Helping Kids Who Resist: Low-Demand Homeschooling for Autonomy and Skill-Building
Raising Lifelong Learners
If you’ve ever felt frustrated when your child resists even enjoyable activities, you’re not alone. In this week’s episode, we dive deep into demand avoidance—why neurodivergent kiddos sometimes just can’t do what we ask (even when it’s fun!)—and share a toolkit of practical strategies you can start using today. Whether you’re homeschooling a differently wired kiddo or navigating daily learning resistance, this episode is packed with actionable tips, real-life examples, and mindset shifts to help your child build skills in a low-pressure way. Key Takeaways: ...
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Meltdowns vs. Shutdowns: Understanding and Responding to Big Feelings in Neurodivergent Kids
Raising Lifelong Learners
In this week’s episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the signs, strategies, and real-life tips for helping your differently wired kids (and yourself!) navigate emotional storms. Key Takeaways: Practical tools to spot the early cues of meltdowns vs. shutdowns Simple, effective co-regulation ideas you can use right now—no fancy equipment needed How to repair, reflect, and reset after those tough moments, and so much more Perfect for homeschool families, parents of neurodivergent kiddos, or anyone wanting to better understand and support big feelings at home. Save this episode and...
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When School Refusal Turns Into a Healing Journey
Raising Lifelong Learners
In this week’s episode of the podcast, we talk candidly about what school refusal really means for children and their families, and how homeschooling can offer a path toward healing, connection, and growth. Whether you’re considering pulling your child out of school or you’re already homeschooling but feeling stuck after a tough season, this conversation is for you. Here are three key takeaways for parents facing this challenge: School refusal is communication, not a character flaw. When a child can’t attend school, it’s their nervous system asking for safety, not a sign of...
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Navigating the Holidays with Intense and Sensitive Kids
Raising Lifelong Learners
As the holidays approach, many families experience a swirl of excitement, chaos, and sometimes overwhelm. On the latest episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the realities of parenting and homeschooling neurodivergent kids during this season—and share practical strategies to help everyone thrive (not just survive). Here are 3 key takeaways for parents and educators supporting neurodiverse learners over the holidays: Proactive Planning is Essential: From bringing favorite snacks and engaging activities to prepping for early exits from gatherings, thinking ahead can make all the...
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Picky Eating | Sensory Struggles and Real Solutions for Homeschooling Families
Raising Lifelong Learners
If mealtimes sometimes feel more like hostage negotiations than family gatherings – you’re not alone! In our latest episode of the podcast, we explore the sensory reasons behind picky eating, especially for neurodivergent kids, and share practical strategies to make the table a calmer, more positive space. Highlights from this episode: Understanding the Why: Picky eating isn’t just stubbornness. It often stems from sensory sensitivities, past negative experiences, or a need for predictability. Kids aren’t being difficult—their bodies are protecting them. Red Flags to Watch For:...
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Movement on Bad Weather Days: Meeting Sensory Needs at Home
Raising Lifelong Learners
Icky Weather can throw off routines, especially for differently wired kiddos with sensory needs. When outdoor time isn’t an option, you might notice more fidgeting, zoning out, or struggles with focus. But don’t worry—in this episode of the podcast, you'll find simple, creative ideas to feed those movement needs, helping kids regulate and transition smoothly to academics or other activities. Here’s a peek at what you’ll find: Quick Home Sensory Zone: Learn how to set up a safe, 5x5 space using cushions, painter’s tape, and a crash pad—no fancy equipment necessary! ...
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Sensory Struggles and Clothes: How to Help Your Child Dress Without Tears
Raising Lifelong Learners
We know mornings can feel like a battlefield when sensory issues and clothing collide, leaving kids (and parents!) frustrated before the day even begins. That’s why this week’s podcast episode dives into the heart of sensory struggles with clothes. Colleen has packed this episode with real-life advice for families navigating tactile sensitivities. If getting dressed feels like wrestling a porcupine, you’re not alone—and you’re not failing! Sensory struggles are REAL signals from your child’s nervous system. Sometimes clothes feel prickly, itchy, or unexpectedly uncomfortable and it...
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Navigating Sensory Overload: Actionable Strategies for Kids in Loud Environments
Raising Lifelong Learners
This episode continues our sensory series, diving deep into the world of Sensory Sound, with actionable strategies for supporting sensitive kids wherever you go. Why Are Loud Spaces So Overwhelming? Colleen unpacks how unpredictable peaks in sound, bustling crowds, harsh lighting, and layered sensory inputs can overload sensitive nervous systems. Whether it’s a mic popping at announcements, the hum of the HVAC, or the swirl of cafeteria chatter—these environments can quickly become “too much.” Building a Predictable Noise Plan—Step by Step This episode is all about taking back...
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Building a Sensory Diet Toolbox for Neurodivergent Kids at Home
Raising Lifelong Learners
In today's episode, Colleen breaks down what a sensory diet is (and isn’t!), why it matters, and how to get started with simple, safe, and low-prep strategies that work in any space—even if your house is bursting at the seams. Here’s what you’ll find inside: A breakdown of the five key sensory systems: proprioceptive, vestibular, tactile, oral motor, and auditory/visual. Ideas for easy, everyday sensory activities: From “squeezy hugs” and wall pushups to crashing into beanbags, squishing play doh, sipping yogurt through a straw, and more—no fancy equipment required! How to...
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Why Is Finishing So Hard? Helping Neurodivergent Kids Cross the Finish Line
Raising Lifelong Learners
Let’s be honest: if your kiddos leave a trail of half-finished projects, open browser tabs, and idea explosions in their wake, you are SO not alone. Neurodivergent kids (and their amazing, multitasking moms!) can struggle with seeing things through—not because they’re lazy or unmotivated, but because the finish line often feels fuzzy, overwhelming, or just plain boring. In this week’s episode, we're unpacking: Why finishing is tough for neurodivergent kiddos, whether it’s next-step anxiety, perfectionism, time blindness, or working memory hurdles. The power of “done...
info_outlineThis week's episode is all about cultivating leadership skills in our kiddos, especially those amazing outside-the-box thinkers.
We dive into a type of leadership that’s less about rallying a group and more about creativity, kindness, and empathy. We go over ways to nurture these qualities in your homeschool environment and everyday family life. This is part of our focus for the month in the Learner's Lab, where leadership takes center stage.
Key Takeaways:
- Why Leadership Matters: Discover how leadership skills enhance problem-solving, empathy, and adaptability, crucial for every child, especially in neurodivergent families.
- Homeschool Activities: Try fun activities like planning field trips and hosting family meetings to foster leadership in children. Perfect for practical application at home!
- Creative Leadership: Explore how homeschool settings provide the perfect environment for kids to experiment and build resilience without external pressures.
- Resources Galore: We have a treasure trove of resources, including books, movies, and unit studies, plus four years of activities in the Learner’s Lab to enrich your homeschool journey.
Also, don’t miss our upcoming EQ Quest in The Learner's Lab, where your family can dive into emotional intelligence activities centered on leadership. It's a fantastic opportunity for you and your kids to learn and grow together.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
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
- Why Play Matters | Unleashing Lifelong Learning Through Play
- What Does a Gifted Child Look Like?
- Embracing Child-Focused Learning | A Guide for Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
- 100 Hints That Your Child May Be Gifted
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence
- Cultivating Commitment and Follow Through
- Why Gamified Learning Works So Well For Gifted Children
- The Power Of Inquiry Based Learning For Gifted Children
Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler