Episodes

  • Why Reminders and Timers Don't Always Work for Kids: time blindness, ADHD, and Working Memory

    Why Reminders and Timers Don't Always Work for Kids: time blindness, ADHD, and Working Memory
    Oct 15 2026

    If your child struggles with time management, can't seem to transition from one activity to the next, or you're constantly reminding them to "hurry up" or "stay on task," this episode is for you. For homeschool parents navigating ADHD, sensory processing, or executive function differences at home, questions about "time blindness" and practical solutions for daily routines naturally come up—especially as kids grow and demands change.

    In this episode of The OT is IN, I'm joined by Dr. Amy Moore, a cognitive psychologist and ADHD parent, about what time blindness really is (and isn't), how it shows up for neurodivergent kids, and what actually makes a difference. We'll share everyday examples—like what happens when a child is told to "just clean your room"—and unpack why strategies like timers don't always work on their own. Listeners will come away with a more nuanced understanding of why struggles with time are so common and some effective, flexible ways to support kids as they learn about time in real life.

    In This Episode You'll Hear About

    • What "time blindness" means, why it's not a clinical diagnosis, and why it matters to families with neurodivergent kids

    • The connection between time management, working memory, processing speed, and emotions—especially during transitions

    • Why tools like visual timers and analog clocks help some kids, and why they aren't always enough on their own

    • The importance of building a "sense of time" through games, visual schedules, estimation activities, and concrete experience

    • Why emotional connection and collaborative problem-solving matter more than any single strategy for transitions and routines

    • How to individualize remediation (underlying skills) and compensation (external supports) based on each child's needs—without aiming to make every brain "typical"

    • What's developmentally realistic to expect about time skills in early childhood, elementary years, and adolescence

    Links and Resources From Today's Show

    • Hearts on ADHD Parenting: Brain-Based, Grace-Filled Strategies for Raising Kids with Big Emotions and Challenging Behaviors by Dr. Amy Moore amymoorephd.com

    • LearningRx World Headquarters: learningrx.com/homeschool

    • Dr. Amy Moore's podcast: www.TheBrainyMoms.com

    Thank you to our title sponsor Lovevery. As an occupational therapist, I appreciate resources that recognize play as an important part of childhood development rather than something separate from learning. Learn more about Lovevery here Use the code homeschoolOT10 for 10% off.

    Connect With Our Guest, Amy Moore

    Dr. Amy Moore is a cognitive psychologist, clinical researcher, board certified Christian counselor, TEDx speaker, host of the Brainy Moms podcast, an ADHD mom, and a mom with ADHD. She is the Director of Psychology & Research for LearningRx in Colorado Springs, CO at the headquarters of the largest network of cognitive training centers in the world. Her ground-breaking neuroplasticity research has been published in peer-reviewed medical and psychology journals and presented at conferences around the country. She has a master's degree in early childhood education, a PhD in psychology, and 30 years of experience working with children and families. Dr. Amy and her husband Jeff have been married for 27 years and have 3 grown sons.

    • Listen To Her Podcast
    • Connect With Amy On Instagram
    • Freebies!
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    49 mins
  • When Capable Kids Can't Get Started: ADHD Task Initiation with Lori Flynn

    When Capable Kids Can't Get Started: ADHD Task Initiation with Lori Flynn
    Oct 1 2026
    Your child knows how to do the work. They understand the assignment. They may even tell you, "I know!" So why can't they get started? In this episode of The OT is IN, I'm joined by occupational therapist Lori Flynn, founder of OT4ADHD, to talk about ADHD task initiation and the gap that can happen between knowing what to do and actually doing it. Lori introduces the NICE framework: Novelty, Interest, Challenge, and Extreme Urgency. We talk about practical ways parents can use these ideas to help children get started without lowering expectations. From adding a little novelty to a familiar routine, to connecting learning with a child's interests, to creating small but meaningful deadlines, this conversation is full of ideas you can try in your homeschool. We also talk about why a strategy that works today may not work forever, how too many choices can create another executive functioning demand, and why helping children discover what works for their brains is an important step toward self-advocacy. In this episode, you'll hear about: Why knowing what to do doesn't always mean a child can get started Task initiation and executive functioning in ADHD Lori's NICE framework: Novelty, Interest, Challenge, and Extreme Urgency How to add novelty without losing the predictability of your homeschool routine Ways to connect schoolwork with your child's interests Using a just-right challenge to encourage initiation Why urgency can help and how to create small, critical deadlines without relying on last-minute stress Breaking large tasks into smaller, actionable steps Why some strategies lose their effectiveness over time Helping children recognize and communicate the supports that work for them Try the NICE Framework at Home I've created a free companion guide to help you take what you hear in this episode and apply it to your own homeschool. Use the Moving From Knowing to Doing: NICE Guide to identify a dreaded task and brainstorm ways to add novelty, interest, challenge, or urgency. Download the NICE Guide: Moving from Knowing to Doing- NICE Guide Thank You to Our Sponsor, CTCMath Thank you to CTCMath for sponsoring this episode of The OT is IN. When we're thinking about task initiation, it helps to look not only at the child, but also at how the work is presented. A long or complicated assignment can add another barrier when a child is already having trouble getting started. That's one reason CTCMath has worked well in our homeschool. The lessons are short and clearly organized, so my child can see what needs to be done without facing an entire page of problems at once. That doesn't make task initiation challenges disappear, but it can help make the first step feel more manageable. Sometimes we don't need to lower the expectation. We need to think differently about the support. Try CTCMath free HomeschoolOT 40% off CTCMath discount Connect With Lori Flynn Lori Flynn is a practicing school-based occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience and the founder of OT4ADHD, a platform dedicated to supporting students with ADHD through professional development and actionable resources. She specializes in helping misunderstood learners succeed by shifting the focus from "trying harder" to trying differently, Her knowledge and passion surrounding ADHD is shaped by extensive ongoing continuing education and lived experience.Learn more about Lori and find her ADHD resources at OT4ADHD: Lori's WebsiteConnect with Lori On FacebookConnect With Lori On Instagram Continue Learning With HomeschoolOT Join The OT Insiders Membership Inside OT is INsiders, we take ideas from the podcast and talk about how they apply to real homeschool days, with practical applications and live Q&A. Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersWhat Are Executive Funtioning Skills?Field Trips Can Build Executive FunctioningEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 43: Collaborative Problem-Solving in Education and ParentingEpisode 60: Tackling Childhood Anxiety: How Occupational Therapy Can HelpEpisode 66: The Power Of Declarative LanguageEpisode 71: Raising Resilient Learners
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    40 mins
  • Why Cursive Is Making a Comeback (And What It Means for Your Child)

    Why Cursive Is Making a Comeback (And What It Means for Your Child)
    Sep 24 2026
    Is cursive handwriting still important for kids? And when choosing between cursive, print, and typing, does it really matter how our children put their thoughts on the page? In this episode of The OT is IN, Sarah Collins, MSOT, OTR/L, talks with homeschool mom, educator, and Grooved Learning founder Jenna Coleman about why cursive is making a comeback and what handwriting can contribute to learning, memory, and confidence. Together, Sarah and Jenna explore the differences between cursive, print, and typing, what research tells us about handwriting and learning, and why handwriting is about much more than neat penmanship. They also discuss explicit handwriting instruction, multisensory handwriting practice, and how tactile experiences can help children build skills without turning handwriting into busywork. For homeschool families whose children struggle with writing, Sarah also shares why handwriting practice and written expression sometimes need to be separated. Narration, dictation, and speech to text can give children ways to communicate what they know while they continue developing handwriting as its own skill. In this episode: Why cursive handwriting is making a comebackWhat research tells us about handwriting and the brainCursive, print, and typing as different tools for learningWhy handwriting requires explicit instruction and practiceHow multisensory handwriting activities can support learningWhy meaningful practice matters more than busyworkWhen to separate handwriting from written expressionHow narration and technology can support children who struggle with writing Thank you to our title sponsor, Lovevery. Lovevery's Reading Skill Set brings hands on learning into early reading through phonics based games, books, and activities designed to build reading skills through play. Homeschool families can use the Reading Skill Set alongside their existing reading curriculum. You can get 10% off the Reading Skillset using the code HomeschoolOT10. Check it out here. Links and Resources From Today's Show From HomeschoolOT Join the OT is IN Insiders A Path to Thoughtful Learning: A Guide to NarrationUnderstanding the Handwriting Journey: Tools and Techniques for HomeschoolersBalancing Tech and Handwriting: Supporting Your Child's GrowthConnect with HomeschoolOT on Instagram Connect With Jenna Coleman Explore Grooved Learning and save 15% with code OTisin15Connect with Jenna on Instagram Handwriting Research and Resources Handwriting Leads to Widespread Brain Activity Handwriting Rewires Your BrainThe Science of CursiveLearningRx Today's Sponsor Thank you to Lovevery for sponsoring this episode of The OT is IN. Explore Lovevery and save 10% on the Reading Skill Set with code HomeschoolOT10. Connect With Our Guest, Jenna Coleman Jenna Coleman is a former classroom educator, homeschool mom of three, and the founder of Grooved Learning. Although she holds a Master's in Education, Jenna says homeschooling her own children has taught her some of her most valuable lessons about how children learn. Jenna originally started her business as Graceful By Design before expanding the educational side into Grooved Learning. She creates short, intentional resources that combine tactile learning with meaningful practice across subjects. Her goal is to help children build skills while also developing a genuine love of learning. Explore Grooved Learning and save 15% with code OTisin15. Connect with Jenna on Instagram
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    33 mins
  • Spotting Hidden Roadblocks to Learning: what handwriting can tell us

    Spotting Hidden Roadblocks to Learning: what handwriting can tell us
    Sep 10 2026
    If your child has practiced handwriting but it still seems harder than expected, it may be time to look beyond what is happening on the page. In this episode of The OT is IN, Sarah is joined by fellow occupational therapist, homeschool mom, and OT is INsiders cohost Tiffany Parsons. Together, they explore handwriting from an OT perspective, looking at the many motor and cognitive skills that work together when a child writes. Sarah and Tiffany talk about what parents can observe during handwriting, including posture, pencil control, effort, coordination, and body positioning. They also discuss why it can be helpful to look for patterns beyond writing. How does your child manage utensils, fasteners, stairs, playground equipment, or activities that require both sides of the body to work together? The goal isn't to turn homeschool parents into occupational therapists. It's to help you become a curious observer of your child, recognize patterns across everyday activities, and know when bringing another professional onto your team might be helpful. In This Episode You'll Hear About • Why handwriting requires both motor and cognitive skills • Why the skills involved in handwriting don't always develop at the same rate • What Sarah and Tiffany observe when a child is having difficulty with handwriting • How posture, balance, bilateral coordination, visual skills, and movement patterns can affect participation • Why it's helpful to notice patterns across handwriting, self care, play, and other daily activities • Everyday activities that can give parents clues about coordination and motor skills • Simple ways to incorporate whole body movement into your homeschool day • When it may be helpful to seek support from an occupational therapist • Why building a team doesn't take away from your role as the expert on your child Links and Resources From Today's Show Resources from HomeschoolOT Join The OT Insiders MembershipGet The Primitive Reflexes Resource GuideHow To Think About Handwriting GuideMaking Sense Of The Handwriting Puzzle Course Connect with Our Guest and Sponsor Check Out Our Title Sponsor CTC Math for 50% offCTC Math Free TrialTiffany Parsons on Facebook Related episodes of the OT is IN Episode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting SuccessEpisode 21: Exploring Primitive Reflexes: From Birth to IntegrationEpisode 22: Supporting Children Through Play-Based Reflex IntegrationEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better HandwritingEpisode 24: Understanding the Handwriting Journey: Tools and Techniques for HomeschoolersEpisode 38: Practical Learning Tools from a Homeschool Graduate: Sensory Kits for Homeschool SuccessEpisode 55: Understanding Dysgraphia: Tools and Strategies for HomeschoolersEpisode 56: Unlocking Writing Confidence in Children: The Role of Personal ExpressionEpisode 77: Turning Letters Into Play: How Doodling Builds Handwriting Skills with Sarah MuldoonEpisode 78: How Movement Influences Learning: OT Insights for Parents Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here. Connect With Our Guest, Tiffany Parsons Tiffany is a pastors wife, bonus mom, twin mom, homeschool mom and pediatric occupational therapist. She is a 2014 graduate from West Virginia University. She is passionate about educating others on what occupational therapy is and how it can benefit the lives of not only children but the family as a whole.
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    32 mins
  • Helping Kids Name What's happening Inside

    Helping Kids Name What's happening Inside
    Aug 27 2026
    If you're a homeschool parent who's ever wondered why your child has trouble noticing hunger, thirst, needing the bathroom, or even pinpointing their emotions, this episode may help you look at things differently. Many parents are familiar with sensory challenges, but interoception—sometimes called the eighth sense—isn't often discussed outside of occupational therapy. Understanding interoception can change the way you see emotional regulation struggles, help you respond to meltdowns with more empathy, and offer kids more meaningful ways to communicate what's happening inside their bodies. In this episode of The OT is IN, Sarah is joined by occupational therapist and interoception expert Kelly Mahler to explore what interoception really is, why it matters for homeschoolers, and what it looks like to help children put words to their inner experiences. You'll hear practical ways parents can model paying attention to internal cues, why validating a child's unique body language and feelings matters, and how this knowledge can lay the groundwork for self-advocacy and emotional growth at home. Real-life examples, like a child whose "buzzy tongue" signaled anxiety, make these ideas accessible and adaptable—even if the labels and strategies are different for every family. Thanks to Lovevery for sponsoring today's show. You can get 10% off the Reading Skillset using the code HomeschoolOT10. Check it out here. In this episode you'll hear about: What interoception is, why it's sometimes called the "eighth sense," and how it influences everything from hunger and thirst to anxiety and self-awareness The connection between body signals, emotions, and self-regulation, and why traditional emotion charts may not work for every child Simple, real-world ways parents can model noticing and narrating their own internal states to help children build language and awareness Why validating a child's unique ways of describing body sensations ("noodley brain" or "buzzy tongue") supports trust, communication, and growth How interoception awareness links to language development, self-advocacy, and feeling safe in sharing inner experiences Practical tips for getting started with kids of all ages—even teens—and adapting sensory activities to fit your family and comfort level An overview of Kelly Mahler's interoception curriculum and how it can be used flexibly within a homeschool environment Links and Resources From Today's Show Make sure to join our OT INsiders Membership HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersConnect With Kelly On IG HereConnect with Kelly On Linkedin Here The Interoception Curriculum Noticing My Body Signals Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX Website Related OT is IN episodes Episode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling Perspective Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline SantangeloEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in HomeschoolEpisode 16: Navigating the Interoceptive Sense: Insights and Strategies for Parents Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha BerryEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 48: Transforming Fashion for Sensory Needs: An Interview with Julia, Adaptive Apparel Pioneer Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Rest Episode 59: Translating OT Concepts: Creating a Children's Book for Sensory Processing Awareness Episode 72: Navigating Sibling Sensory Needs and Homeschooling Wins and Fails Episode 80: Raising Resilient Kids Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest, Kelly Mahler Kelly Mahler is an award-winning occupational therapist, author, and interoception groupie known for her boundless curiosity and empathetic approach. Holding a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, she has served school-aged children and adults for over 22 years. Kelly is author of 12 resources including The Interoception Curriculum, now used in over 30 countries worldwide. She enjoys speaking internationally on interoception, neuro-affirming practices, and playful strategies for inner exploration using a lens of curiosity, validation and empathy.
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    32 mins
  • What I Wish I Knew When I Started Homeschooling- Dad Version

    What I Wish I Knew When I Started Homeschooling- Dad Version
    Aug 13 2026
    If you have ever wondered whether you're meeting all your child's needs as a homeschool parent, or worried that you might miss out on something important by doing things differently from traditional school, this conversation is for you. Today we're examining what success actually looks like in homeschooling, especially when it doesn't follow the standard playbook. In our family, hallmark milestones have looked different, friendships grow from unexpected places, and learning shifts as needs change. As we talk through questions like socialization, academic benchmarks, and what it means to "do homeschooling right," you'll hear how our expectations have changed—and why that change brings relief, not regret. This topic matters for homeschoolers because so many decisions are shaped by assumptions about what is normal and necessary. When we let go of rigid timelines and the pressure to replicate school, it creates space to focus on strengths, support challenges, and personalize the learning journey—without losing sight of connection or growth. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction and Family IntroductionsInitial Perceptions and Misconceptions About HomeschoolingFrequent comment: "But you're so normal"Misunderstandings and mind shifts about homeschooling from othersResponses to social perceptions (e.g., from sports teammates)Need or lack thereof to justify being homeschooledSkepticism and Early Concerns from the Homeschool DadBrandon Collins' initial skepticism and concernsReflection on Years of Homeschooling and Perspective ChangesNine years of homeschooling experienceEvolution from skepticism to happiness with the processDifferences between homeschool 'milestones' and public school experiencesStudent Experience: Socialization, Friendships, and OpportunitiesAnnabelle's sources of friendship (church, co-ops, sports)Unique opportunities available due to homeschooling (early college credits, job flexibility)Flexibility and Customization in HomeschoolingSurprises and realizations about flexibility in scheduling and learningVacations and educational opportunities outside of traditional school schedulesSports and extracurricular participation as a homeschooled studentAdapting Curriculum and Parental ApproachesNon-traditional, tailored approach (not just recreating public school at home)Adapting and switching between different educational programs and methodsStudent thoughts on curriculum changes and accommodationsFamily Dynamics and Practical MomentsDeeper Challenges and Difficulties in the Homeschooling JourneyParental patience and encouragement (mantras, support)Preparation for College and Life SkillsPersonal organization and spreadsheet skillsFlexibility in rescheduling and managing workloadFinal Thoughts and Advice to Other FamiliesBrandon Collins: Encouragement to trust the process, patience, and the value of course correction Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersJoin The OT InsidersCheck 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 Sibling Sensory Needs and Homeschooling Wins and Fails Episode 75: Teaching Kids Healthy Habits: Building Lifelong Wellness Episode 81: Understanding Social Pressures and Masking in Kids Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here. Connect With Our Guest, Brandon Collins Brandon is my husband and the wonderful father to our children. You can connect with him here at Sarah@homeschoolot.com
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    25 mins
  • Resetting Expectations for the New Homeschool Year/ what I wish I knew as a new homeschool parent

    Resetting Expectations for the New Homeschool Year/ what I wish I knew as a new homeschool parent
    Jul 23 2026
    We're taking a clear look at what it really means to trust your instincts as a homeschool parent—while also navigating the pressure to measure up to systems and expectations that don't fit your child or your family. You'll hear directly about how to recognize when outside pressures are pulling you off course, how to distinguish between real needs and the fear of "falling behind," and why embracing a flexible, child-centered approach leads to more meaningful learning and stronger relationships. This isn't about finding a perfect method or escaping all doubts. It's about understanding that your context, your family, and your child's unique development are the true foundation of a successful homeschool—no matter what anyone else says or what the comparison trap tries to tell you. Thanks to Lovevery for sponsoring today's show. You can get 10% off the Reading Skillset using the code HomeschoolOT10. Check it out here. In this episode you'll hear about: Starting the Homeschooling JourneyInitial resistance to homeschoolingSearching for alternatives (private school, crunching numbers)Detail on work-life balance while freelancing and parentingUsing existing first grade workbooks during transitionEarly attempts to find community without social media (library searches, bulletin boards)Evolving Homeschool MethodsHow long initial workbook approach lastedBalancing working from home and homeschooling with help from a babysitterChallenges with babysitter's reactions and eventual switch to deschoolingMove to field trips, classes, and experiential learningGradual phasing in of curriculum "scaffolding" methodContinuing to phase in/out curriculum as a traditionTrusting Parenting and Teaching InstinctsDistinguishing between teaching background and homeschooling instinctsTimes when teaching background hindered home educationResponding to outside pressures versus trusting instinctsEmphasizing adjustment based on child's needs and family environmentReflection on how "dumping" too much at once lead to family stressHandling Negative Feedback and External JudgmentEarly defensiveness vs. later confidenceTypes of critics: curious, concerned, and judgmentalStrategies for responding to each groupPersonal stories: teacher confrontation, family and community criticismKey refrains: "This is what's best for our family"Importance of openness and humilityHomeschool Comparison and the "Falling Behind" FearThe tendency to compare progress to age/grade normsAsynchronous development in neurodivergent and gifted kidsPrioritizing relationship over academic performanceGaps in learning (examples: writing, citation skills)Handling gaps as part of a lifelong learning processReflections on Regret and Parental ImperfectionChildren pointing out what they missed in homeschoolingThe inevitability of regrets in all types of schooling and parentingMaintaining parent-child connection as a core valueAdvice: make the best decisions possible in the momentSocialization and Relationship BuildingAddressing the "socialization" question—a common concern for homeschoolersEarly strategies for finding peers and forming friendshipsRole of extracurriculars (e.g., theater, Girl Scouts) and neighborhood connectionsImpact of the pandemic and moving on social opportunitiesSpecific challenges for neurodivergent kids and non-joinersImportance of parental initiative in finding opportunitiesDistinction between opportunity and outcome in forming friendships Links and Resources From Today's Show Join the OT INsiders HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersColleen's Website Raising Lifelong LearnersRaising Lifelong Learners PodcastConnect With Colleen On Instagram Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX WebsiteEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha BerryEpisode 27: Preserving Childhood in a Digital World: Greta Eskridge's Expertise for Families Episode 41: Building Your Support Network as a Homeschooling Parent Especially during the holiday season Episode 46: Navigating Homeschool Priorities with Amy Sloan: From Family Dynamics to Crisis Management Episode 49: Connection Over Curriculum: Building Strong Bonds in Homeschooling Episode 69: Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It Episode 80: Raising Resilient Kids Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest, Colleen Kessler Colleen Kessler is an author, educator, podcaster, and international speaker known for her strengths-based, child-focused approach to homeschooling. With degrees in education and gifted studies, she specializes in the social and emotional development of neurodivergent children. Colleen ...
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • How to Raise Expectations Without Power Struggles in Your Homeschool

    How to Raise Expectations Without Power Struggles in Your Homeschool
    Jul 9 2026
    In this episode you'll hear about: Defining Success and Challenges in HomeschoolingEncouragement for parents to define "success" for their own familiesRecognition that listeners may be pursuing a nontraditional educational pathParental questions about raising expectations without causing power strugglesSarah Collins's current family homeschooling dynamics (older children graduating or not homeschooled, youngest still at home)Understanding the Roots of Power StrugglesParents balancing desire for independence/responsibility with understanding individual childrenCommon research interests in neurodiversity, learning differences, and diagnosesThe challenge of distinguishing when to support, accept, or expect growthExpectations exceeding the child's current skill setThe child ready for more independence than the parent is comfortable withEnvironment not supporting the child's success (focus on method over needs)Balancing Acceptance and ExpectationImportance of finding a middle ground between acceptance and expectationRisks of having only acceptance or only expectation (limited growth vs. frustration/conflict)First Mismatch: Expectations Ahead of Skills"Is this a skill problem or a will problem?"—reframing perceived defianceDetailed analysis using writing as an example: Potential motor, cognitive, or social-emotional challengesMisinterpretations leading to mislabeling skill deficits as character issues Importance of curiosity and skill identification for productive responsesSecond Mismatch: Independence and OwnershipStruggles when children want more independence than parents givePersonal example: child's new responsibility for a pet snakeParental tendency to take on ownership and responsibility that should belong to childrenMicromanaging vs. micro-noticing; consequences for child developmentThe importance of clear ownership and natural consequencesWhen parents give responsibilities before children are ready (e.g. technology/phones)Power struggles tied to misplaced responsibilityHow assumptions about learning environments create unnecessary struggles (e.g., sitting at desks, taking notes)Son's late literacy development and eventual academic successAsking correct questions: what is the learning outcome versus the method?Flexibility in reading methods—standing, listening, moving while learningMain point: focus on outcomes, adjust methods as neededOccupational Therapy Perspective on Challenging TasksOT's role: breaking down tasks, identifying underlying skill gapsParents are not expected to have all the answers—value of another perspectiveOrigin and ongoing purpose of Homeschool OT coaching and support Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersJoin The OT Insiders WaitlistCheck Out Our Title Sponsor CTC MathCTC Math Free TrialChores For Skill Builders BlogFace to Face Connections In A Screen To Screen World BookEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting SuccessEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha BerryEpisode 27: Preserving Childhood in a Digital World: Greta Eskridge's Expertise for Families Episode 70: Tackling Homeschool Guilt and Finding Your Own Path with Kelly Edwards Episode 74: Navigating the Teen Years: Building Connection and Independence at Home Episode 81: Understanding Social Pressures and Masking in Kids Episode 86: Balancing Acceptance and Expectation: Building Executive Functioning in Homeschooling and Parenting Episode 88: Making Literacy Feel Natural in Your Everyday Life Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here.
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    36 mins