Sarah Collins, MSOT, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist (OT) with a background in both pediatrics and home health, and she is also a homeschooling parent. Sarah was first introduced to homeschooling in 2016 while working as an OT in a client’s home; she was amazed at the learning atmosphere and opportunities within the home. Then, once homeschooling her own family, she noticed that parents—though experts on their own children—were invariably asking many of the same questions; most wanting to further their own understanding so they could use the homeschool
to help their children in what they specifically needed and wanted to do. As a result, Homeschool OT was established in 2019. She now focuses on helping parents make the match between the homeschool and their children’s current skill set, all while working toward what their children specifically need and want to do to occupy their time. (Hello, occupation!) She does this by consulting with parents around the world, teaching month-long classes on specific topics, building community in an online membership, and communicating nationally at conferences.
The Sensory-Balanced Mom
As homeschool parents, we constantly prioritize our children’s well-being, including their sensory needs. We often wonder about the factors influencing their ability to sit and focus, their clothing preferences, and their food choices. However, it’s crucial to recognize that our own sensory needs play a significant role in shaping theirs. In this insightful seminar, we will explore all eight sensory systems and then provide practical tips and strategies to enhance our own sensory regulation, creating a positive trickle-down effect on our kids. Together, we’ll learn how to foster a nurturing environment that supports sensory growth and overall well-being for all. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to empower yourself as a homeschool parent and boost your child’s sensory development!
Embracing Risky Play in Homeschooling: Fostering Growth and Confidence
As homeschool parents, providing a well-rounded education for our children often means stepping outside the box. This workshop will delve into the concept of risky play—a crucial, yet often misunderstood, aspect of childhood development. Research divides risky play into eight different forms, all involving activities that allow children to experience a healthy amount of risk and challenge. These activities help children build confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for their overall growth. Led by an occupational therapist, former recreational therapist, and fellow homeschool mom, this session will define risky play, provide tips and tricks to ease our parental struggle, and ways to adapt risky play with respect to each child’s unique abilities and limitations.
What Are Executive Functioning Skills?
What is this function you speak of? Executive functioning skills are defined as the “brain-based skills needed to effectively execute or perform tasks and solve problems.” As with most skills, there is a range; not everyone needs to complete the same tasks on a daily basis. But, there must be a match between the environment, expectations, and abilities of a person.
This class will 1) define executive functional skills, 2) explain why they can be hard for some people, and 3) give helpful solutions to use the homeschool to help your children build these skills.
