Several years ago, I was a young homeschooling mother with a lot of self-doubt. Despite being well connected with wonderful homeschooling friends and a great co-op, I felt alone and adrift. Why? Two of my children weren’t progressing at the same pace as their peers. Having been diagnosed with learning differences, my kids were in different places academically and socially. When a friend of mine would share her children’s latest achievements, I couldn’t help but feel the disparity between her kids and mine.
As much as I loved my friends, they could not understand the daily challenges my children faced. I longed for connection, for a space for my family where my kids’ differences would not only be understood but would also be embraced. My children were learning and growing. I wanted to find families who could relate to mine. Online groups helped, but they lacked the human touch I craved. Fortunately, I found it at my local homeschool conference.
During the conference, I attended workshops dedicated to topics relevant to my family’s situation. I sat among parents who shared my worries but also celebrated their students’ successes. In the vendor hall I was able to page through curriculum options that fit my kids’ needs, learn about field trip opportunities around the state, and discover fun and educational items to enhance my instruction. I even connected with a couple of parents whose children were in a similar place as mine.
Comfort can be found within a community. Although you may homeschool a student with learning differences, you are not alone. Check out your local homeschool conference, which offers something for everyone in the family, including programs tailored to students—even students with special learning needs. The homeschooling journey is long. Find community and connection at your local homeschool conference.
by Jennifer Mauser
