Special Education

Special Education

La educación en el hogar puede ofrecer un ambiente flexible y personalizado que responda a las fortalezas, intereses y necesidades específicas de cada estudiante. Para muchas familias, representa la oportunidad de adaptar el proceso educativo al ritmo de aprendizaje del niño y crear un entorno donde pueda desarrollarse con mayor confianza.

Focus on strengths

Schools typically teach children through lectures, standardized tests, written reports, and homework. That doesn't work for many children with special needs. Homeschooling allows you to teach your child in the best way possible, based on their strengths, preferences, and interests. For example, your child may find it easier to learn through hands-on activities and visual examples. If your child is obsessed with dinosaurs or trucks, you can incorporate that into their lessons. With homeschooling, you can choose the curriculum, go at your own pace, and discover the best ways to help your child grasp and retain new knowledge.

Flexible Scheduling

It's important to have a routine and provide some structure to your child's days. But as a homeschooling parent, you have the freedom to take breaks as needed and change the plan.

Positive Social Experiences

A fear shared by all parents of children with special needs is that their children will be bullied or rejected. We desperately want our children to have friends who accept them for who they are, but we know they are at greater risk of being harassed because of their differences. Homeschooling eliminates much of that worry and gives you control over your child's social interactions, at least in the early years. Whether it's outings with other homeschooling families or playdates with friendly children, you can create a positive environment that helps your child develop confidence and a strong sense of self-worth.

Reduced Anxiety

Children with special needs often experience sensory processing disorders or anxiety that make learning in a school setting difficult. The sights, sounds, and chaos of schools can be overwhelming and disorienting. With homeschooling, you can create a nurturing and inspiring learning space in your home. Instead of a hard desk and chair, you can equip your classroom with a rug and large pillows for lying on the floor, a yoga ball or swing for sitting, and soft music, colors, or lighting.

Other advantages

Create your own curriculum
The student works at their own pace
Leverage existing skills
Explore hobbies
Encourage children to learn through exploration
Allow learning driven by curiosity and enjoyment
Bully-free education
No restrictions on bathroom breaks
Start the school day as late as necessary (especially after a stressful night)
Focus on life skills
Naps whenever desired
Controlled environment: no loud bells or triggering behaviors from other children (this can be especially helpful for children with autism)
Homeschooling avoids sensory overload
No need to worry about childcare
No cruel laughter when struggling with a skill (a common issue for children with dyslexia)
Reduced test anxiety
Homeschooling eliminates toxic competition
No stress over before- or after-school routines/schedules
Time to overcome challenges; time for advanced students
No need to stay in easier, boring classes
No uniforms or shoes
Zero embarrassment
Grade levels don't matter
Lack of restrictions (a major plus for children with ADD)
Family bonding time
No need to break the bank on private education
No exhausting schedules; you learn alongside your child
Never worry again about doctor's notes for excused absences
No pressure for perfect attendance
Your child won't bring home notes from the teacher, and you won't get calls from the office
Your child is free to fidget
Move and jump as much as they want
If something doesn't work, try something else
No packing lunches or planning special diets
No worrying about discussing medications or the nurses who administer them
No need to continue schoolwork if it's a bad day
Learning happens through various mediums (YouTube, audiobooks, movies, or even jumping on the trampoline!)
You don't need... don't rush
Friends don't disappear when summer arrives
Visit museums or parks during off-peak hours
Which means admission is cheaper, and it is less crowded and less stressful
You can spend as much time outdoors as you like
Sign language can easily be incorporated into homeschooling for children with learning difficulties.

Ignorance of the legality of homeschooling by some school principals, district superintendents, and school social workers has caused problems for some families who want to transfer their children with special needs to homeschool. (For example, they have been told they will lose their rights to therapies, etc.) If you encounter any problems, please feel free to contact us or call the Special Education Department's central office for assistance.

Some things that parents of children in Special Education should keep in mind:

It is important for parents to read the IDEA Act and the Special Education Handbook to gain general knowledge, understand the terminology, learn about available legal resources, and be able to advocate for the rights of their child with special needs.
The transfer to homeschooling does NOT mean that your child will lose their right to receive related services (therapies).
The Service Plan will be carried out in the region office (supervisor and parents)
If the child has never attended traditional school and/or you understand that he/she has some special need, you can register him/her at the regional office of the Department of Special Education.
Unilateral placements (Homeschooling and private schools) are entitled to therapies (occupational, speech and language, psychological, among others); refer to the Department of Special Education for details of eligibility, approved therapies, availability of funds and continuity of services.
Therefore, it is not necessary for the minor to be enrolled in the Department of Education, they only need to be registered in the Department of Special Education and be eligible to receive therapies.
People who lack information might tell you that homeschooling disqualifies you, but this is false. You should seek proper guidance on this matter, as you will be informed in writing if you are eligible and funding is unavailable.
Although assessments and therapies (related services) will not be lost, it is important to note that other services previously received at school will not be available, as these are only offered within the classroom setting. These services may include, but are not limited to: resource room services, adapted physical education, T1, assistive technology equipment, and transportation (including scholarships).
The Department of Education offers a "Homebound" service, but this is not considered homeschooling since the student is enrolled in the public school system. This service provides a teacher visit to the home or hospital, usually once a week, for students who are unable to attend school due to medical conditions.
To readmit a special education student to the public system, they must follow the same process as other students; they will be offered diagnostic tests by subject, but reasonable accommodations will be made as needed.
If you encounter problems with dropping out or re-enrolling, you must request a COMPU with a district representative.
It is suggested to have a folder, separate from the academic portfolio, that contains:

IDEA Act
Special Education Procedures Manual
Service Plan
Minutes
Medical evaluations
Expert Assessments
Laboratory Results
Referrals

13. When you conduct your annual Service Plan review with the regional education office, in order to establish the year's objectives, you may be asked about your child's academic progress. It would be appropriate to bring their academic portfolio, report card, or progress report (detailing achievements and areas for improvement). You can also include a list of materials and resources used, as well as extracurricular activities, to document all the initiatives you undertake at home and demonstrate why it is the best and least restrictive environment for your child.