Resetting Expectations for the New Homeschool Year/ what I wish I knew as a new homeschool parent

We're taking a clear look at what it really means to trust your instincts as a homeschool parent—while also navigating the pressure to measure up to systems and expectations that don't fit your child or your family. You'll hear directly about how to recognize when outside pressures are pulling you off course, how to distinguish between real needs and the fear of "falling behind," and why embracing a flexible, child-centered approach leads to more meaningful learning and stronger relationships. This isn't about finding a perfect method or escaping all doubts. It's about understanding that your context, your family, and your child's unique development are the true foundation of a successful homeschool—no matter what anyone else says or what the comparison trap tries to tell you. Thanks to Lovevery for sponsoring today's show.  You can get 10% off the Reading Skillset using the code HomeschoolOT10.  Check it out here.  In this episode you'll hear about: Starting the Homeschooling Journey Initial resistance to homeschooling Searching for alternatives (private school, crunching numbers) Detail on work-life balance while freelancing and parenting Using existing first grade workbooks during transition Early attempts to find community without social media (library searches, bulletin boards) Evolving Homeschool Methods How long initial workbook approach lasted Balancing working from home and homeschooling with help from a babysitter Challenges with babysitter's reactions and eventual switch to deschooling Move to field trips, classes, and experiential learning Gradual phasing in of curriculum "scaffolding" method Continuing to phase in/out curriculum as a tradition Trusting Parenting and Teaching Instincts Distinguishing between teaching background and homeschooling instincts Times when teaching background hindered home education Responding to outside pressures versus trusting instincts Emphasizing adjustment based on child's needs and family environment Reflection on how "dumping" too much at once lead to family stress Handling Negative Feedback and External Judgment Early defensiveness vs. later confidence Types of critics: curious, concerned, and judgmental Strategies for responding to each group Personal stories: teacher confrontation, family and community criticism Key refrains: "This is what's best for our family" Importance of openness and humility Homeschool Comparison and the "Falling Behind" Fear The tendency to compare progress to age/grade norms Asynchronous development in neurodivergent and gifted kids Prioritizing relationship over academic performance Gaps in learning (examples: writing, citation skills) Handling gaps as part of a lifelong learning process Reflections on Regret and Parental Imperfection Children pointing out what they missed in homeschooling The inevitability of regrets in all types of schooling and parenting Maintaining parent-child connection as a core value Advice: make the best decisions possible in the moment Socialization and Relationship Building Addressing the "socialization" question—a common concern for homeschoolers Early strategies for finding peers and forming friendships Role of extracurriculars (e.g., theater, Girl Scouts) and neighborhood connections Impact of the pandemic and moving on social opportunities Specific challenges for neurodivergent kids and non-joiners Importance of parental initiative in finding opportunities Distinction between opportunity and outcome in forming friendships Links and Resources From Today's Show Join the OT INsiders Here Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? Connect with Sarah Collins on IG The Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers Colleen's Website Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast Connect With Colleen On Instagram Check Out Our Title Sponsor Lovevery Learning RX Website Episode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseverance Episode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha Berry Episode 27: Preserving Childhood in a Digital World: Greta Eskridge's Expertise for Families Episode 41: Building Your Support Network as a Homeschooling Parent Especially during the holiday season Episode 46: Navigating Homeschool Priorities with Amy Sloan: From Family Dynamics to Crisis Management Episode 49: Connection Over Curriculum: Building Strong Bonds in Homeschooling Episode 69: Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It Episode 80: Raising Resilient Kids Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest, Colleen Kessler Colleen Kessler is an author, educator, podcaster, and international speaker known for her strengths-based, child-focused approach to homeschooling. With degrees in education and gifted studies, she specializes in the social and emotional development of neurodivergent children. Colleen helps parents understand and support their children's unique learning, emotional, and developmental needs. A homeschooling mom of four, she empowers families to build connection, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning at home. Learn more, explore the podcast, and connect with her community at raisinglifelonglearners.com.