For some time now I’ve been tossing around the idea that we should homeschool Monkey. I feel very strongly that he learns best from us. He has learned great things in pre-school from watching other kids but he also experiences a lot of anxiety at school.
We had horrendous transitions to school from late October until February and he was really struggling in the classroom. Despite the fact that we had written into his IEP the need for him to have a sensory diet, one was never put into place. They’ve simply relied on giving him access to his blankie (for comfort) and a chewy tube whenever they think of it and the teacher has periodically argued to remove even those supports because they make him “look different.” She’s been very adament that she wants him to look “normal” which is all well and good but not at the expense of his ability to cope in the classroom.
So, it’s been in the back of my mind that this would be a good thing for Monkey but I had never heard of anyone homeschooling kids with special needs before and I was, honestly, scared to even try it. Last week a message came across the fragile x mailing list that I subscribe to from a mom who does just that. Eventually someone mentioned that there is a yahoo group on this topic. It’s been around a while and is a bit quiet but I hope that the renewed interest in it will change that.
I encourage anyone who is homeschooling or wants to homeschool to join, the more voices the better. I actually think anyone could benefit from joining, I’m sure there are lots of things these folks do that we could use even if we continue with public school and supplement at home.
i have the same issue with the sensory stuff. they don’t understand that he requires it in order to learn — and he requires it every day, not just on “bad” days. i think it’s great you’re looking into this! good for you.
The lack of consistency is what drives us batty.
We’ve tried to explain to them that if they work at maintaining his arousal consistently throughout the day, whether he looks like he needs it or not, they won’t see him melt down over “nothing.” He’s NOT melting down over “NOTHING” people, it’s a cumulative effect.
It’s so frustrating that we’re still in the same position 9 months down the line.
I just have to be brave enough to trust our ability to do this…that is my last roadblock.