Raising Lifelong Learners Why Typical Organization Systems Fail Neurodivergent Homeschoolers and What Works Instead
This episode is packed with real, practical strategies for getting (and staying) organized, especially for families homeschooling neurodivergent kids or anyone who simply bristles at traditional organization systems.
We all know the struggle: out of sight = out of mind. Those neat folders and tucked-away systems might work for some, but for kids (and parents!) with ADHD, executive dysfunction, or asynchronous learning styles, they often fizzle by October. Instead, we’re embracing OPEN, VISIBLE, and EASY-TO-ACCESS systems that truly work for the way our brains (and our kids’ brains) are wired.
Key Takeaways:
- Out of Sight = Out of Mind: Traditional closed binders and folders often fail neurodivergent kids. Use open, visible storage—clear bins, open baskets, or carts—so materials stay in sight and top-of-mind.
- Keep Systems Simple: Limit organizational systems to a maximum two-step process (touch and use). Reduce friction by making materials immediately accessible—no complex filing or multiple steps required.
- Celebrate Progress Visibly: Provide immediate, tangible feedback through “done” bins, photo portfolios, or visible finished work. Watching their progress accumulate gives neurodivergent learners needed motivation and dopamine hits.
If staying organized feels impossible, let yourself off the hook—this episode is full of practical, compassionate advice and encouragement. Grab a coffee, listen in, and let’s get ready for a smoother homeschool year together.
Looking for More Support?
If you want ongoing resources, coaching, or community, check out the Learner’s Lab or subscribe to our email list for info on upcoming small group cohorts for middle/high schoolers and executive function workshops.
You’re the perfect parent for your child—just as you are. Give yourself grace, celebrate the small wins, and remember: structure and flexibility are both just tools.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Thank you to our sponsors:
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- The Lab: An Online Community for Families Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kiddos
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Resilient Sons: A Boy Mom's Guide to Building a Strong, Confident, and Emotionally Intelligent Family
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Executive Function Struggles in Homeschooling: Why Smart Kids Can’t Find Their Shoes (and What to Do About It)
- How Adventuring Together Grows Confidence, Curiosity, and Executive Function
- Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children
- Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins
- Strengthen Executive Function Skills
- The Best Books for Teaching About Executive Functions Skills
- 7 Executive Functioning Activities for Small Children
- RLL #84: Exploring Education and Executive Function with Seth Perler
- The Unmeasured Executive Functioning Issue
- RLL 20: Helping Your Kiddo with Executive Function Skills Struggles | A Listener Question
- RLL LIVE | Improving Executive Functions
- When Working Memory Looks Like Defiance