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Home School and Disabilities

Homeschooling Your Special Child

Homeschooling is challenging to begin with, add the challenge of teaching a child with special needs and you are increasing the complexity of homeschooling your child at home. This does not mean that it can't be done, as there are many children with disabilities being homeschooled and successfully at that. However, there are some challenges and roadblocks along the way so here are a few tips to keep on your fridge and review when times get tough.

*Baby Steps: Yes we have all heard this before, and it's usually a good guideline for all of us. Its especially important when homeschooling your special child. A good rule of thumb is that the smaller the steps and the smaller the units, the better. Also, make sure you spend a long time on each step to assist your child in learning the material.

*Reading and Math Rule: Teach only these two subjects if you are running out of time. Make sure your child can read and knows their numbers. Other subjects can be taught within the context of these two skills. Don't skimp on reading or mathematics.

*Reading Trumps All: Another thought of reading, if your child can't read, nothing else matters. Sometimes you will have to do nothing but reading until your child catches on. Think of going through the world without reading? Exactly, this is why I mention this point.

*Disability Expert: You should become the biggest expert on your child's disability. Read up on it, find support groups, see what teaching methods work better than others for your child. You are only hurting your child if you try to ignore that he/she has some special learning needs. Also, public schools may also have some resources at hand. For example, some public schools give free testing and will offer advice and tips on working with your child.

Remember, you can do this, but not alone. I highly recommend finding a support group and utilizing your community to help you along the journey of homeschooling your child.

Carol Currie

Carol Currie is highly active in the homeschooling community and is the author of several homeschool e-books that guide parents through the process of homeschooling.


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