Raising Lifelong Learners

Colleen Kessler
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Sep 11, 2025 • 57min

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  
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Sep 5, 2025 • 50min

Morning Routines That Work: Flexible Approaches for Gifted and Neurodivergent Kids

Struggling with chaotic mornings—especially with neurodivergent, gifted, or twice-exceptional kiddos? You’re not alone! This week's episode of the podcast dives deep into practical strategies for establishing morning routines that truly work for your unique family.   Here are 3 key takeaways from this episode: Ditch the “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach: Neurodivergent kids break the mold! Traditional checklists and rigid schedules can actually increase stress. Instead, focus on finding rhythms and anchors that guide your morning rather than the clock. Externalize Time & Reduce Decision Fatigue: Many kids (and adults!) experience “time blindness.” Support them by using visual timers, playlists, or analog clocks, and prepping choices the night before to streamline mornings and cut down on stress. Prioritize Movement, Regulation, and Connection: Mornings run smoother when you weave in brief movement breaks, sensory supports, and moments of connection before tackling big tasks. These micro-habits help everyone launch into the day feeling regulated and ready.   Want more practical tools? There’s a free download in the episode with sample morning routines and rhythm cards—perfect for building routines that are realistic and sustainable!   Let’s make mornings kinder for everyone—especially YOU, the parent.   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   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 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids  
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Aug 27, 2025 • 46min

Finding the Sweet Spot – Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Your Homeschool

In this week’s episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the tricky tightrope walk of balancing structure and flexibility at home—because let’s be honest, parenting (and homeschooling) neurodivergent kids isn’t for the faint of heart! This episode is your breathe-and-hit-reset permission slip. Here’s a peek at what we covered:   Structure is Comforting… Until It Isn’t Structure helps our kids (and us!) feel safe. Predictable routines can seriously reduce anxiety, especially for those with executive functioning challenges, ADHD, autism, or sensory processing issues. But too much rigidity? It can spark rebellion, burnout, and meltdowns—especially with creative, passionate, gifted kids.   What Does Flexibility Really Mean? Flexibility doesn’t mean winging it! It means responsive teaching—letting your child’s needs, interests, and even energy levels guide your day. I share my own family's rhythm, from color-coded calendars to built-in time for unexpected appointments and sibling support.   Practical Strategies to Try Now Here are some actionable takeaways to help you find your family’s sweet spot: Start with Your “Must Do’s”: Define your “minimum viable day”—the simplest version of what needs to happen (e.g., a little reading, writing, and math). Ease into your routine and build up slowly. Anchors, Not Timetables: Instead of strict schedules, anchor your day around meals, read-alouds, or physical routines. Visual Tools & Ownership: Use checklists, whiteboards, or color-coded calendars so your kids know what’s on deck. Support Executive Function: Scaffold routines gently and model breaking big tasks into small steps. Embrace Interest-Led Learning: Let your child’s passions drive parts of the curriculum for greater engagement. Built-in Downtime: Everyone—including you!—needs breaks to recharge.   You’re Not Alone (Even When It Feels Like It) If your Instagram doesn’t look like those homeschool highlight reels, that’s normal. Messy days aren’t failures—they’re feedback.   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: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Night Zookeeper – Fun, comprehensive language arts for ages 6-12 Why Create a Schedule Command Center? Setting Up a Homeschool Schedule Executive Function Struggles in Homeschooling: Why Smart Kids Can’t Find Their Shoes (and What to Do About It) Beating Homeschool Overwhelm With Heart and Flexibility Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons A Thriving Homeschool | Strategies for Setting Boundaries
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Aug 22, 2025 • 44min

Nurturing Neurodivergent Friendships: Practical Tips for Parents and Kids

This week on the podcast we're diving into a topic that's near and dear to so many of us: friendships for neurodivergent kids (and yes, for us as parents too). With a new school year kicking into gear, worries about social connection and "finding your people" can rise to the surface—especially for families navigating neurodiversity. What We’re Unpacking This Episode: Why friendships can be challenging for neurodivergent kids (think asynchronous development, sensory sensitivities, social anxiety, or intense interests that aren’t always shared by peers). Supporting your child: From validating their feelings and practicing social skills together, to seeking out interest-based clubs and even professional help when needed, we’re covering loads of strategies. Managing our own expectations: Sometimes it's our hearts that ache more than our kids’—especially if they’re totally content solo-building Lego metropolises while we scroll by endless social media playdate posts. (You’re not alone if this sounds all too familiar.) Key Takeaway: There’s no single “right” way for kids to socialize—and not all loneliness means your child is suffering. We talk about the difference between the child who longs for connection (and how to support them) and the content solo flyer (who’s truly happy alone, even if that’s hard for us to accept as parents). Quick Tips From the Episode: Normalize neurodiversity at home. Celebrate differences. Your child isn’t broken—they’re beautifully wired. Prioritize shared interests over age. Sometimes the best friendships are across generations or centered around passions rather than peer groups. Practice and role-play social skills in low-pressure environments (think: one-on-one meetups, online clubs like our Learner’s Lab, or even just chatting with a cool neighbor with a unique hobby). Know that seeking therapy or coaching is a strength, not a weakness—for both kids and parents. A Gentle Reminder: If your child is thriving emotionally, feels seen and supported, and is building their life at their own pace—even if it doesn’t look the way you expected—you’re doing a great job. Sometimes the most meaningful friendships (and personal growth) take the scenic route.   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 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Finding Your People | Why Community Matters for Homeschoolers of Neurodivergent Kids Why LEGO STEM Challenges Belong in Your Homeschool – Especially If You’re Raising Neurodivergent Kids Teaching Kids to Befriend Others Teaching Kids About Being a Good Friend with Help From Great Books and Netflix RLL #42: What It’s Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella
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Aug 15, 2025 • 33min

Executive Function Struggles in Homeschooling: Why Smart Kids Can’t Find Their Shoes (and What to Do About It)

This week’s episode of the podcast is all about executive function—what it is, how struggles in these skills show up in homeschoolers, and, most importantly, what you can do at home to support your child as they grow. Whether your child is gifted, twice-exceptional, or has a neurodivergence like ADHD or autism, these ideas are for you. Here are some highlights and key takeaways: Executive function is more than organization. It encompasses a whole set of skills: from planning and prioritizing to task initiation, working memory, emotional regulation, and more. Many neurodivergent kids’ intellectual abilities often outpace these essential life skills. Scaffolding and modeling are key. Building executive function doesn’t mean doing it all for them. Instead, break down tasks, provide step-by-step support, externalize plans (think: whiteboards and visual checklists), and consistently model your own planning and problem-solving out loud. Progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins and keep the focus on growth and effort. Building these life skills is a marathon, not a sprint. Our job isn’t to micromanage, but to guide, equip, and be a safe base as our kids grow into independent problem-solvers. Whether you’re a parent or educator, this episode is a great reminder: little steps matter—and you’re not alone on the journey!   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 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit 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
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Aug 6, 2025 • 51min

Finding Your People | Why Community Matters for Homeschoolers of Neurodivergent Kids

This week on the podcast, Colleen revisited one of the most common, sometimes thorny, and always essential homeschool topics: finding your people and creating a support system, especially when you’re parenting and homeschooling neurodivergent, gifted, or otherwise outside-the-box kiddos. After 17 years on this journey, she can assure you: you’re not alone if building community feels overwhelming at times—whether you’re coming back from a pandemic pause, have tricky past experiences, or your kids just don’t “fit in” with typical local groups. Here are some highlights and key takeaways: Community Matters:  Having people around who understand the joys and challenges of homeschooling differently-wired kids is more than a luxury—it’s essential fuel for thriving, not just surviving. Our kids (and we as parents) need spaces where it’s okay to be quirky, creative, or intense—where someone else says “me too!” and everyone feels genuinely seen. It Can Be Hard:  Maybe the co-ops near you are too rigid, you’ve faced past exclusion or judgment, or (like me) you’re just plain exhausted trying to do it all. Sometimes your kids resist group activities, or you don’t have “joiner” personalities in the house. These are all normal feelings and totally valid struggles. You May Need to Rethink What Community Looks Like:  Community doesn’t have to be a massive co-op or weekly field trip group! It could be a micro-community, supportive online spaces, interest-based activities, or supportive adults who “get” your kids, from librarians to mentors to hobby group leaders. Take Some Action This WeekGrab a notebook (or the free printable) and reflect on: What kind of community are you craving most right now—support, social time, academic help? List three possible places or people you might reach out to this week for connection (library, therapist, other homeschool families, online groups, etc.) Is there a family you could invite to connect more regularly and start your own small community? You don’t have to do this alone. Even if you’re the “burned out mom who’s always holding it together” or you’ve tried and been hurt, please know: I see you. The right people are out there, and sometimes you simply need to widen your lens and try again when the time feels right. If you need a soft place to land, join us inside the Learner’s Lab—where our quirky, creative, and wonderful community is always waiting for you. And if you’re already in a good spot? Reach out to someone else who might need your invitation.   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 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit Finding Your Community as a Neurodivergent Family Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids Finding Homeschool Community (for our children and ourselves) Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person Building Flexible Thinking Skills in Your Neurodivergent Child Why Decision Making Feels Overwhelming for Neurodivergent Kids and How to Help Creative Summer Activities to Strengthen Family Connection and Boost Learning
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Jul 30, 2025 • 23min

Building Flexible Thinking Skills in Your Neurodivergent Child

This week on the podcast, we dive into a topic close to the hearts of many parents and educators: helping neurodivergent kids build flexible thinking skills. Whether you’re parenting or teaching gifted, 2e, ADHD, autistic, or otherwise wonderfully-wired kiddos, you know that rigid thinking can turn even minor changes into big challenges. You’ll hear real-life stories, practical strategies, and compassionate guidance to help you nurture adaptability—without forcing your kids to just “go with the flow.”   Key takeaways from this episode: Validate Their Experience: Begin by acknowledging your child’s feelings when plans or expectations shift. Empathy and validation open the door to problem-solving. Model Flexibility: Your kids are always watching! Talk through your own changes in plans, letting them see that adjustment is a skill, not a failure. Use Playful & Structured Opportunities: Incorporate “Plan B” days, offer limited choices, and use stories or role-playing to gently stretch their thinking in a safe, fun way. If you’re navigating homeschooling with neurodivergent kids—or simply looking to foster resilience—this episode is rich with actionable ideas.  Let’s raise lifelong learners who are ready to adapt, shift, and grow through all of life’s twists and turns!   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 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit Beating Homeschool Overwhelm With Heart and Flexibility Falling Unexpectedly in Love With Homeschooling My Gifted Child Homeschooling a Profoundly Gifted Child Sparking Curiosity | Nurturing a Love of Learning in Your Child Embracing Interest-Led Homeschooling with Lydia Rosado Sparkschooling | Engaging Children in Music, Art, and STEM Gifted and Distractible with Julie Skolnick Strengthen Executive Function Skills The Best Books for Teaching About Executive Functions Skills 7 Executive Functioning Activities for Small Children 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on  Twitter @ColleenKessler,  Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners,  Instagram @ColleenKessler
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Jul 24, 2025 • 38min

Why Decision Making Feels Overwhelming for Neurodivergent Kids and How to Help

This week on the podcast, we’re diving deep into a topic that comes up all the time in our community: helping our neurodivergent kids make decisions. If you’ve ever watched your creative, outside-the-box thinker freeze up over choosing a research topic or panic trying to pick a co-op class, you’re not alone. Decision-making—something that seems so simple—can sometimes send our brilliant kids into full-on meltdown mode. Why is that? And more importantly, what can we do to support them?   Why Decisions Are So Hard for Neurodivergent Kids As I shared in this week’s podcast episode, decision-making isn’t just about picking A or B. It relies on executive function skills: planning, working memory, emotional regulation, and flexible thinking. And for gifted and twice-exceptional kids—those who are often used to being good at things without trying—the pressure to “get it right” can be paralyzing. Sometimes just choosing a topic to study or which extracurricular to try feels like a mountain. The fear of making the “wrong” choice, letting someone down, or not liking the outcome can turn a simple decision into a source of overwhelm. Key Takeaways: Scaffold Decisions: Break big choices into smaller, manageable steps. Instead of asking your child to choose a year-long project, offer two or three options, or start with smaller daily decisions to build confidence. Use Visual Supports: Choice boards, flowcharts, and checklists can make decisions less overwhelming. Visual aids reduce mental load and help children organize their thoughts. Limit Choices, Make Them Meaningful: Too many options can lead to paralysis. Offer two or three choices you’re comfortable with to support autonomy while minimizing overwhelm. Practice Micro-Decisions: Encourage your child to make small choices throughout the day—like which book to read or what snack to have. These low-pressure decisions build “decision-making muscles.” Normalize and Validate Struggle: Acknowledge that decision-making is hard, especially for neurodivergent kids. Let your child know their feelings are valid and that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Reflect and Debrief Together: After decisions are made, circle back and discuss what worked and what didn’t. Share what you might do differently next time to help your child see that mistakes are opportunities to learn. Co-Regulate Emotions: Model calmness and support when your child feels stuck. Your steady presence can help soothe anxiety and create a safe space for making choices. Use Collaborative Language: Approach decisions as a team with phrases like, “Let’s figure this out together.” This relieves pressure and shifts the dynamic from struggle to partnership. Balance Support and Independence: Walk alongside your child as they build these skills. Scaffolding isn't coddling—it’s a loving way to help children become confident decision-makers over time. Be Patient—It’s a Process: Remember, every small practice and positive experience with decision-making builds lifelong confidence and resilience. Celebrate progress and keep encouraging effort, even when things don’t go perfectly..   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 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit 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
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Jul 16, 2025 • 42min

Creative Summer Activities to Strengthen Family Connection and Boost Learning

Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect chance to hit pause on the box-checking frenzy and really connect with our kids. In this week’s episode of the podcast, we dive into one of my favorite topics: creating joyful, low-pressure family memories (without overloading your plate—or your calendar). Why Fun Matters (Even for Year-Round Homeschoolers!) Remember, while academics are important, authentic connection is the real foundation for lifelong learning. When we prioritize laughter, conversation, and shared experiences, our kids build trust, emotional safety, and a love for learning. Fun isn’t an interruption—it’s the heart of education, especially for neurodivergent kids who thrive when joy is woven into their days.   Here are some highlights and takeaways: Release the Guilt—Fun is Productive It’s easy to feel guilty when we haven’t checked enough boxes or finished the curriculum. But as Colleen says: “Fun is productive, especially for 2e, ADHD, anxious, or autistic learners. It helps them regulate and sparks creative thinking.” And it’s the simple, everyday moments—late-night talks, silly dance parties, or sharing a new hobby—that kids remember most. Let’s Model Joyful Adulthood Our kids look to us as their prime example of what adulthood—and parenthood—should feel like. Let’s show them that happiness, connection, and fulfillment are as valuable as diligence. Prioritizing fun and togetherness, especially during these summer months, sets a positive tone for the school year ahead—and for life. Want More Support & Ideas? If you need inspiration—or a community of other outside-the-box families—the Learner’s Lab is full of monthly themes, connection challenges, live clubs (hello, Doodle + Lego Club!), and coaching calls. There’s a whole archive of fun waiting for you whenever you want to jump in. How will you make FUN part of your family’s summer?   Links and Resources from Today’s Episode Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids RLL #76: Creating the Adventurous Family with Rachel Rainbolt A Week of Epic Backyard Nature Science Fun | Summer Camp at Home Family Night Game Guide Summer Activities for Kids Outdoor Sun Prints: Summer Science for Kids Sneaking In Summer Learning Navigating Summer Learning With Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids A Week of Epic Backyard Nature Science Fun | Summer Camp at Home Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on  Twitter @ColleenKessler,  Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners,  Instagram @ColleenKessler
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Jul 9, 2025 • 45min

Beating Homeschool Overwhelm With Heart and Flexibility

This week on the podcast, we get real about something we ALL feel at some point (or every day): OVERWHELM. If you’re juggling year-round homeschooling, multiple ages, neurodivergent needs, big summer transitions, and the regular chaos of life, this episode is for you.   Here are some highlights and takeaways: Overwhelm is Normal—You’re Not Alone! Whether it’s decision fatigue, comparing your journey to others, or executive function struggles (for you AND the kids), it’s okay to feel like you can’t do it all. Colleen reminds us: “Homeschooling parents of neurodivergent kids—overwhelm is expected. This is normal.” Reframe Success Success is NOT getting every single lesson checked off or enforcing perfect handwriting by sixth grade. It’s about making progress, fostering curiosity, connecting with your kids, and staying flexible. Celebrate the little wins and focus on connection over perfection. Embrace Flexibility (and Ice Cream for Dinner!) Sometimes you have to toss the plan and go for ice cream, or ditch the math lesson in favor of a walk or a snuggle with a documentary. Homeschooling gives us permission to prioritize what matters most in that moment—connection, not just curriculum. Community Matters You’re not meant to do this alone. Colleen invites you to join the free space in The Learner’s Lab for support, conversation, and a judgment-free zone to connect with other parents who get it. Remember Your Why Homeschooling is a loving, intentional choice, especially for neurodivergent kiddos who need something different. On hard days, revisit your original “why”—it can help ground you and remind you of the long-term wins. Raising your kids at home is messy and beautiful. So take a deep breath, let go of the guilt, and remember: You are the perfect parent for your kids, and they are the perfect kids for you.   Links and Resources from Today’s Episode Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit When the World Overwhelms Your Anxious Child | How You Can Help Homeschooling During Overwhelming Times Easy Ways to Boost Emotional Intelligence During Your Homeschool Day Busting the Biggest Myths About Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kids Why Family Connection Matters Most as Kids Grow Up How Adventuring Together Grows Confidence, Curiosity, and Executive Function Falling Unexpectedly in Love With Homeschooling My Gifted Child Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on  Twitter @ColleenKessler,  Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners,  Instagram @ColleenKessler

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