Understanding Task Initiation in Neurodivergent Homeschoolers

If you tuned into this week’s episode, you know we’re in the thick of our executive function series—and this time, we took a deep dive into a challenge so many neurodivergent kiddos (and their parents!) know all too well: getting started.

Task initiation can feel impossible for kids who are gifted, twice-exceptional, ADHD, autistic, anxious, or just generally outside-the-box thinkers. They might be able to talk your ear off about their passions, but ask them to start a five-minute worksheet, and it’s like hitting a brick wall. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: your child isn’t broken, and neither are you. Their brain just needs some extra scaffolding and gentle strategies—and that’s exactly what we covered in this week’s episode.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Start small for big wins: Break tasks into "micro steps" or “bricks.” Even something as simple as writing the date can be the first win that propels kids forward.
• Audit and reduce friction: Quick 5-minute “friction audits” help you and your child identify what's holding them back—be it sensory needs, unclear instructions, or missing tools—and address it before frustration builds.
• Model and scaffold for independence: By using techniques like body doubling (working in parallel), giving clear “done statements,” or offering guided choices, you’re not just helping them now—you’re equipping them with lifelong executive function skills.

 

If you’re a parent, educator, or homeschooler supporting bright, quirky kids, this episode is a toolkit of actionable insights. Grab the Executive Function Quick Start Guide for even more resources!

 

Links and Resources from Today’s Episode

Thank you to our sponsors:

CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family!

Night Zookeeper – Fun, comprehensive language arts for ages 6-12

• 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids
• Why Smart Kids Can’t Find Their Shoes (and What to Do…)
• Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
• RLL #271: Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children
• Why Movement Matters (Especially for Our Neurodivergent Kids)
• Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
• Overcoming Sleep Struggles: Tips for Neurodiverse Families
• Beating Homeschool Overwhelm with Heart and Flexibility
• Building Flexible Thinking Skills in Your Neurodivergent Child
• Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons