Guest guest Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 Miranda, Don’t feel guilty if you do not home school your child. Some people don’t realize what all is needed and what it would require for a parent to home school your own child. With special needs children there are many hats a “teacher” would have to wear. This means wearing all the therapy types of help that maybe available in school in addition to the one’s outside the school. As for me and my child, we need EF executive functioning, pragmatic language skills, social skills and a high IQ. We have grave problems at school and we always have. I tried home schooling him one summer in between school years just to “try it out”. I found it too difficult in the sense of providing my child everything that he needed was depriving him and me. Although it is not the ideal situation in public school, we are stuck and I have advocated for years for my 13yr old. If there were an easier solution that I haven’t poked into I would jump on the manner. I do know fighting for his rights have been very hard at least it’s not as many hats to switch. When a public school is not reaching the child’s potential or progress at least you have something to go on, the law. I wished that I personally didn’t have to fight for his rights however I have to ensure he gets what he needs. I don’t think for at least my son he needs to be taken out of a social environment regardless that he isn’t getting everything he needs and is misunderstood. I believe you have to do what is right for your child and yourself. Good Luck, Debs From: Autism and Aspergers Treatment [mailto:Autism and Aspergers Treatment ] On Behalf Of miranda.flemming Sent: Friday, June 18, 2010 2:55 AM To: Autism and Aspergers Treatment Subject: Re: homeschooling? The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him Miranda > > > > > > > > > Miranda, > > > > > > You can request that your son be given breaks when needed in school. They should have a quiet room that he can retreat to when he feels overwhelmed. I also had a friend who had her son's IEP written so that she got the lesson plans from the teacher in advance, so that she could go over the information with her son. This helped when he missed chunks of time in his class in order to take sensory breaks. > > > > > > > > > > > > If I think of some other ideas, I'll write some more later. I'm a little incoherent right now, because my son kept me up all night because of his stomach virus. Let's hope I (and he) can get a full night's rest. > > > > > > > > > > > > Take care, > > > Lora > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism and Aspergers Treatment > > > From: miranda.flemming@ > > > Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:16:22 +0000 > > > Subject: Re: homeschooling? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > trying to reduce his anxiety is a priority. Two options I see is meds plus special accomodations at school or homeschooling. Since his anxiety is tied up with school and so young, we're reluctant to use meds. I'm not sure what other options there are. Has anyone managed to help their young child work through their anxiety about school quickly and successfully? Meds won't help with sensory issues? > > > > > > Miranda > > > > > > > > > > > > __________________________________________________________ > > > The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. > > > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multicalendar & ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_5 > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 I forgot to mention on top of; the variety of hats you have to wear while home schooling depending on the variations your child may need. When someone say’s they are happy with home schooling remember that is their situation and child that can be a very different situation. Perhaps their child needs more help or perhaps their child may need less. On top of these issues don’t forget he’s rigid and easily frustrated. This can be a challenge I am sure. My son refuses to do class work period and has a high IQ. The intelligence is there however something blocks him for doing his work, distractions (ADHD), perhaps it’s the lack of motivation of the material being presented (not challenged enough) and lack of interests. So if the school cannot teach him, I don’t think he would allow “mom” to. I tried this myself and because I am “Mom” whom he has tend to listen in one ear and out the other especially now that he is a teenager. This particular problem has gone on since first grade actually before that. Re directing him to the task can be a huge challenge in itself with no batting of the eye to ensure he doesn’t get side tracked. I realize what a huge obstacle and challenge this is for teachers/school to face BECAUSE I home schooled him and know my child. Its ok to feel scared, it’s not easy as some may like to say just remember it’s your child not theirs that may vary greatly with physical and mental challenges. Most people have no understanding for why I have decided home schooling is not for us. Lets just say, I would feel much better to be a qualified OT, PT, AS and ADHD expert to fill my son’s needs just to start off with. These are the things I am not and…my son needs daily socialization regardless if he likes it or not because it is what our outside world is like. Although Im well aware of co op’s this doesn’t represent the outside world like public environment does. Is public always ideal? Not always however it’s the “real” world something my son needs especially for life skills in later life when he supports himself (hopefully). Deb’s From: Autism and Aspergers Treatment [mailto:Autism and Aspergers Treatment ] On Behalf Of Deborah Hitchcock Sent: Friday, June 18, 2010 8:56 AM To: Autism and Aspergers Treatment Subject: RE: Re: homeschooling? Miranda, Don’t feel guilty if you do not home school your child. Some people don’t realize what all is needed and what it would require for a parent to home school your own child. With special needs children there are many hats a “teacher” would have to wear. This means wearing all the therapy types of help that maybe available in school in addition to the one’s outside the school. As for me and my child, we need EF executive functioning, pragmatic language skills, social skills and a high IQ. We have grave problems at school and we always have. I tried home schooling him one summer in between school years just to “try it out”. I found it too difficult in the sense of providing my child everything that he needed was depriving him and me. Although it is not the ideal situation in public school, we are stuck and I have advocated for years for my 13yr old. If there were an easier solution that I haven’t poked into I would jump on the manner. I do know fighting for his rights have been very hard at least it’s not as many hats to switch. When a public school is not reaching the child’s potential or progress at least you have something to go on, the law. I wished that I personally didn’t have to fight for his rights however I have to ensure he gets what he needs. I don’t think for at least my son he needs to be taken out of a social environment regardless that he isn’t getting everything he needs and is misunderstood. I believe you have to do what is right for your child and yourself. Good Luck, Debs From: Autism and Aspergers Treatment [mailto:Autism and Aspergers Treatment ] On Behalf Of miranda.flemming Sent: Friday, June 18, 2010 2:55 AM Autism and Aspergers Treatment Subject: Re: homeschooling? The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him Miranda > > > > > > > > > Miranda, > > > > > > You can request that your son be given breaks when needed in school. They should have a quiet room that he can retreat to when he feels overwhelmed. I also had a friend who had her son's IEP written so that she got the lesson plans from the teacher in advance, so that she could go over the information with her son. This helped when he missed chunks of time in his class in order to take sensory breaks. > > > > > > > > > > > > If I think of some other ideas, I'll write some more later. I'm a little incoherent right now, because my son kept me up all night because of his stomach virus. Let's hope I (and he) can get a full night's rest. > > > > > > > > > > > > Take care, > > > Lora > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism and Aspergers Treatment > > > From: miranda.flemming@ > > > Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:16:22 +0000 > > > Subject: Re: homeschooling? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > trying to reduce his anxiety is a priority. Two options I see is meds plus special accomodations at school or homeschooling. Since his anxiety is tied up with school and so young, we're reluctant to use meds. I'm not sure what other options there are. Has anyone managed to help their young child work through their anxiety about school quickly and successfully? Meds won't help with sensory issues? > > > > > > Miranda > > > > > > > > > > > > __________________________________________________________ > > > The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. > > > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multicalendar & ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_5 > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 Miranda, You deserve a lot of praise for being honest. I really appreciate it, because I know how I can get frustrated, too. It doesn't mean we don't love our children, or appreciate their gifts, but it is hard to deal with tantrums and irrational behavior. My son, thankfully, doesn't have tantrums, but he has behaviors that can drive a person -- even the best mother -- nuts. If your child has ADD or ADHD on top of his other diagnosis, it could be that he is stimulated by conflict and provoking others to yell. My son has this habit; he argues and argues until someone yells. We've learned to controll that, but some days it is difficult. Since the summer break from school should have started or will start soon, you can see how things go without the pressure of school. If he calms down, then you knowl you'll have to figure out some sort of solution for his education. Homeschooling is one, but not the only. You mentioned that he could go to a different school that might be more comfortable for him. You could even try to work out a half-and-half solution with the school. I'm sorry you're under such stress now. It's because you are such a good mom that you're worried about your son and want to choose what's best for him. You can feel pulled in so many directions that you don't know which is the right one to follow. Take a deep breath and listen to what your gut tells you. Also, realize that you can always change direction if you find that something is working. If you choose the distant school, and then discover it's not helped or made things worse, you can pull him out of there and find a new school or homeschool for a while, or go back to his other school. Does your child have his own aide in his current school. If so, she/he should be able to tell you when he seems to be most stressed during the day, which could help you discover what is triggering his rage. Take care, Lora Autism and Aspergers Treatment From: miranda.flemming@...Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:54:40 +0000Subject: Re: homeschooling? The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help himMiranda The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 Miranda, I think you have done a very complete analysis of the pros/cons of homeschooling, and I think you will be happy with your choice overall. I have always homeschooled my Aspie, and though it has never been easy, it has been easier than navigating the school system. It is doable, even while working PT (I'm a single mom so i have no option). Kiara From: miranda.flemming <miranda.flemming@...>Autism and Aspergers Treatment Sent: Thu, June 17, 2010 1:19:44 AMSubject: homeschooling? I have just written a hub (article) about how I am considering homeschooling my AS son. Comments welcome.Mirandahttp://hubpages.com/hub/Why-I-am-Considering-Homeschooling-my-Child Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2010 Report Share Posted June 19, 2010 I am reading the book " The Explosive Child " and it certainly explains my child (inflexible, easily frustrated, irritable)and the analogy of expecting someone in a wheelchair to climb stairs made sense. My son is cognitively disabled and is stuck developmentally like a 2 year old with his inflexibility and low frustration threshold. Conventional parenting doesn't work (as we already figured). Our boy can be delightful with the right approach (been kind of trial and error so far, but this book makes a lot of sense so will apply the strategies to avoid meltdowns) It is a scary decison, because I'm not the " earth mother, carer " type and worry having him home 24/7 will burn me out? Miranda > > > > Miranda, > > You deserve a lot of praise for being honest. I really appreciate it, because I know how I can get frustrated, too. It doesn't mean we don't love our children, or appreciate their gifts, but it is hard to deal with tantrums and irrational behavior. My son, thankfully, doesn't have tantrums, but he has behaviors that can drive a person -- even the best mother -- nuts. If your child has ADD or ADHD on top of his other diagnosis, it could be that he is stimulated by conflict and provoking others to yell. My son has this habit; he argues and argues until someone yells. We've learned to controll that, but some days it is difficult. Since the summer break from school should have started or will start soon, you can see how things go without the pressure of school. If he calms down, then you knowl you'll have to figure out some sort of solution for his education. Homeschooling is one, but not the only. You mentioned that he could go to a different school that might be more comfortable for him. You could even try to work out a half-and-half solution with the school. > > > > I'm sorry you're under such stress now. It's because you are such a good mom that you're worried about your son and want to choose what's best for him. You can feel pulled in so many directions that you don't know which is the right one to follow. Take a deep breath and listen to what your gut tells you. Also, realize that you can always change direction if you find that something is working. If you choose the distant school, and then discover it's not helped or made things worse, you can pull him out of there and find a new school or homeschool for a while, or go back to his other school. > > > > Does your child have his own aide in his current school. If so, she/he should be able to tell you when he seems to be most stressed during the day, which could help you discover what is triggering his rage. > > > > Take care, > > Lora > > > Autism and Aspergers Treatment > From: miranda.flemming@... > Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:54:40 +0000 > Subject: Re: homeschooling? > > > > > > The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him > > Miranda > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multiaccount & ocid=PID28326::\ T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_4 > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2010 Report Share Posted June 19, 2010 excellent advise that backs up what we have been discovering Miranda > > > > > > > > > > > > Miranda, > > > > > > > > You can request that your son be given breaks when needed in school. They should have a quiet room that he can retreat to when he feels overwhelmed. I also had a friend who had her son's IEP written so that she got the lesson plans from the teacher in advance, so that she could go over the information with her son. This helped when he missed chunks of time in his class in order to take sensory breaks. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If I think of some other ideas, I'll write some more later. I'm a little incoherent right now, because my son kept me up all night because of his stomach virus. Let's hope I (and he) can get a full night's rest. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Take care, > > > > Lora > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism and Aspergers Treatment > > > > From: miranda.flemming@ > > > > Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:16:22 +0000 > > > > Subject: Re: homeschooling? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > trying to reduce his anxiety is a priority. Two options I see is meds plus special accomodations at school or homeschooling. Since his anxiety is tied up with school and so young, we're reluctant to use meds. I'm not sure what other options there are. Has anyone managed to help their young child work through their anxiety about school quickly and successfully? Meds won't help with sensory issues? > > > > > > > > Miranda > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > __________________________________________________________ > > > > The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. > > > > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multicalendar & ocid=PID28326:\ :T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_5 > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2010 Report Share Posted June 19, 2010 We're on Australia, so only halfway through school year Miranda > > > > Miranda, > > You deserve a lot of praise for being honest. I really appreciate it, because I know how I can get frustrated, too. It doesn't mean we don't love our children, or appreciate their gifts, but it is hard to deal with tantrums and irrational behavior. My son, thankfully, doesn't have tantrums, but he has behaviors that can drive a person -- even the best mother -- nuts. If your child has ADD or ADHD on top of his other diagnosis, it could be that he is stimulated by conflict and provoking others to yell. My son has this habit; he argues and argues until someone yells. We've learned to controll that, but some days it is difficult. Since the summer break from school should have started or will start soon, you can see how things go without the pressure of school. If he calms down, then you knowl you'll have to figure out some sort of solution for his education. Homeschooling is one, but not the only. You mentioned that he could go to a different school that might be more comfortable for him. You could even try to work out a half-and-half solution with the school. > > > > I'm sorry you're under such stress now. It's because you are such a good mom that you're worried about your son and want to choose what's best for him. You can feel pulled in so many directions that you don't know which is the right one to follow. Take a deep breath and listen to what your gut tells you. Also, realize that you can always change direction if you find that something is working. If you choose the distant school, and then discover it's not helped or made things worse, you can pull him out of there and find a new school or homeschool for a while, or go back to his other school. > > > > Does your child have his own aide in his current school. If so, she/he should be able to tell you when he seems to be most stressed during the day, which could help you discover what is triggering his rage. > > > > Take care, > > Lora > > > Autism and Aspergers Treatment > From: miranda.flemming@... > Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:54:40 +0000 > Subject: Re: homeschooling? > > > > > > The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him > > Miranda > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multiaccount & ocid=PID28326::\ T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_4 > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2010 Report Share Posted June 19, 2010 It's amazing how expensive 'free' education has become. Our kids are at a private school, so we have fees, plus constant requests for money for excursions, etc. I discovered a friend who has kids at public school - which is theoretically free - pays more in 'extras' than we do. The thing that annoys me is that we get a 'full' statement at the beginning of the year, then there are various items that turn up during the year because someone 'overlooked' them at the beginning of the year. It isn't amusing to arrange payments to have a zero balance at the end of the year, then discover that an extra $800 has turned up unexpectedly. That would just about pay for a complete set of uniforms. Riley On 19/06/2010 1:04 AM, Wittman wrote:  most activities around my area are quite reasonable. some are even free. also, our online school had its own activity calendar for days to meet at parks to socialize, our books, supplies, internet service, computers were all provided free of charge by our online school as was the curriculum. the local libraries and museums often have homeschool activities as do churches sometimes, you will find many resources that are not expensive. plus, what i found is that i was not constantly writing checks to pay for things at school and did not have to send lunch money or pack a lunch----which actually saved us money in the long run. renee Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2010 Report Share Posted June 19, 2010 Check into home-schooling thoroughly, as the education system in Australia is not as home-school friendly as in some parts of the US. I know someone who did their PhD studying homeschooling. I knew she was doing a PhD in education, but didn't know the area until she was interviewed on TV. I think she home-schooled her own kids. Depending on where you are, you may not find local resources that easy to come by. I don't want to discourage you, as home-schooling is the best option for some kids. We thought of it for Ben, but we had a good school that was willing to accommodate him almost literally next door. Now he is in year 10, totally bored, hates school, and achieving less than he is capable of, so we are again considering options. The school has made it fairly clear that it will provide a basic education, but if we want him to excell, that is our problem. For that reason, we're glad we are only half way through the year. On 19/06/2010 11:30 AM, miranda.flemming wrote:  We're on Australia, so only halfway through school year Miranda Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2010 Report Share Posted June 21, 2010 Whereabouts in Australia do you live? There is a website www.homeschoolaustralia.com which has heaps of information about home schooling in Australia. It also has information about support groups that may be in your area as LOTS of ways of how to approach schooling your child. There are so many ways to teach your child that it can sometimes be confusing, but this may be helpful for you. I also live in Australia (on the Central Coast of NSW) and my youngest son has been diagnosed with Aspergers. It can be difficult and some days, we don't get much done, but I find the best way for Luke is to read up what I want him to learn about and then go for a walk. On our walk, we talk about it and we have the best discussions and he learns heaps. I don't know if this will work for your son, but it doesn't have to be about bookwork. Schooling is just about learning - this can be through bookwork (easiest for schools), watching DVDs, listening to CDs, exploring in the backyard and discussing it, etc. The best way for Luke is if he doesn't know he is actually doing school work. As far as the burning out goes, just take it day by day. Try to get time to yourself when you can and don't get too stressed about schoolwork. I think that even though we don't get through a LOT of work, he is still learning and that is what is important. Schools tend to go through lots of work to make sure that they get the concept, but when you are working one-on-one, you know what he is learning. Also, there may be things that just aren't applicable to your son's learning. It is a huge decision to home school your child, but it doesn't have to be a life-long decision. If you find that it just doesn't work, then look at other options again. If you look too far into the future, it can be overwhelming. Good luck to you. Judy On 19/06/2010 11:30 AM, miranda.flemming wrote: > > We're on Australia, so only halfway through school year > > Miranda > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2010 Report Share Posted June 21, 2010 Miranda, I wanted to add a few things: Visual supports are very helpful in reducing frustration and anxiety. Often there are unrecognized auditory processing problems. Visual reminders reduce confusion,short term memory issues, and can help problems with executive function. They also help keep things consistent and safe for the anxious child. Add the other issues of autism (sensory, motor planning, emotional developmental delay, etc.) and the meltdowns, tantrums, acting out are simply communication that the person is not able to function well and lacks language tools to let us know. There is a saying among speech paths/ABA people that behavior IS communication. I agree. I think parents are pretty hard on themselves for not being able to " get it " the first or 40th time their child doesn't meet society's picture of the well-behaved child. When the child is away from home for hours each day (as in school), valuable parental observation and learning time is lost. I know more about my child because we spend most of the day together. I'm not a rabid homeschooler, but the longer we homeschool, the more sense it makes for this child. There really is less confusion at home for obvious reasons. Not every child thrives in brick and mortar environments, just as not every child thrives in homeschool environment. Your child is lucky that you are considering a different approach to one that is not working. I think it is GREAT that you can acknowledge your fears of dealing with your child's rigidity and frustration. It is typical that children who have had difficulty in brick and mortar setting need some to a lot of " deschooling " to take place. Parents need time to deschool also. For people who have sensory issues re sound, movement, visual overload, school can be a nightmare as the environment itself is a trigger to stress. Academic learning really doesn't take place, neither does positive socialization, when someone is too stressed. Being in a more quiet home environment, going at his own pace, use of simple visual supports, reduction of distracting stimuli, etc. all contribute to a more positive learning and life experience for some people. Many of us who are able to homeschool, do this because we tried brick and mortar schools and they simply did not work well enough for our children. Not every homeschooler is a wingnut, just as not every brick and mortar parent is (fill in the blank). You and your child have a life-long journey. School is only part of it. The goal of school (whether brick and mortar or homeschool) should be to educate the child for a deeper/richer life. Life is short, modern versions of formal education time is shorter; take time to breath. Priscilla in Kansas (continuing our 5+ years of secular homeschooling) > > The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2010 Report Share Posted June 21, 2010 Adding to this: homeschooling is not a cure. We have always homeschooled, except for a brief stay in Kindy during a move. My daughter is so much like Miranda's son...very rigid, highly prone to meltdowns, easily frustrated, lack of organization. Our days can be very stressful at times. I think that the key is that it doesn't have to last all day. She has a LOT of downtime, and that ability to just go somewhere and be herself without expecttion is very valuable. Also, for children with intellectual gifts, it can be a very productive time. This is when she reads, writes songs and novels, bird watches, draws, or creates a fabulous make believe world. She's now 10, working on grade levels 4-7th, so the workload has grown along with her. I've gradually added more structure to her lessons, and she's doing well with it overall. However, I handpick all the curriculum in order to be certain it fits her special needs and her learning style. I wish I had more advice regarding the therapeutic side of it, but we are still very new to a diagnosis and I honestly have no clue in that regard. I'm considering adding an ABA sort of reward system but I'm not sure how to go about it yet. She needs some services too I'm sure, and we've yet to get that going. But one last thing that I've recently begun to notice; when I am with my child more throughout the day, I can be her advocate. During her times of confusion or frustration, I'm there to explain the situation in ways she can understand and help her to calm down. I also try to help her recognize her own triggers or coping mechanisms so she can eventually be her own advocate. But I'm also in tune to her limits so I don't push her into uncomfortable situations all day long to her breaking point. With everything factored in, I'm convinced that homeschooling is the right thing for us at this time. I'm not anti-school, but I see so many problems in what is a broken system, especially for kids like ours. Kiara From: prisread <prisread@...>Autism and Aspergers Treatment Sent: Mon, June 21, 2010 2:00:53 AMSubject: Re: homeschooling? Miranda, I wanted to add a few things:Visual supports are very helpful in reducing frustration and anxiety. Often there are unrecognized auditory processing problems. Visual reminders reduce confusion,short term memory issues, and can help problems with executive function. They also help keep things consistent and safe for the anxious child. Add the other issues of autism (sensory, motor planning, emotional developmental delay, etc.) and the meltdowns, tantrums, acting out are simply communication that the person is not able to function well and lacks language tools to let us know. There is a saying among speech paths/ABA people that behavior IS communication. I agree. I think parents are pretty hard on themselves for not being able to "get it" the first or 40th time their child doesn't meet society's picture of the well-behaved child. When the child is away from home for hours each day (as in school), valuable parental observation and learning time is lost. I know more about my child because we spend most of the day together. I'm not a rabid homeschooler, but the longer we homeschool, the more sense it makes for this child. There really is less confusion at home for obvious reasons. Not every child thrives in brick and mortar environments, just as not every child thrives in homeschool environment. Your child is lucky that you are considering a different approach to one that is not working.I think it is GREAT that you can acknowledge your fears of dealing with your child's rigidity and frustration. It is typical that children who have had difficulty in brick and mortar setting need some to a lot of "deschooling" to take place. Parents need time to deschool also. For people who have sensory issues re sound, movement, visual overload, school can be a nightmare as the environment itself is a trigger to stress. Academic learning really doesn't take place, neither does positive socialization, when someone is too stressed. Being in a more quiet home environment, going at his own pace, use of simple visual supports, reduction of distracting stimuli, etc. all contribute to a more positive learning and life experience for some people. Many of us who are able to homeschool, do this because we tried brick and mortar schools and they simply did not work well enough for our children. Not every homeschooler is a wingnut, just as not every brick and mortar parent is (fill in the blank). You and your child have a life-long journey. School is only part of it. The goal of school (whether brick and mortar or homeschool) should be to educate the child for a deeper/richer life. Life is short, modern versions of formal education time is shorter; take time to breath.Priscilla in Kansas (continuing our 5+ years of secular homeschooling) >> The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 23, 2010 Report Share Posted June 23, 2010 I was one step away from homeschooling my HF Autistic 5 year old after he got kicked out of Montessori school. I never trusted public schools (I was a former PS teacher) so I always did private preschool, etc. What finally worked for us was a combo of biomed, therapy, and school. Biomedically, he was diagnosed with PANDAS (excessive worrying, OCD, and aggression) and we now treat with IVIG, antibiotics, and homeopathy. Therapeutically, we embraced the DIR/FT approach. We have the best DIR consultant and team in the world who helps me and the community understand his emotional and social well being. School wise, we chose a small Catholic school who embraces our kids. The school has about a third aspergers like children. Our DIR consultant also consults with the school and does frequent in-services about our kids. His report card actually has lines for social growth, emotional development, and life skills. He is the most popular kid in the school (grades K-8) and probably the top of his class...unless another aspie moves into the area It is a marriage made in heaven-finally! HTH, Kersten www.chicagonow.com/fightingautism > > > > The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 23, 2010 Report Share Posted June 23, 2010 Sounds like a wonderful situation you found for him. It will be wonderful when all education gets there! Nina -- Nina Forest autismlearning@... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 23, 2010 Report Share Posted June 23, 2010 Kersten~ I am interested in your approach to schooling- I am about to send my son back to PS after 3 years of homeschooling and attempting to put together a list of modifications to ensure my son's success(will be working with an advocate on this). But I was wondering what IVIG,DIR/FT and DIR consultant were? Thanks for sharing Diane From: Kersten Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 10:48 PM Autism and Aspergers Treatment Subject: Re: homeschooling? I was one step away from homeschooling my HF Autistic 5 year old after he got kicked out of Montessori school. I never trusted public schools (I was a former PS teacher) so I always did private preschool, etc.What finally worked for us was a combo of biomed, therapy, and school. Biomedically, he was diagnosed with PANDAS (excessive worrying, OCD, and aggression) and we now treat with IVIG, antibiotics, and homeopathy. Therapeutically, we embraced the DIR/FT approach. We have the best DIR consultant and team in the world who helps me and the community understand his emotional and social well being. School wise, we chose a small Catholic school who embraces our kids. The school has about a third aspergers like children. Our DIR consultant also consults with the school and does frequent in-services about our kids. His report card actually has lines for social growth, emotional development, and life skills. He is the most popular kid in the school (grades K-8) and probably the top of his class...unless another aspie moves into the area :)It is a marriage made in heaven-finally!HTH,Kerstenwww.chicagonow.com/fightingautism> >> > The reason I'm terrified is because he is so rigid and easily frustrated. He blows up over nothing. I'm just being honest that I find it very hard (and his behaviour is very difficult). But I am doing my best as a parent to try and understand and help him> >>=======Email scanned by PC Tools - No viruses or spyware found.(Email Guard: 7.0.0.18, Virus/Spyware Database: 6.15260)http://free.pctools.com======= =======Email scanned by PC Tools - No viruses or spyware found.(Email Guard: 7.0.0.18, Virus/Spyware Database: 6.15260)http://free.pctools.com======= Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 29, 2010 Report Share Posted June 29, 2010 Miranda, <3 ] - : > If this student is 12th grade senior(in reference to mentioning high school) or any grade level, student is to retake that particular grade over next fall. Homeschooling or student in public or perocial school. It's too important for all to be prepared by adult life all knowledge and education being given. God Bless, Tom (dx'ed AS in adulthood after encephalitis meningitis & seizures by MMR) From: Robbyn Dietsch <robbyn.dietsch@...>Autism and Aspergers Treatment Sent: Thu, June 17, 2010 8:49:47 AMSubject: Re: homeschooling? I don't know about anywhere else, but in Iowa if they don't attend at least half the classes in school they get a GED and not a high school diploma. This bothered me. Anyone else have these issues? From: miranda.flemming <miranda.flemming>Subject: homeschooling?Autism and Aspergers TreatmentDate: Thursday, June 17, 2010, 6:19 AM I have just written a hub (article) about how I am considering homeschooling my AS son. Comments welcome.Mirandahttp://hubpages. com/hub/Why- I-am-Considering -Homeschooling- my-Child Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 29, 2010 Report Share Posted June 29, 2010 Very well stated, Nina! Kiara Re: homeschooling? I do know that it is an individual choice, within your family, about homeschooling or public school. But I homechooled for 20 years; and I happen to like it a lot, esp for autism kids. .. There was a time when this was a homeschooling loop; and now, it's predominantly what to do about public school. Now, the retake next fall, that must be state specific. With my own daughter, being in a very loosely structured states & one with alternative options for students who could not do regular curriculum, we were able to design what worked for us. And in homeschooling, yes, I and my friends began to structure what our kids needed for life before graduation-- our regular friends had their kids start with volunteer jobs they arranged, or had friends pay them to do work in their home. .. With Fawn, I started out having her go set days to put away toys at our favorite small downtown toy store. Our friends kids began taking practice tests to succeed at entrance exams, and such. And began talking about relationship issues. .. But not in all states does a child have to make up anything. . . In homeschooling, it can be very individually tailored. Kind of like Montessori practices in private schools. Cover certain topics, but allow the child to use materials available, ask questions, go to an expert for information, and such. I happened to grow up in private experimental schools with small classes that allowed us a lot of independence to learn on our own, with resources and materials and people available. And I am frustrated with the rigidity of the public school system. And autism aside, I was very happy for the alternative of homeschooling. It allows me to treat Fawn safely and respectully, maximize her strengths, include her more in my life and mine in hers, give her what she needs physically, give her the attitude " I can, " and teach what we believe in all day long as opportunities present themselves. Her education is so much more broad. When she was small, I couldn't imagine putting her with someone who didn't care about her 8 hours of the day plus school bus time. She doesn't get bullied. She doesn't lose competing against others with different circumstances, more acceptable to society's " chosen " , and is given a lot of self confidence. It has required of us going around or finding ways to protect ourselves againt whatever the current public school hysteria is-- what our kids won't get. An autism dad wrote in a book, Running with , about what he calls the " homeschooling police everywhere. " And doing extra work to prove what we are doing. . . But it was well worth it. Nina On Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:08 -0700, " Tom H. " <tomthetwin@...> wrote: Miranda, <3 ] - : > If this student is 12th grade senior(in reference to mentioning high school) or any grade level, student is to retake that particular grade over next fall. Homeschooling or student in public or perocial school. It's too important for all to be prepared by adult life all knowledge and educa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 29, 2010 Report Share Posted June 29, 2010 I do know that it is an individual choice, within your family, about homeschooling or public school. But I homechooled for 20 years; and I happen to like it a lot, esp for autism kids. .. There was a time when this was a homeschooling loop; and now, it's predominantly what to do about public school. Now, the retake next fall, that must be state specific. With my own daughter, being in a very loosely structured states & one with alternative options for students who could not do regular curriculum, we were able to design what worked for us. And in homeschooling, yes, I and my friends began to structure what our kids needed for life before graduation-- our regular friends had their kids start with volunteer jobs they arranged, or had friends pay them to do work in their home. .. With Fawn, I started out having her go set days to put away toys at our favorite small downtown toy store. Our friends kids began taking practice tests to succeed at entrance exams, and such. And began talking about relationship issues. .. But not in all states does a child have to make up anything. . . In homeschooling, it can be very individually tailored. Kind of like Montessori practices in private schools. Cover certain topics, but allow the child to use materials available, ask questions, go to an expert for information, and such. I happened to grow up in private experimental schools with small classes that allowed us a lot of independence to learn on our own, with resources and materials and people available. And I am frustrated with the rigidity of the public school system. And autism aside, I was very happy for the alternative of homeschooling. It allows me to treat Fawn safely and respectully, maximize her strengths, include her more in my life and mine in hers, give her what she needs physically, give her the attitude " I can, " and teach what we believe in all day long as opportunities present themselves. Her education is so much more broad. When she was small, I couldn't imagine putting her with someone who didn't care about her 8 hours of the day plus school bus time. She doesn't get bullied. She doesn't lose competing against others with different circumstances, more acceptable to society's " chosen " , and is given a lot of self confidence. It has required of us going around or finding ways to protect ourselves againt whatever the current public school hysteria is-- what our kids won't get. An autism dad wrote in a book, Running with , about what he calls the " homeschooling police everywhere. " And doing extra work to prove what we are doing. . . But it was well worth it. Nina On Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:08 -0700, " Tom H. " <tomthetwin@...> wrote: Miranda, <3 ] - : > If this student is 12th grade senior(in reference to mentioning high school) or any grade level, student is to retake that particular grade over next fall. Homeschooling or student in public or perocial school. It's too important for all to be prepared by adult life all knowledge and education being given. God Bless, Tom (dx'ed AS in adulthood after encephalitis meningitis & seizures by MMR) From: Robbyn Dietsch <robbyn.dietsch > Autism and Aspergers Treatment Sent: Thu, June 17, 2010 8:49:47 AM Subject: Re: homeschooling? I don't know about anywhere else, but in Iowa if they don't attend at least half the classes in school they get a GED and not a high school diploma. This bothered me. Anyone else have these issues? From: miranda.flemming <miranda.flemming> Subject: homeschooling? Autism and Aspergers Treatment Date: Thursday, June 17, 2010, 6:19 AM I have just written a hub (article) about how I am considering homeschooling my AS son. Comments welcome. Miranda FastMail.FM WARNING: URL text and host don't match, possible phishing attempt. URL disabled. Original URL='http://hubpages.com/hub/Why-I-am-Considering-Homeschooling-my-Child'.'>http://hubpages.com/hub/Why-I-am-Considering-Homeschooling-my-Child'. Original text='http://hubpages. com/hub/Why- I-am-Considering -Homeschooling- my-Child'. For more information on phishing click here. -- Nina Forest autismlearning@... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 14, 2011 Report Share Posted December 14, 2011 Just wondering if homeschooling is an option for a child with an IEP since the school seems incapable of giving my child an education? And since I will not be able to work because I would need to stay home to educate him, would they have to pay me? It would be cheaper for them than sending him to a private school. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 15, 2011 Report Share Posted December 15, 2011 Before you decide, I'd suggest looking up the homeschooling association in your area. No one will pay you to do this. You will have expenses for materials, etc. A small amount of educational expenses might be tax deductible. Every state has different rules about homeschooling. Last I heard, which was a while ago (the kids of all my homeschooling friends are grown), IL required that you teach in English and register with them as a private school. Sounds silly, but that's the way it's structured. The local homeschooling association can tell you what the current IL rules are and suggest to you where to buy good textbooks and learning materials. These places might help you find local groups in your area: http://homeschoolcentral.com/support/illinois_homeschool.htm http://illinoishomeeducation.com/home.htm Among my friends, I've known probably a dozen or so families who have homeschooled. In one family's case, one of the kids had DD. In the case of only two families, the kids were homeschooled all the way through high school. -Gail ________________________________ From: tamie_pryor <tamie_pryor@...> IPADDUnite Sent: Wednesday, December 14, 2011 3:42 PM Subject: Homeschooling? Just wondering if homeschooling is an option for a child with an IEP since the school seems incapable of giving my child an education? And since I will not be able to work because I would need to stay home to educate him, would they have to pay me? It would be cheaper for them than sending him to a private school. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 15, 2011 Report Share Posted December 15, 2011 I know special ed children who are in private school (paid by parents) can get their therapies from the public school. You may want to check with the special ed director of your district about speech, OT, PT, adaptive PE, etc. > > Before you decide, I'd suggest looking up the homeschooling association in your area. > > No one will pay you to do this. You will have expenses for materials, etc. A small amount of educational expenses might be tax deductible. > > Every state has different rules about homeschooling. Last I heard, which was a while ago (the kids of all my homeschooling friends are grown), IL required that you teach in English and register with them as a private school. Sounds silly, but that's the way it's structured. > > > The local homeschooling association can tell you what the current IL rules are and suggest to you where to buy good textbooks and learning materials. > > These places might help you find local groups in your area: > http://homeschoolcentral.com/support/illinois_homeschool.htm > http://illinoishomeeducation.com/home.htm > > > Among my friends, I've known probably a dozen or so families who have homeschooled. In one family's case, one of the kids had DD. In the case of only two families, the kids were homeschooled all the way through high school. > > > -Gail > > > > ________________________________ > From: tamie_pryor <tamie_pryor@...> > IPADDUnite > Sent: Wednesday, December 14, 2011 3:42 PM > Subject: Homeschooling? > > > > Just wondering if homeschooling is an option for a child with an IEP since the school seems incapable of giving my child an education? And since I will not be able to work because I would need to stay home to educate him, would they have to pay me? > > It would be cheaper for them than sending him to a private school. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 15, 2011 Report Share Posted December 15, 2011 Thank you Ellen, Gail and Jean. Not sure that I will do this, but was just wondering about it. I am just feeling very frustrated. Tamie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 16, 2011 Report Share Posted December 16, 2011 The school district will not pay you. Your child will be entitled to services under a " service " plan, the same as a student in a private school. Many school districts will provide supportive therapies at the school since it is more cost effective than to pay you a cash equivalent of the therapies. Illinois treats home schooled children as in a private school. check out http://www.ws.net/homeschooler/NonpublicSpEd.html This site contains many of the legal source documents on home schooling in Illinois. http://www.ws.net/homeschooler/homeschoolresources.html -- > > Just wondering if homeschooling is an option for a child with an IEP since the school seems incapable of giving my child an education? And since I will not be able to work because I would need to stay home to educate him, would they have to pay me? > > It would be cheaper for them than sending him to a private school. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.