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  • Beyond Perfection: How to Foster Legible and Functional Handwriting

    Beyond Perfection: How to Foster Legible and Functional Handwriting
    2026/04/09
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! If you've found yourself wondering if handwriting still matters in a digital world, or why your child's writing looks so different from their abilities in other areas, this episode is for you. We are unpacking the real value of handwriting for learning—both print and cursive—and why these skills deserve attention in a homeschool setting. You'll hear practical insights about what "good handwriting" actually means, how to spot the foundational skills your child needs before writing even begins, and how environment and mindset have more influence than any fine motor activity alone. In this episode you'll hear about: Handwriting coaching and creation of Ledgie Liner stampsObservations from pushing into classrooms (lack of handwriting guidelines in older grades)Inspiration and development of a rolling ink stamp for handwritingTeacher and student responses, patenting the product, and building a businessThe Importance of Handwriting in a Digital AgeBrain connections and retention linked to handwritingFine motor and sensory benefits of writing versus typingThe value of handwriting for reading fluency and cognitive developmentThe renewed push to teach cursiveDefining "Good" HandwritingPrimary importance of legibility over perfection or pencil gripAnalyzing what makes handwriting legible Letter height (e.g., differentiating N vs. H)Letter closure (e.g., A vs. U)Spacing and orientation on the lineImportance of pinpointing specific issues to focus on for improvement Techniques and Strategies for Teaching HandwritingUsing lines and cues to support handwriting:Teaching with tall, small, and "fall" lettersEmploying creative analogies (sky/grass/ground, fish for underwater letters)Customizing strategies to student interests and developmental levelThe benefits of the homeschool environment for flexibility and customizationFoundational Skills and Environmental FactorsHandwriting Versus PerfectionismDifferentiating functional handwriting from perfection/neatnessEmphasis on legibility and function over picture-perfect writing Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersLegiLiner WebsitePolly Benson LinkedInPolly Benson InstagramLegiLiner YoutubeLegiLiner AmazonCheck Out Our Title Sponsor CTC MathCTC Math Free TrialPrimitive Reflexes Resource GuideHow To Think About HandwritingMaking Sense Of The Handwriting Puzzle- CourseEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting SuccessEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better Handwriting Episode 38: Practical Learning Tools from a Homeschool Graduate: Sensory Kits for Homeschool Success Episode 55: Understanding Dysgraphia: Tools and Strategies for Homeschoolers Episode 56: Unlocking Writing Confidence in Children: The Role of Personal Expression Episode 77: Turning letters into play- how doodling helps handwriting Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here. Connect With Our Guest, Polly Benson Polly Benson, OTR/L, also known as The OT Handwriting Coach, is a seasoned occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience helping children build confidence through improved handwriting and fine motor skills. She's the inventor of LegiLiner®, a popular rolling ink stamp used by thousands of educators and therapists to make handwriting practice easy and effective. Polly is passionate about making OT strategies accessible—especially for students who don't qualify for services but still need support. In addition to presenting nationally, Polly mentors other OT entrepreneurs and launched a mastermind networking group to help therapists and teachers grow product-based businesses that make a difference. Her company donates 10% of profits to support the special needs community, extending her mission of impact beyond the classroom. Polly will also be featured this year on "Legacy Makers" showing on Inside Success TV, celebrating her work in innovation, education, and advocacy. With a heart for service and a gift for making learning fun, Polly is on a mission to help every child write with confidence.
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    29 分
  • When Kids Need to Move: Creating Sensory Spaces at Home That Actually Help Regulation

    When Kids Need to Move: Creating Sensory Spaces at Home That Actually Help Regulation
    2026/03/26
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! If you have ever found yourself saying 'no' more than you'd like, or wondering how to support your child's sensory and movement needs at home without turning your space upside down, this episode is for you. Today we're looking at the actual environment our kids live and learn in—and why the way you arrange your home matters just as much as the curriculum you choose. In homeschooling, the flexibility to adapt your physical space is both a unique opportunity and a challenge. It's not just about adding more equipment or activities; it's about noticing how your space either helps your child's body and brain work together—or puts them in constant conflict. We get practical about how to set up your home to lower friction, say yes more often, and support everyone's needs—including your own—without sacrificing function or aesthetics. We'll reframe what "sensory-friendly" really means, and why small adjustments can change daily life for the whole family. In this episode you'll hear about: Sensational Spaces: Mission and UniquenessSensational Spaces supports families across 20 states, in partnership with organizations like Make-A-Wish.Unique approach: Working with donation-based funding, grants, waivers, and prioritizing affordability.Comparison to other solutions: How Sensational Spaces' approach differs from traditional home modification services or insurance-based OT interventions.Basics of Proprioception and Environmental AssessmentIntake and assessment process before modifying a space.Key indicators when evaluating if a home environment supports or inhibits sensory needs.Practical Steps for Creating Sensory-Friendly SpacesWhat it looks like to modify a home for sensory support.Focus on reducing friction between caregiver and child.Importance of "yes spaces" versus spaces full of restrictions.Environmental guidelines: predictable flow, reduced visual noise, cozy corners, and purposeful movement opportunities.Family Balance and Sibling/Parent NeedsReal-life examples: managing differences between siblings' sensory needs.Strategies for shared spaces, including creative solutions like physical dividers.Highlighting the importance of considering the entire family unit, not just the sensory-seeking child.Balancing structure and freedom to build advocacy and compassion.How to incorporate movement and regulation opportunities into daily routines (before dinner, morning activities, etc.).Use of visuals like calendars, charts, and checklists for routine-building.Adapting Strategies as Kids GrowAcknowledgement that children's sensory needs and routines evolve over time.Emphasis on adaptability and noticing changing needs as kids age.Supporting Teens and Adults with Sensory NeedsApproaches for tweens, teens, and adults—how proprioceptive strategies shift.Use of oral motor tools (e.g., water bottles with chew valves) as covert proprioceptive strategies.Age-appropriate tools: weighted blankets, backpacks, and subtle sensory supports.Importance of normalizing and embedding sensory needs within ordinary routines.Cost-Effective Solutions and ResourcesEmphasis on not always having to buy sensory-labeled expensive products.Creative, low-cost ideas using household items (couch cushions, DIY crash pads, straws, laundry baskets).Cautions and tips for buying equipment: reliability, product vetting, and using trusted resources. Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Sensory Activity Ideas HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersHomeschool Daily Setup: Parental Planning GuideSENSEational Spaces Equipment CatalogueSENSEational Spaces Transformations Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX WebsiteEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 10: Streamlining Your Space: Organizing for Better Executive Functioning Episode 20: Tailored Kids' Activities from Crafts to Sleep: Insights from Connie O'Neill Episode 38: Practical Learning Tools from a Homeschool Graduate: Sensory Kits for Homeschool Success Episode 48: Transforming Fashion for Sensory Needs: An Interview with Julia, Adaptive Apparel Pioneer Episode 58: Practical Tips for handwriting- how to know and what to do if the issue is motor planningEpisode 67: Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence Episode 72: Navigating Sensory needs and sibling dynamics in homeschooling Episode 90: When Kids Can't Sit Still: Understanding What Their Bodies Are Telling You Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest, Alexi Christensen At SENSE-ational Spaces, LLC we utilize our occupational therapy lens to support individuals with ...
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    35 分
  • When Kids Can't Sit Still: Understanding What Their Bodies Are Telling You

    When Kids Can't Sit Still: Understanding What Their Bodies Are Telling You
    2026/03/12
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! d your child running, climbing, or crashing into things and wondered why movement seems to settle them rather than wind them up, this episode will get you thinking differently about what's driving that behavior. Today we're digging into proprioception—the often-overlooked sense that helps your child feel grounded, focused, and safe in their body. In the homeschool environment, you have the flexibility to adapt routines and learning spaces, but it can be hard to tell the difference between excess energy and your child's genuine need for sensory input. We'll unpack what proprioception really is, how it organizes both behavior and attention, and the subtle ways it shows up throughout your day—from breakfast routines to transitions and mealtimes. You'll learn why supporting this sense on purpose makes academic tasks easier and reduces power struggles—especially for children who struggle to sit still, stay on task, or manage big feelings. In this episode you'll hear about: Clear definition of Proprioception (with reference to the American Occupational Therapy Association – AOTA)Explanation of how proprioception works (muscles, joints, tendons, pressure, compression, stretching)Importance in everyday activities (e.g., holding objects, navigating steps, estimating force)Contrasting Proprioception and Vestibular SystemDefinition and function of the vestibular system (AOTA reference)How vestibular is the body's "GPS for movement"Key differences and interplay between the two systemsPractical Example: Tree ClimbingBreakdown of how both sensory systems work during tree climbingProprioceptive roles (grip, force, balance, stability)Vestibular roles (detecting upward movement, changes in balance/orientation)The Impact of Proprioceptive InputDeep muscle/joint input as calming and organizingWhy activities like tree climbing can regulate the nervous systemPractical Guidance for Parents & FamiliesRecognizing when children seek proprioceptive input (climbing, crashing, running)Rethinking discipline: supporting regulation needs vs. correcting behaviorsIntegrating Proprioception into the DayMorning routines and the benefits of early proprioceptive inputPractical sensory activities (carrying, pushing, wall push-ups, chair push-downs, resistance bands)Improved transitions to academic workProprioception Around MealtimesAddressing challenges like movement/chewing at mealsStrategies: involving kids in food prep, offering chewy/crunchy foods for oral inputOutcomes: better postural stability and engagementUsing Proprioception for Smoother TransitionsWhy transitions are dysregulatingIncorporating start-and-stop proprioceptive activities (e.g., obstacle courses, "mommy races")Group activities and teamwork (e.g., carrying bins, holding doors)Supporting Learning and AttentionImportance of body regulation for sustained attentionAssessing physical supports (e.g., foot support, alternative seating)Flexible learning setups in homeschooling (e.g., steps, couch, pillows, movement breaks) Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Sensory Activities Guide HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers How Sensory Processing Issues Affect Kids In School Implications of Sensory Processing and Attentional Differences Associated With Autism in Academic Settings: An Integrative ReviewCheck Out Our Title Sponsor CTC MathCTC Math Free TrialEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting Success Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara KosinskiEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better HandwritingEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children Episode 72: Navigating Sensory Needs and Sibling Dynamics in Homeschooling Episode 75: Building Lifelong Healthy Habits One Simple Step at a Time: Encouragement for Homeschool Families Episode 81: Navigating Social Pressures, Masking, and Expectations Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here.
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    29 分
  • The Emotional Power of Family Reading: Fostering Vocabulary and Connection

    The Emotional Power of Family Reading: Fostering Vocabulary and Connection
    2026/02/26
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! If you've ever wondered whether reading aloud to your kids really matters once they're past the early years—or found yourself worrying that reading together is becoming stressful or too focused on performance and skill—this episode is for you. Today, we're exploring how read-alouds shift as children grow, and why this tradition remains deeply relevant for homeschool families at every stage. You'll hear honest observations on how shared story time builds not just vocabulary, but emotional connection, family culture, and a sense of roots—regardless of how well your child reads or how old they are. In this episode you'll hear about: How perspectives and priorities shift as children grow older.The difference between connecting with peers in similar life stages and seeking mentorship from those ahead.The unique challenges of finding relevant mentorship as times and educational requirements change.The ongoing value of shared experiences in parenting and homeschooling.Mentorship and Community in HomeschoolingReading Aloud as a Family TraditionFoundation and evolution of reading aloud in the Johnston family.Using stories to explore heritage, diversity, and family background.Sharing stories as a communal learning experience.The Role of Reading Aloud in Family ConnectionThe continued importance of reading aloud, including with teens, even as participation shifts.Shared Language, Family Lexicon, and Vocabulary DevelopmentThe benefits of reading aloud for both parents and children, including pronunciation and vocabulary acquisition.Language Processing and Learning DifferencesAddressing Reading Challenges and ExpectationsAdvice for parents whose children are averse to reading independently.Navigating Changes as Children Gain Reading IndependenceEmotions and dynamics when kids begin reading independently and the parent is no longer central.The need for parents to adjust and expand the types of books shared aloud with older kids.Handling feelings of being left out as children have new experiences and knowledge.Knowing When to Abandon BooksSituations where it's okay to stop reading a book that isn't resonating with the family.The balance between persistence and letting go of unenjoyable reads. Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Companion Guide For Why Reading Is Hard And What To Do About ItWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX WebsiteEpisode 8: Kaleb's StoryEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 10: Streamlining Your Space: Organizing for Better Executive FunctioningEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy BodkinEpisode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and Planning Episode 44: Prioritizing Slow in Homeschooling: A chat with Leslie Martino Episode 72: Navigating Sibling Sensory Needs and Homeschooling Wins and Fails Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest Amber O'Neal Johnston Amber O'Neal Johnston is an author, speaker, and world schooling mama who curates a life-giving, culturally rich home education for her four children—and encourages others to do the same. She champions the use of books and lessons that reflect the lived experiences of children and introduce them to lives and cultures beyond their own, offering both "mirrors and windows" through the power of story. She is the author of A Place to Belong, a guide for raising kids to celebrate their heritage, community, and the world, and Soul School, a masterfully curated collection of booklists that explore the fullness of the Black American cultural experience. Amber is also the editor of Homegrown, a collaborative work offering guidance and inspiration for navigating the homeschooling journey.
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    32 分
  • Making Literacy Feel Natural in Your Everyday Life

    Making Literacy Feel Natural in Your Everyday Life
    2026/02/12
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Download The Companion Guide For Why Reading Is Hard And What To Do About It If you've ever wondered why reading feels so different from day to day in your homeschool—why one lesson is smooth and the next is an uphill climb—this episode is for you. Today, we're looking at the five pillars of literacy from a more connected, practical lens. Instead of treating phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension as isolated skills, I'll show you how each one is woven into a child's sensory world, routines, and relationships and why that makes all the difference in homeschooling. We'll talk about environments that invite learning, habits that build confidence, and the subtle reasons a child's body and brain might resist or lean into reading. This approach matters because homeschool parents see the full picture academic progress and daily life blend together. Recognizing the signs beneath reading struggles lets you reframe tough moments, offer the right support, and help literacy grow in ways that feel meaningful and sustainable for your family. In this episode you'll hear about: The Five Pillars of LiteracyOverview of each pillarCharlotte Mason's Educational PhilosophyConnection between Mason's philosophy and the five literacy pillarsDescription of a learning-rich home environmentEducation as DisciplineEducation as LifeImportance of connecting reading to passions and curiosityIntegrating Occupational Therapy (OT) PerspectiveUnderstanding the "Person" (Child)Understanding the "Environment"Understanding the "Occupation" (Task of Reading)Applying OT and Mason's Approach to Each Literacy PillarPhonemic AwarenessWhy movement helps learning soundsPhonicsFluencyVocabularyComprehensionAddressing Broader Reading ChallengesDistinguishing skill deficits from motivation or intelligenceEncouragement for parents: challenges often relate to supportable systems Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Companion Guide For Why Reading Is Hard And What To Do About ItWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersWhere To Get OTCheck Out These Montessori LettersCheck Out The Scooter BoardStomp Stilts Mentioned In The EpisodeKnow And Tell: The Art Of NarrationCheck Out Our BlogEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior In Homeschooling- Sensory Overwhelm, Emotional Control, PerseveranceEpisode 5: Beyond 20/20 vision: understanding crucial aspects of visual assessment in children Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara KosinskiEpisode 25: Understanding Hippotherapy: Therapeutic Equestrian Activities for Children's DevelopmentEpisode 37: Reading, Writing, and Growing: The Bigger Picture of Developing Fine Motor Skills in Children Episode 58: Practical Tips for handwriting- how to know and what to do if the issue is motor planning Episode 64: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for FamiliesEpisode 66: Building Connection Through Language Episode 71: When the Diagnosis Isn't the Destination: Encouragement for Parents Navigating Neurodiversity Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their products and resources here.
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    32 分
  • Rethinking Rhythm: Starting With Your Child, Not the Curriculum

    Rethinking Rhythm: Starting With Your Child, Not the Curriculum
    2026/01/22
    Download The Companion Guide For Acceptance & Expectancy In Homeschooling Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! If your homeschool days seem to run smoothly one season and unravel the next, this episode will help you understand why. Today we're exploring how the rhythm of your day shifts as your children grow and why what worked before may suddenly feel impossible. In homeschooling, these changes aren't problems to fix, but transitions to understand. I'll walk you through how I observe children's patterns and needs using a practical framework: the PEO model—person, environment, and occupation. You'll learn why starting with curriculum often misses the mark, and how putting your child's individuality, regulation, and interests at the center creates learning that actually sticks. This matters because in a homeschool setting, you have the flexibility to shape both space and schedule to fit where your child is developmentally. Recognizing these shifts gives you clearer options, replaces urgency with confidence, and helps you build days that support connection before curriculum, especially for kids who didn't fit in traditional environments. In this episode you'll hear about: Understanding Changes in Homeschool RhythmRecognizing developmental shifts versus problems to fixConcept of "Connection over Curriculum"Managing Urgency and Educational DecisionsStress around leaving traditional school or seeking a fresh homeschool startThe tendency to rush into curriculum choicesThe Foundation: Start with the Child, Not the CurriculumEducation works best when child-centered, not curriculum-centeredIntroduction to the PEO Model (Person, Environment, Occupation)Two key truths: Parents know and love their child bestScriptural reference: Ephesians 2:10—children as unique and purposefulReference to Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy—children as "born persons"Definition of acceptance (seeing the child without comparison or urgency)Definition of expectancy (believing in meaningful and supported growth)Importance of holding both acceptance and expectancy togetherObserving and Understanding Your Child (The OT Lens)Observational strategies for understanding "the person" in the PEO modelNoticing regulation and sensory needsNoticing the role of joy and interests as "doorways" into learningShifting Away From "What's Wrong" to "What's Needed"Changing focus from problems to supports needed for a child to thrivePrioritizing connection and emotional safety before curriculumThe Neuroscience Behind Connection and LearningIntroduction to Stephen Porges and Polyvagal TheoryEnvironment: Designing Supportive Spaces and RhythmsAdapting Rhythms as Children GrowPractical Examples of Supporting Regulation and RhythmStory of a preschooler whose meltdowns improved with a more predictable daily flowStory of a teenager whose engagement improved by shifting his schedule later in the dayEnvironmental Reflections for ListenersInviting listeners to evaluate and make simple changes to their physical spaces and daily anchorsUsing Interests to Drive LearningIdentifying interests via observation in free time and conversationPractical examples of adapting curriculum and learning activities to interests and needs (movement, chunking tasks, choice) Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Companion Guide For Acceptance & Expectancy In HomeschoolingWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersHomeschool Daily Setup: Parental Planning Guide Polyvagal Theory: A Science of SafetySystematic Review of School-Wide Trauma-Informed Approaches Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX WebsiteEpisode 4: The Evolving Landscape of Homeschool Community SupportEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha BerryEpisode 18: Practical Sleep Solutions for Children: Insights from Occupational Therapy Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child DevelopmentEpisode 35: Connecting Speech, Phonemic Awareness, and Literacy: Sydney B. Explains it All Episode 48: Transforming Fashion for Sensory Needs: An Interview with Julia, Adaptive Apparel Pioneer Episode 50: Ask The OT, A Special 50th Episode Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here.
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    31 分
  • Balancing Acceptance and Expectation: Building Executive Functioning in Homeschooling and Parenting

    Balancing Acceptance and Expectation: Building Executive Functioning in Homeschooling and Parenting
    2026/01/08
    Download The Companion Guide For Acceptance & Expectancy In Homeschooling Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! This week we're exploring one of the most profound tensions parents face: finding the balance between fully accepting our children as they are, and encouraging them to stretch, grow, and gain independence. Drawing on neuroscience, executive functioning research, and real-life stories, I'll unpack why kids need opportunities to try, make mistakes, and try again, and how this very process helps their brains develop resilience and problem-solving skills. You'll learn about the "just right challenge," the science of how our brains learn from errors, and practical strategies for scaffolding your child's growth in daily homeschool life. From supporting hesitant writers, to helping kids take on chores and navigate perfectionism, I'll provide OT-friendly guidance you can apply today. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler, a new parent, or somewhere in between, this episode offers both encouragement and actionable tools for nurturing independence, persistence, and confidence in your children. In this episode you'll hear about: Acceptance vs. Expectation in Parenting and HomeschoolingDefinition of acceptance: seeing children truly as they are now (sensory needs, executive functioning, emotional capacities)Definition of expectation: envisioning and believing in children's potential to stretch and growThe importance of balancing both for genuine child developmentKey Book Reference: Gretchen Rubin's "My Life in Five Senses"How the book's message applies to understanding and loving childrenParenting Challenges: Finding the BalanceThe need for balance for healthy growth and executive function developmentNeuroscience of Mistakes & LearningHow trial and error fosters executive skills (sequencing, planning, problem solving)Introduction to "error related negativity" (ERN) and "error positivity component" (PE)Physiology of mistake-driven learning and lifelong neuroplasticityHow Mistakes Fuel Learning & Executive FunctioningMistakes indicate active brain learning not failureImportance of applying neuroscience and OT principles at homeEmotional regulation and executive skills needed to cope with imperfectionStep-by-step modeling: starting imperfectly, co-regulating, collaborative effort, and gradual independenceAccepting where both child and parent are in the learning processCelebrating effort, process, and small steps forwardReminding parents progress is not always linear—growth happens in tiny stepsChoosing one area to support (writing, chores, routines, etc.)Questions for reflection: What does acceptance and expectation look like here?Identifying the current stage of gradual release for a childAllowing productive struggle and celebrating process over product Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Companion Guide For Acceptance & Expectancy In HomeschoolingWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGFree Trial of CTC MathHalf Priced Homeschool Discount- CTC MathThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersHomeschool Daily Setup: Parental Planning GuideMind Your Errors: Evidence for a Neural Mechanism Linking Growth Mind-Set to Adaptive Posterror AdjustmentsEpisode 7: Form DrawingEpisode 8: Kaleb's Story Episode 56: Nurturing Young Minds Through WritingEpisode 66: Declarative Language Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. Please enjoy a FREE TRIAL of CTC math from The Homeschool OT, and after your free trial enjoy half price homeschoolers discount here.
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    33 分
  • From Checklists to Flexibility: Helping Kids Plan Their Day

    From Checklists to Flexibility: Helping Kids Plan Their Day
    2025/11/20
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I sat down with Pam Barnhill—longtime homeschooler, former classroom teacher, and podcasting inspiration—for an insightful conversation about fostering independence and planning skills in homeschooled kids. Pam shares her own homeschooling journey, from her early days teaching preschool at home to launching her teens into work studies and career paths. Together we discuss the ups and downs of raising independent learners, offering practical tips for developing planning muscles, navigating different organizational styles, and supporting kids with unique needs, like dyslexia. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with relatable stories, honest reflections, and actionable ideas to help your family thrive. In this episode you'll hear about: Pam introduces herself, mentioning her background as a former classroom teacher and her journey as a homeschool mom.Discussion about learning alongside children and how homeschooling has been enriching for both parents and kids.Learning Through HomeschoolingPam's experience homeschooling her children from preschool through high school.The concept of "redeeming" one's own education as a homeschooling parent.Developing Independence and Planning SkillsThe importance of teaching kids independence in setting up and organizing their school day.The idea that independence is a muscle that needs gradual strengthening, not a switch.Tools and Techniques for PlanningUsing checklists and "Sarah McKenzie's spiral notebook" for tracking daily tasks, even before children can read.Benefits of lists/checklists in reducing decision fatigue for both kids and parents.Transition to weekly lists as kids mature, allowing more flexibility in how kids schedule their work.Adjusting planning approaches for each child based on their preferences and capabilities.Time Management and Overcoming OverwhelmTeaching children to estimate how long tasks will take and tracking actual times.Dealing with "this will take forever" feelings and procrastination.Using timers (e.g., 20-minute work blocks) to encourage focus and reduce overwhelm.The myth of "one right way" for planning and organization; acknowledging various effective approaches. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Social Skills & Executive FunctioningHomeschool Daily Setup: Parental Planning GuidePam Barnhill's WebsiteEpisode 10: Streamlining Your Space: Organizing for Better Executive FunctioningEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy BodkinEpisode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and Planning Episode 42: Executive Functioning Skills for Families: Holiday EditionEpisode 67: Setting Up A Homeschool Day Connect With Our Guest, Pam Barnhill Pam Barnhill believes that you don't have to sacrifice relationships to homeschool strong. An award-winning educator, former journalist, and now homeschooling mom, she has a knack for breaking down big tasks into small, manageable steps and getting to the heart of the stories her listeners want to hear. She is the host of the popular podcast Homeschool Better Together and the author of three homeschooling books, including: Better Together: Strengthen Your Family, Simplify Your Homeschool, and Savor the Subjects that Matter Most and Plan Your Year: Homeschool Planning for Purpose and Peace. Pam lives in the Deep South with her husband of thirty-one years, three (mostly) awesome kids, and the dog dynamic duo. You can find her online at pambarnhill.com.
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    31 分