Many articles you read in homeschooling magazines or blogs are based with the assumption that your child has a mild to moderately disability. What’s a family to do if their child is severely affected? How can you legally homeschool, properly maintain paperwork, show progress, and keep the strength to keep going?
Here are some ideas how to homeschool a severely disabled child.
1) Be sure about your state laws! If that means you need to contact your state organization or a legal homeschooling organization please do! It is very important to know ahead of time what is expected of you.
2) Ungraded Level- I was pleasantly surprised that many states allow for you to have an ungraded level for your child. Meaning your child is not assumed to be 3rd grade or 9th grade based on their age. You should have documentation that backs up why your child is not progressing at a typical age/grade.
3) No Standardized Testing or use alternate testing- There are children that are not able to sit for a test no matter how many accommodations the tester makes. You can be excused from standardized testing with the proper documentation from your child’s doctor. Be sure to get in writing what the school/state will accept as your an alternative form of testing.
3) Psychologist, neuropsychiatrist, developmental pediatrician that is well versed in children with severe issues and homeschooling friendly! This is super important. You need a medical/educational team that is on your family’s side!
4) Video tape, keep ALL material, screen shots of work in progress, pictures of working with therapist- All this information builds up to show a consistent well rounded education that fits your child’s ability.
5) Therapy and doctor reports- Keep all reports and evaluations in a file with your homeschooling material. You do not have to show your child’s private medical information unless there is a significant issue.
6) Outside observers reports, like grandma- Have the letter be specific like, “Tom could not hold a ball in September. Now in May he can hold a ball and attempt to throw it!”
You can homeschool and progress even when facing significate medical issues. The goals your have the speed at which you progress will be all your own. Don’t let other’s push your family, make you feel as if you are failing because they are progressing faster. Your family is special and the Lord is with you every step of the way!
I would love to hear any ideas you have of how to deal with significate learning issues. Please feel free to share your blog as well. We are here to support and encourage one another!