Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence Podcast By cover art

Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence

Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence

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 Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We'll explore everything from setting the right mindset for both parents and kids, to adopting a belief in every child’s competence—no matter their age or learning style. You’ll learn how to foster a growth mindset, build routines that balance predictability with flexibility, and adapt activities for learners at all different stages. I'll also share my own daily rhythm, helpful tips for including toddlers and preschoolers, and strategies for sparking curiosity and connection in daily learning. If you’re looking for ways to create a more peaceful, productive, and connected homeschool environment—this conversation is for you. Get ready for actionable ideas, thoughtful reflections, and encouragement as you chart your own unique path in homeschooling. In this episode you'll hear about: Importance of mindset in homeschoolingCommon worries (e.g., “Am I doing enough?”, distributing attention among kids)Reassurance: homeschooling parents are not defined by perfect executionEssential values: curiosity, compassion, and connectionGrowth Mindset TheoryIntroduction to Dr. Carol Dweck’s work on Growth Mindset vs. Fixed MindsetPhrases to encourage growth mindset (e.g., “You might not understand it yet…”)Encouraging parents to shift self-talk toward growthModeling growth mindset for childrenHomeschool-specific context: lack of classroom comparison—importance of modeling struggle and correctionPresuming Competence in LearnersDefinition and importance of presuming competenceReference to “Presuming Competence” article by Douglas Biklen & Jamie BurkePotential harms of presuming incompetence (lowered expectations, limited opportunities)Examples of how to presume competence in a homeschool settingEstablishing Routine and RhythmDifference between strict schedules and flexible rhythmsValue of predictability to allow for flexibility (“predictability allows for flexibility”)Anecdotes about morning routines and handling unpredictabilitySample daily rhythm in Sarah’s homeschoolIncorporating Movement and ChoresChores as structured movement and sensory input for kidsPersonalization of chores to children’s sensory and developmental needsImportance of movement right after morning timeTransitioning Between SubjectsConnecting the Day to Family NeedsAdapting for Mixed Ages and AbilitiesManaging Homeschool with Babies and ToddlersEncouraging Curiosity in Older KidsThe COWLICKS Mnemonic for Field TripsBuilding Connection and Independence Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Carol Dwerk On Mindset- BookPresuming Competence Inclusive Schooling On Presuming Competence What To Do When Your Child Says "I Can't" WorkshopHomeschool Daily Setup: Parent Planning GuideEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and PlanningEpisode 25: Understanding Hippotherapy: Therapeutic Equestrian Activities for Children's Development Episode 42: Executive Functioning Skills for Families: Holiday EditionExecutive Functioning SkillsIs My Child Ready To Handle Current Events?Executive Functioning And Field TripsConnect With Sarah On Instagram
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