Ruth, and Jonah.)

Books in Dyslexic Font – Amazon offers many books in dyslexic font. (Aff link)

Susan Markloff – If you like fantasy, check out author Susan Markloff! She offers each of her books in dyslexic font! (Indie authors are the best!)

Autism

Homeschooling a Child with Autism – This site has a collection of books, articles, and websites useful for families homeschooling a child with autism.

Tips – This article has tips for homeschooling a child with autism.

Dr. Temple Grandin – Temple is an adult who has autism, and she is an inspiration with helpful insights on autism. She is a published author and speaker.

Autism Foundation – Their mission is to help support both those living with autism and the families and communities that support them.

Autism Speaks – “This Tool Kit provides parents with an overview of strategies you can use at home to limit challenging behaviors. It will also help you teach your child positive behaviors” (Autism Speaks).

ADD/ADHD

CHADD – “Vision: A world that recognizes, incorporates, and celebrates the strengths of those with ADHD” (CHADD).

Understood – Supports people who learn and think differently.

College Bound

SAT and ACT Accommodations– If your homeschooler plans to take the SAT or ACT, he may qualify for accommodations. **You will need to provide documentation in order to receive accommodations.**

Accommodations in College – Make sure you make an appointment with the college’s special services/ disability services to find out what they offer and how your child can qualify.

Book Club

Books worth Reading

(Amazon aff links)

Are you a TSCHAA member? Make sure you have joined our EWOKs support group. Educating Wonderfully Original KidS is our Facebook support group for families homeschooling a student with special needs.