Homeschoolzilla Takes On The Making of a Homeschool

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because Homeschoolzilla is officially ON THE SCENE! And this time, the "scene" involves navigating the wonderfully wild world of homeschooling a brilliant, quirky, and totally awesome autistic trans teen. Forget your perfectly curated Instagram feeds and color-coded lesson plans, because we're diving headfirst into the beautiful chaos that is our reality.

So, what does "taking on" homeschooling look like when you've got a kiddo who sees the world in vibrant detail, stims with joyful abandon, and is discovering the incredible power of their own identity? It looks like a glorious, messy, and utterly unique adventure, that's what!

Forget the dusty textbooks gathering cobwebs on the shelf. We're talking about deep dives into hyperfixations that would make Wikipedia blush. One week it's the intricate social structures of ant colonies, the next it's the entire discography of a niche 80s synth-pop band. And guess what? We're rolling with it! Because who says learning can't involve building elaborate ant farms (outside, thankfully!) or analyzing the lyrical genius (and questionable fashion choices) of forgotten musical icons?

"Taking on" homeschooling also means creating a learning environment that's a sensory sanctuary. Forget fluorescent lights and echoing hallways. Think cozy corners with weighted blankets, fidget toys within easy reach, and the glorious freedom to learn in whatever position feels right at that moment (upside down on the couch? Sure, why not!). We're building a space where meltdowns are met with understanding and support, and stimming isn't something to be suppressed, but a natural expression of self.

And let's not forget the journey of self-discovery. "Taking on" homeschooling as the parent of a trans teen means creating a safe and affirming space where they can explore their identity without the pressures and potential negativity of a traditional school environment. It means weaving in discussions about history, social justice, and the incredible diversity of human experience. It means celebrating every step of their journey with unwavering love and support.

Now, don't get me wrong, it's not all sunshine and rainbows (though we do have a lot of rainbow-themed art projects!). There are days when executive function feels like a mythical creature, and getting started on a task requires the strategic planning of a military operation. There are moments of frustration, for both of us. But "taking on" homeschooling means learning and growing together. It means adapting, being flexible, and celebrating the small victories – like finally understanding a tricky math concept or having the courage to try a new social interaction.

So, yeah, Homeschoolzilla is officially tackling this homeschooling gig with all the fierce love and determination I can muster. It's not always easy, it's definitely not always conventional, but it is absolutely, unequivocally, ours. And honestly? I wouldn't have it any other way.

-Homeschoolzilla

**If you prefer a list of action steps to run a successful homeschool with special needs, it's there for you below !

Stay tuned for more tales from the trenches (or maybe the cozy corner!), as Homeschoolzilla continues to take on the amazing adventure of homeschooling my incredible autistic trans teen! What are your biggest homeschooling adventures? Share them in the comments below!

#1**Incorporate Special Interests**

   - Identify the child’s interests and hobbies to make learning more engaging. For example, if they love animals, integrate science lessons around wildlife or ecosystems.

   - Use these interests as a basis for projects, reading materials, and even math problems.

#2 **Focus on Life Skills**

   - Include lessons that teach practical life skills, such as cooking, budgeting, or gardening. These skills foster independence and confidence, which are essential for both the mom and the child.

   - Encourage the child to take part in household tasks, adapting instructions to suit their learning style.

#3. **Emotional and Social Support**

   - Recognize the emotional dynamics at play. Both the mother and child may experience mood changes or anxiety; create activities that promote emotional expression, such as journaling or art.

   - Schedule social interactions (virtual or in-person) with friends and support groups to foster connections and alleviate feelings of isolation.

#4. **Tailored Learning Approaches**

   - Use diverse teaching methods, including visual aids, hands-on activities, and interactive online resources, to cater to the child’s sensory processing preferences.

   - Break lessons into smaller, manageable segments to prevent overwhelm and frustration.

#5. **Physical Activity and Movement Breaks**

   - Integrate physical activity to support both mental and physical health. Dance sessions, yoga, or nature walks can provide outlets for energy and stress relief.

   - Adapt activities to accommodate any physical limitations or preferences, making them fun and inclusive.

#6. **Reflection and Adjustment**

   - At the end of each week, set aside time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Encourage open communication about feelings and experiences from both the mom’s and the child’s perspectives.

   - Be willing to adjust the following week’s plan based on this reflection, allowing for a responsive and adaptable approach to learning.

Final thoughts…

Running a homeschool week with a focus on inclusivity and flexibility can lead to rewarding experiences for both the menopausal mom and the gender-neutral autistic child. By embracing unique needs and adjusting approaches, families can create a nurturing learning environment that fosters growth, connection, and joy. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all in homeschooling; it's all a

bout what works best for your family.