What happens when your child wants to be at school—but their body and brain are telling them they can’t? In this deeply personal episode of Let’s Get Curious with Replenishing Soul, Lori shares an update on her daughter’s journey through learning challenges, ADHD, anxiety, and nervous-system dysregulation—and the difficult decision to homeschool.

After years of therapies, changing schools, learning about nutrition and the brain-gut connection, and exploring nervous-system regulation, Lori began noticing new clues. Her daughter was increasingly overwhelmed by school and everyday stimulation, withdrawing from activities she loved and eventually struggling to make it through even an hour of school. Lori found herself at a crossroads, facing fear and uncertainty about what would happen if she stepped away from traditional school.

Homeschooling became an unexpected season of healing. Instead of trying to recreate a classroom at home, Lori learned to follow her daughter’s lead, work with the way her brain learned best, incorporate movement and breaks, and give her nervous system the time it needed to recover. Slowly, her confidence returned—and eventually, so did her desire to return to school.

Today, her daughter is back in school full-time, rebuilding friendships, participating in sports, and discovering what she is capable of. The journey wasn't about finding one perfect answer. It was about paying attention, staying curious, and being willing to change course when something wasn't working.

Most importantly, Lori shares a message for every parent: watch for the clues, listen to your child’s words, track the patterns, learn how they learn, and follow your gut. Sometimes the most important question isn't “How do I get my child to keep going?” but “What does my child need right now?”

SHOW NOTES:

Below are a list of previous podcast we have done with experts in their fields. If you are curious about figuring out the "WHY" to your child's behaviors and/or struggles these episode can help. Don't wait around for the "Let's Wait and See" comment- be curious instead.

Episode #32: The Hidden Connection Between Sensory Processing, Learning & Emotional Regulation with Pediatric OT, Missy Broxton.

Episode #29: Why Crawling, Reflexes & Sensory Development Matter with Missy Broxton, Pediatric OT

Episode #28: Why Breathing, Sleep and Tongue Position Matter for Your Child's Development with Kelly Carter, Pediatric Speech Therapist

Episode #25: Making Sense of Learning Strugges: A Pediatric Occupational Therapist Explains

Episode #24: ADHD, Anxiety and Big Feelings: An Insightful Conversation with Child Psychologist Dr. Paul Kesselman

Episode #6: Let's Talk Vision with Dr. Tina Schiller O.D.

Disclaimer:
The information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and is based on the opinions and experience of Lori, Dorothy and their guests. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast.