Join the conversation as we chat through homeschooling outside of the box learners. Mom, you don’t need to be afraid of the labels.
I am excited to sit down with Cynthia from Inside Our Normal and chat through what it means to have out of the box learners. She is homeschool mom of 3 out of the box kids and writes at Inside Our Normal. Her writings give families practical support to embrace each child’s unique learning style.
In the interview, Cynthia gives a ton of practical advice on getting a diagnosis, picking curriculum, planning for future education and career paths.
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Homeschooling and Out of the Box Learners
When it comes to outside of the box learners, I think this is one area where the homeschooling community could and should be strengthened. Whether you have out of the box learners or not, you can learn so much from this interview.
This post is just a recap of the interview. So more like the Cliff Notes. You don’t want to miss all the practical information that Cynthia shares. Be sure to listen to the full interview.
Let’s get into the show.
Life and Homeschooling with Out of the Box Kids
Cynthia writes about unique learning styles because she describes her family as, “We are all a little bit outside of the box.” From autism to ADHD to giftedness to anxiety. It is best describe as out of the box.
She has three kids and has been homeschooling for about 10 years. A couple of her kids did dip their toes in the water of public school, but at this point homeschooling is the best fit for all of them.
What does it Mean to Have Out of the Box Learners
Her homeschool is very unique and individually driven. However, they do homeschool as a family and learn together. She focuses on literature, Charlotte Mason, and unit studies. These are the materials they use as they learn together. There are a lot of hands-on projects and read-alouds.
Yes, we both have a confession when it comes to read-alouds. I let other people read to the kids with ABCMouse. Listen to the episode to hear it.
You don’t Need to be Afraid of the Labels
I asked Cynthia if they have received official diagnoses for all the kids. Finding out if your child has a learning disability can be a very hot topic in the homeschool community. It can cause a lot of controversy and divides.
I really appreciated Cynthia’s perspective, and her advice that you don’t need to be afraid of a label. That label can actually bring you a lot of power. It can also bring your kids the freedom to know that they aren’t broken.
Yes, you can throw out grade levels too. Are you feeling like a rebel mom. You can homeschool beyond the books.
Listen to the episode to hear more.
Is it Important to Pursue an IEP?
Even though Cynthia is homeschooling her kids, she is pursuing an IEP with the local school district. She offers some considerations on why this is important for her family. Whether you pursue an IEP or not, she gives some practical advice on why you should for future education success. It is great information to hear and keep in mind, as you pursue the best education path for your child.
Listen to the episode to hear her practical advice and positive aspects of getting an IEP. It is very practical advice.
The Emotional Rollercoaster for Moms
Although you received a diagnosis, the one thing to keep in mind is that nothing has changed about your child. There are still the same person. Even though you received a diagnosis, your child is still the same kid they were before receiving it. Nothing is different.
You now have the power to access the right resources because you have that label. The diagnosis can open doors for medically necessary interventions, specific therapies, or educational interventions.
You get the access to the resources to help your kid, but your child isn’t broken. Your child is still the amazing kid.
Conclusion: Homeschooling Outside of the Box
Listen to the full episode for practical tips on how to pick curriculum, pull resources, and design a learning style that works for your family. Cynthia provides a place of help and encouragement for families who struggle to fit in, and who learn outside of the box.
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