Like most homeschooling parents I will second guess myself about the choice I made.

Sometimes daily.

It’s a strange week when those feelings don’t come up at all.

I know you’ve felt them, too.

Wherever you are in your journey as a homeschooling family I just want to say that I see you.

You’re doing amazing - I know it doesn’t feel that way sometimes - especially on the days you feel overwhelmed and alone.

This is hard.

Hardest damn thing I’ve ever done.

Let’s keep going, together.

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It wasn’t until a few months ago when I figured out my planning materials so that it finally allowed me to more easily prepare our 3-4 week school cycles.

We’re a family of neurodiverse humans who, for many reasons, don’t do “Summer” things like vacations, roadtrips, or overnight camps.

So, our school works out to be 3-4 weeks ON and then 1 week OFF all year, which I’ve said time and again since starting, is the only way I will ever do school.

I also prefer to teach in units rather than use an all-in-one curriculum because my PDAers can sniff that crap out every.time. money is spent on new learning experience and each time that’s happened I’d have to find a whole new curriculum when they shut it down on me.

Units (or smaller) are SO much easier to work with.

So, I have a whole week to get my feral, ankle-chasing ducks in a row for the subsequent 3 weeks and this is how I do it:

I start with this monthly planner for each kid: (which you can download here - free, no email needed)

It’s not a lot of room to write more than a title/topic/lesson and maybe some page numbers or a chapter number but that’s okay for me because sometimes I end up erasing things and moving a lesson to a different day.

I’ve got a folder that I store any curriculum units or worksheets, so the monthly planner is really more of a dynamic timeline that I keep at the front. I see if I can fit in all of the chapters of a book my 8-year old is reading before the next break or see how far out our new science unit goes, or see where a field trip to the local science center will fit.

If something I wrote down gets completed? I highlight it so I know it’s done.

If something doesn’t get completed? I erase it and move it to a different day.

This sometimes happens if we go down a rabbit trail on one lesson or end up doing something completely out of the blue or on days when their self-directed learning manifests itself (love those days).

I then use this next file to write out each of my kid’s to-do list for the day: (which you can download here - also free, no email needed)

The kids will take a look at their “dailies” and most often they count the items and go “uuuuuuugh” but that’s to be expected. School involves lots of demands, I get it.

I will also put down any therapies or medical appointments so they have a better idea about how the day will flow.

And doodle space… because we all need to doodle more.

As they complete an item they will check it off. When all things are completed (or I feel like they’ve had the equivalent of enough learning and exploring) they level up to unlocking their screens.

(That’s a brand new development and it happens to be working for us - I don’t judge anyone who gives their kids all day access to screens for regulation.)

For a while my kids would take all day to get their school work done… like they would finish up a lesson and then we’d get ready for bed. This left me zero time to get my easily-distractible ducks in a row the night before, so I’d need to do quick planning the next morning which pushed learning time later and perpetuated a cycle of getting learning done waaaaay too late and not really getting a great handle on things.

That’s when I decided they could level up to screens after their school work was finished - and behold! - after 1 kerfuffle of a week, both kids were on board and consistently finished everything by lunch time.

For me, this meant - all of a sudden - I had peh-lenty of time to plan lessons, create worksheets, screen double the material, etc.

Planning all of a sudden felt like an 80’s movie montage instead of like rushing to clean my room and sticking everything into a doom closet.

I was amazed at the change of energy.

I bought myself an e-reader and I’m reading again with the moments I’ve gained…. I mean, I know, right!?!!

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I’m not saying these planning sheets are life changing.

These pages helped me when I was in an “I’m so done, again - let’s drive to our local public school and sign you up” moment and continue to make planning downright pleasant so I’m releasing them into the ether and if someone finds their way to them and they help click something into place then… huzzah!!

This post was written while drinking my morning homemade caramel latte using PEACE COFFEE — I love the smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning and the sound of no one talking to me while I drink it.

(I don’t do affiliate marketing - I’ve loved Peace Coffee since I found them and think you should check them out - they’re “coffee for people who give a damn.” 🤎)

I want to hear about the simple but amazingly effective planning tools you love! What are they?

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Let’s get right to it while the tea is hot!

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Bill! Bill! Bill! Bill! Bill Nye The Science Guy is what a 90’s nerd would do!

Luckily, there are 138 full episodes/shorts available on YouTube over at the Bill Nye The Science Guy HD channel -OR- a handful of seasons are available on DVD from your local library.

Watch Bill Nye The Science Guy

Reminder: YouTube’s got issues so never leave your child to get “the clicks” unattended with said problematic web app open on your technology.

While The Science Guy’s videos alone will be enough to spark conversations with your kids about all kinds of topic you can find worksheets and lesson plans on various internet sites including TpT and Lesson Planet. Both NOT free options [wah waaaah].

What’s great about videos from Bill Nye The Science Guy is how you can group them by unit/lesson/subject matter. I mean, you could use these videos to plan out a good 6 months of material if you add in some experiments, extensions, and field trips:

Astronomy

• Outerspace

• The Moon

• Comets and Meteors

• Space Exploration

Chemistry

• Phases of Matter

• Atoms

• Heat

Human Body

• Brain

• Blood and Circulation

• Bones and Muscles

• Skin

• Cells

• Germs

• Sound

  • Science of Music

• Eyeball

• Light and Color

• Smell

• Nutrition

Land Forms and Biomes

• Forests

• Caves

• Volcanoes

• Rivers and Streams

• Wetlands

Electricity

• Static Electricity

• Electricity

Physics

• Simple Machines

• Spinning Things

• Balance

• Energy

• Momentum

Scientific Query

• Patterns

• Measurement

• Waves

• Pseudoscience

• Time

• Light and Color

• Pressure

Cycles & Processes

• Biodiversity

• Life Cycles

• Farming

• Garbage

• Earth’s Seasons

• Erosion

• Water Cycle

• Rocks and Soil

• Wind

Oceans and Water

• Oceanography

• Ocean Exploration

• Buoyancy

• Fluids

• Fish

Animals and Insects

• Amphibians

• Invertebrates

• Insects

• Spiders

• Marine Mammals

• Birds

• Reptiles

Past Studies

• Dinosaurs

• Fossils

• Archeology

Structures

• Structures

• Architecture

And MORE!

• Flight

• Transportation

• Communication

• Forensics

• Computers

This show still holds up after 30 years teaching basic science ideas.

The editing feels like a precursor to TikTok in so many ways.

These videos are great for covering large concepts with the potential for finding super fun and interesting tangents/rabbit holes to dive into. Not to mention that many of the experiments they show/discuss can be repeated at home with a little prep.

And I’ll apologize now for the theme song being stuck in your head for the next 3 weeks.

That’s on me.

Today’s post was written after a long un-intended hiatus because hormones are weird and internal voices of shame that I’ve named Janet are super annoying and need to shut the hell up.

Have some hot tea & homeschool!

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Let’s get right to it while the tea is hot!

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TeachRock

TeachRock is a tremendous resource for teaching not only the history of Rock & Roll but the sound and science behind it - as well as the movements (dance AND social justice) it flows through.

I mean, Bono & Springsteen are board members and it was founded by The Boss’ own band member Stevie Van Zandt.

They have units that span elementary education to AP high school courses:

• Math and the Music Industry (middle school)

• Civic Environmentalism (high school, middle school)

• Life Songs: Telling Your Story Through Music (all grades)

• Latin Music & Culture in U.S. History (high school)

• Indigenous Voices in Global Environmental Protection (AP/honors)

• Learn about Muddy Waters, Bob Dylan, and a myriad of Rock figures

• and oh, so much more.

Their lessons touch on music AND:

• civics

• history

• math

• art/design

• social/emotional learning

• social studies/history

• ethnic studies

• science/STEAM

• and the list goes on!

Did I mention this resource is free?

(No affiliate links here, as always.)

After registering with your email their lessons are available to download.

I just completed the lesson plan for How To Study Rock and Roll with my 9-year-old, who recently fell in love with all things Green Day and Red Hot Chili Peppers…

The lesson was a terrific starting point to what turned into an enthusiastic 3-day conversation about retro radio tech and the genius that was Chuck Berry.

My 9-year-old has a special interest in discussing all things Apple apps, so when they could talk about rock music AND the GarageBand app - comparing the recording-booth tech of the 1950s with the record-from-your-living-room tech available today - talk about letting the sun shine in!

Yes, that’s a Hair reference.

Yet another moment when I’m so thankful to be able to be in a position to homeschool and use an incredible resource like TeachRock and be able to adapt it for my kids.

Up next, I’m going to dive into their lesson plan about Celebrating Community With Art with my kids and THEN, just for me, I’m going to go through their Chicana Punk and the Chicano Movement because it looks sooo 🔥 fire 🔥!

Today’s post was written after a long weekend of being covered in puke, snot, and 102.5 degree miserableness of our resident 7-year-old germ attractor and we’re not gonna take it… anymoooooore!

Have some hot tea & homeschool!

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Let’s get right to it while the tea is hot!

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OER Project

OER stands for Open Educational Resource - and this is the mother load relating to history. There are full courses (along with tools and help to teach those courses) for a number of topics:

• Big History Project (grades 6-10)

• Climate (grades 6-10)

• Origins to Present - World History (grades 9-12)

• AP World History (grades 9-12)

You can instead choose to explore their resources by topics in social studies:

• Shifting Populations

• Climate and Geography

• Economic Networks and Trade

• Global Conflict

• Social Upheaval

• Cross-Cultural Exchange

• Technology and Innovation

• Historical Thinking Skills

• Academic Skills

I could list the subtopics here but you need to go and check them out yourself because it is extensive! Did I mention this is open and free?

I’ve previewed the Big History course for my science-minded 9 year-old, who came to me asking to learn more about the history of earth, it’s formation, it’s layers… I feel confident that it’s the right place for us to start.

I love that homeschooling gives me the ability to use a tremendous resource like the OER project and I can adapt the lessons for my kid.

Save PBS

To go along with Big History I wanted to find some science and nature shows and videos that I could use as my kids learn best with visuals. I searched through the PBS catalog of ever growing material and found a few new gems!

EONS & NOVA

I remember watching NOVA on the tv attached to the tall cart in my classroom as a kid… Do you?

While Eons & NOVA are a bit advanced in concepts and language for my kids at the moment, they are on my radar for later.

They have episode collections for topics such as:

• Planet Earth

• Climate Science

• Journeys Through Geologic Time

• Ancient Worlds

• Space & Flight

• and more…

There’s even an Eons episode titled “How Animals Got Butts” - I mean, who WOULDN’T want to watch that?!

Crash Course

I love me some Crash Course! You can also find Crash Course on the PBS app (as well as YouTube).

The larger topic of Big History could absolutely be supported by the astronomy collection of Crash Course videos.

Definitely high school level - but doable for science minded kids doing middle school work - these short 9-14ish minute episodes are packed with facts and ideas that are interesting and thought provoking.

I love that they have other topics like theatre (over 30 episodes - talk about in depth!), botany (15 episodes taught by the incomparable Alexis Nikole “Don’t die!” Nelson), linguistics, computer science, AI, and political theory.

Kurzgesagt

This is a peculiar find. Someone in a homeschool group recommended this resource and I have to say I’ve gone down a little bit of a rabbit hole… and have come out a massive fan.

I now know more about wormholes than I did yesterday - and I’m a huge science fiction nerd so I thought I at least had a good handle on it...

Kurzgesagt is a science and edutainment company out of Germany that produces videos, products (hello, classroom posters!), and interactive experiences (a Steam game, app & VR) that “communicate science in a way that isn’t dry or boring.”

I LOVE their art & animation style and their videos will fill your head with all the questions - because if it was just answers that wouldn’t *actually* be education - that’d be just another instance of indoctrination.

Say it with me: education NOT indoctrination! 🎉

Kurzgesagt’s video scripts are full of what they call optimistic nihilism as well as winks and nods to your favorite science fiction fandoms making them a fun watch.

As always - screen to make sure it’s appropriate for your kiddo.

Today’s post was written amidst re-heating coffee #1 twice, enjoying a shortbread cookie with green/mint tea, and then enjoying coffee #2 because it’s Friday and I didn’t actually want to sleep tonight…

Have some hot tea & homeschool!

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Communicating out loud about bodies and sex to non-fully developed humans can be daunting and uncomfortable. Helping kids make safe & healthy decisions about their bodies (and others bodies) from birth is, luckily, now an area where no shame has to be involved.

Talking AT them, the preferred method of delivering anything sex-ed before 1997, will only leave them to seek their own answers or potentially swallow misinformation as it applies to their unique being.

I mean, learning about sex from a well meaning spotlight search bar or from other kids in their orbit is one type of self-directed learning… 😵

Hey, if you want to leave it up to that and don’t mind sex-ed with a healthy dash of trauma then <two sarcastic thumbs up>.

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Let’s get real here:

Do what’s best for your children, NOT your ego.

Honest and open talks about topics like pleasure, boundaries and consent CAN find a natural place within the relationship between parent and child.

If you feel awkward having these conversations with your kiddo I urge you to unpack *why* that is. The First Conversations FAQ page has some worthwhile reading to help you prepare for approaching this type of content.

It recommends you ask yourself - Why am I feeling uncomfortable? What am I afraid of? What do I need to feel ready to have these talks? And then there’s this gem that gets right to the important bit:

Make a conscious effort to lean into that discomfort.

Whether infant, toddler, kid, tween, or teenager - helping your kids make decisions about their bodies, boundaries and consent sets them up for a life full of (hopefully) safe decisions.

I’m going to start the resources section out with my #1 recommendation - the 3 words I have typed the most in the comments of social media posts asking about sex talk resources - Sex Positive Families.

WEB/BOOK RESOURCE: Sex Positive Families (all ages)

Honestly, this might be the end-all-be-all of resources for families about bodies and sex. I, seriously, could have written this post with only this 1 resource and it would benefit everyone who checks it out.

Everything this amazing group of people does is open, honest, and unapologetic. Sex positive means your attitude towards sex is free of judgement. It emphasizes and supports differences in gender, body type, sexuality, sexual expression, and more.

Subscribe to their emails, buy their books, view their workshops, DO ALL THE THINGS! I was lucky enough to have a 1-on-1 with founder Melissa Pinter Carnagey when they previously offered counseling services and it was a pivotal moment in the development of our family’s ability to use an approach that is shame-free and pleasure-positive.

HIGHLIGHTS

Their resource section is categorized by topic/age - bookmark it for sure.

Every time I visit the Sex Positive Families website I am equal parts amazed and thankful for their resources section. Browse by categories like Bodies, Consent, Disability, Feelings, Pornography, Puberty, Sex Education and more.

Book available: Sex Positive Talks To Have With Kids by Melissa Pintor Carnagey, LBSW

“Sex Positive Talks to Have With Kids” is a fantastic guide to start helping you normalize talks about all things bodies and sex. They have another book coming out this month (May 2025) called “Growing Into You!” and I’m looking forward to it!

Workshops - Education for the whole family

“Online interactive puberty and media/porn literacy workshops and self-paced courses for tweens, teens, and parents of all genders, helping families have shame-free talks, without having to leave the home.”

I’m currently working through the “Growing Into You!” workshop with my oldest and already it’s improved our dialogue and given us common language to work from. HIGHLY recommend.

WEB RESOURCE: Amaze.org and Amaze.org/jr/ (all ages/grades)

Looking for non-cringy videos about uncomfortable topics to watch with your kids?

Look no further than Amaze and Amaze, Jr. LOTS of amazing stuff here for educators and for families. GO for the videos, stay for the educator toolkits.

Still squeamish with the idea of watching videos with your kids? Start with their PODCAST: Become an Askable Parent.

HIGHLIGHTS

Rights, Respect, Responsibility (grades 4 and above)

View school lesson plans that utilize the videos made by Amaze.

Video collection

Start with the intro video for parents and then explore the ones for little kids. Follow your kids curiosity because I’m sure they already have questions.

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WEB RESOURCE: First Conversations website & book series (ages 2-5)

The website I mentioned above, FirstConversations.com, not only has a tremendous amount of resources on their FAQ page - but it’s work culminates in a book series that combines early childhood and activism against injustice and packages it in an easy to read, concrete idea based MUST READ for all children.

These inclusive books cover topics like race, gender, consent, love, bodies, and even grief. Honestly, I wish I had found this resource years ago. Regardless of age I highly recommend this book series. They also include educator guides to go along with some of the books. 10 out of 10 in every aspect.

BOOKS: What Makes a Baby (ages 2-5), Sex Is a Funny Word (ages 8-10), and You Know, Sex (ages 10-12)

Cory Silverberg’s collection is a great resource that covers reproduction, bodies, gender, and sex (of course). It makes space for adults to be able to talk openly about their values while also addressing boundaries, safety, and the thing that most adults sometimes forget in their sex talks: joy.

I adore how, above all else, these books simply show young people how to be a mensch.

“SEX is a Funny Word” is currently getting it’s second read through as my youngest and I are currently going through it and I’m definitely glad it’s part of our library.

I guarantee it’s different than you are picturing in your head. It’s less about the mechanics of sex and more about normalizing that it’s part of society and should be talked about regularly.

BOOK: We Need to Talk About Vaginas: An IMPORTANT Book about Vulvas, Periods, Puberty, and Sex! (ages 10-14)

I put this book on my list the MOMENT I saw it. Like the description says: KNOWLEDGE is POWER, people! Not enough people know the difference between vaginas and vulvas and this book not only explains it ALL but normalizes it ALL. The reviews all say they love this book for it’s “real talk”. Approved! 🏆

BOOK: Bodies Are Cool by Tyler Feder (ages 2-5)

This dynamite book is a truly amazing salute to the fact that BODIES ARE COOL!

It provides a great script for new parents. I can’t tell you how many times I found myself repeating “bodies are cool!” when my kiddos were young and pointed out something their body did - and I still do! It instills confidence which I love.

Everyone’s home library should have a book like this.

Hopefully the resources listed here will help tweak your filter in finding shame-free, pleasure-positive resources for you family. I want to repeat the sentiment:

LEAN into your discomfort.

I promise - you will end up feeling like your favorite version of yourself when you can talk openly with your kids about sex.

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a cup of Ginger Moon tea from Raven and Hummingbird Tea Co. Indigenous owned! Please check them out at rhtea.co!

Because decolonizing your collection of teas is a good place to start doing the work.

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Like vampires, they are highly susceptible to the power of the sun -- their skin burns easy and their eyes are overwhelmed by the light.

I would not be the slightest bit surprised to one day see them fending off an angry mob with pitchforks and wooden stakes. 🧛🏽

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Buddy, my oldest, is visibly more calm on cloudy, rainy days. My youngest, Elf, can ignore the sun to some extent if at a park or doing something novel outside - as long as she has sunglasses.

So, it's frequent that Elf uses her hands to shield the side of her eyes in addition to sunglasses. I always thought it was a brightness thing...

Until one day she was shielding her eyes outside at night. It was nearing the end of dusk -- the sky was a beautiful indigo and a few stars were visible.

I didn't think much of it because there are loads of times she places her hands by her eyes to help her focus on a video or activity or when she sees something interesting.

Some time later, I began to notice that in the moments we pointed out something in the sky or far away (like a cloud, a building, a bird of prey, a kite, or a plane carrying a banner) she would intently look down putting her hand blinders in place. I figured it was hard for her to visually track whatever it was. Or…

I thought it was that pesky sun, again.

Whatever it was, I always have in the back of my mind the sentiment from Dr. Ross Greene:

If you reframe a behavior is it communicating a need?

When Elf covers her eyes in public I do not correct her behavior by forcing her hands down. I don’t see anything wrong with it. Placing her hands like blinders on the side of her eyes obviously brings comfort. If someone thinks my kid is weird then that’s on them.

Even other members of our family will continue to say “Look! Look at that!” and try to get her to look up and I will need to remind them that she doesn’t have to look up at the thing in the sky if she doesn’t want to.

It wasn't until I adapted MY routine — doing that reminding so pushy people will stop trying to get her to do something that obviously makes her uncomfortable — that my brain made the connection... buzz 💡 click!

There's something about the sky itself that's causing stress…

Elf is a Gestalt Language Processor and so she communicates differently. Many times I will ask her a question and in response she will use a gestalt, or script, altered in a way that will relate to what I'm asking.

Most of the time I can successfully interpret what she means and other times I have to think on it before I understand it. Occasionally, I will miss something completely.

In addition to GLP, she's situationally mute and a concrete thinker.

Many people assume concrete thinkers can't apply what they observe directly to other situations and aren't making further connections.

I whole heartedly disagree.

Verbalizing abstract ANYTHING has always been a difficulty of mine. I heavily rely on analogies to communicate with others in an effort to make sure I'm understood and that I understand what's happening.

Concrete thinkers simply may be reacting strongly in the present; the tangents of things that are related but not particularly applicable to right here, right now are low priority and exist in the background.

I recall asking Elf about the sun before... but never the sky. Of course, if I ask a question about the sun she will give an answer… relating to the sun.

So, one night when we finished reading before bed, I said:

Me: Can I ask you a question?

Elf: *softly* mm-hmm.

Me: I noticed sometimes it’s overwhelming when someone tells you to look up at the sky. You like to look down. [Paused for processing] What’s happening in the sky that makes you feel anxious?

Elf: *softly* Space. The sky is so big.

Great Scott!!

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I thanked her for sharing that with me.

My brain had been hit with 1.21 Gigawatts of electricity. ⚡︎

I swear, I practically jolted around her room like Doc Brown running around his garage.

The vastness of space & the sky and orienting herself IN that space is overwhelming.

Buh-buh-buh-bingo!

As soon as she was asleep I told my partner… who admitted he was listening to the conversation 😍 Together, we thought of ideas to help reduce her visual field in an effort to focus her brain on what’s in front of her - instead of leaving her brain to hyper-processes everything outside, especially that disorienting sky.

A hat, a parasol, an umbrella… these are now items I’ve added to our sensory bag.

I felt such relief to see the situation holistically. A need will be met and any stress - hopefully - would be reduced.

So, the next morning we tried out a hat. A cute, sparkly hat with velcro and a hole for her pony tail.

I learned that she does NOT want to wear it in the car - but as soon as we pulled into the parking lot at OT she asked for her new cap. 🧢

Walking from the car to the doors, Elf held the brim of her hat and said: “I think it’s working… I think it’s working! I think it’s WORKIIIING!”

YUSSSS!!

Taking the hat off in the car on the way home we discovered that hats with velcro are not so good for her hair — so finding the right tool - as always - is a work in progress. We’ll get there 😌

Behavior is so often communication. The sky is so big, so I’m gonna cover my eyes. Would she have taken care of herself by covering her eyes if I hadn’t connected the dots? You betcha.

My hope is that giving her tools that work in conjunction with her brain and body and how they process this world will allow her to thrive and feel less stress.

If you notice your child feeling overwhelmed by certain situations I hope you won’t correct their behavior — instead consider the ‘why’ and address it as part of a bigger picture.

Here’s to “the sky is big” moments. Believe your child and support them.

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Today’s post was written on the go at OT with a cup full of Starbucks Iced Vanilla Latte Espresso drink 🤤🤤🤤 because I don’t have to treat myself for pushing through - I can treat myself in this tiny moment of sunshine to help ground my hope that everything is going to be okay.

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I flicked through whatever was on the screen and saw a social media comment from a homeschooling caregiver talking about how they just switched their homeschool schedule to 4 weeks ON and 1 week OFF year round.

My brain held that idea in cue until I had a freshly made cup of coffee in hand and I was sitting at my desk in the kitchen.

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4 weeks ON, 1 week OFF… My brain powered up and the more I considered what it would be like to homeschool year round for 4 weeks ON and 1 week OFF it just made sense. My first few thoughts:

Vacations

We are not a family that does vacations so in that regard there are no benefits to a 12-week long Summer off. We’re homebodies, so 🤷🏽.

Back to School

The “Autumn adjustment” - that first 3 weeks of school that feels like a waste because its only function is to re-adjust kids to the schedules and demands of a “school day’… is something we dealth with even as eclectic unschoolers. Getting back into learning mode in Autumn is absolutely a thing.

Planning

With 4 weeks ON, 1 week OFF I would be able to plan things 4 weeks at a time - which for my ADHD, anxiety ridden brain is completely doable. When I plan the start of a regular year in September it always seems like I plan some things less, some things more, and then get all screwed up when a butterfly flaps its wings somewhere and I’m compelled to curriculum jump or change up learning content.

Having a week off after 4 weeks of school means I could not only plan in doable amounts using resources like the ones I talk about in my last post that you can read here:

BUT I could also make sure I RETRO-PLANNED our goals for the month (or catch up on daily documentation).

House Community

I was starting to sell myself on the idea with another reason: it dawned on me that cleaning around the house will be a heck of a lot easier. I’ll have a week to get to all of the cleaning I need (er… the cleaning the kids don’t help with… yet) and do a good de-clutter. It takes just about 4 weeks to get to cartoon messiness status around our house after a good cleaning so it seemed like a good plan!

So, I decided to switch it up. I grabbed a yearly calendar print out and brought out my highlighter.

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It took me 3 tries but I eventually planned out the entire year - the most effective way was to start looking at December and then moving backwards since I wanted to match holidays/time off at the end of the year with my spouse and family. Since we’re already schooled about 8 weeks into the new year without a break I had to wiggle in some OFF weeks after only 3 weeks, which was okay by me!

I ended up over scheduling days (204 in total) so that we have a solid 24 days to play with: sick days, dysregulated days, a Friday off here and there, vacations if we ever took any… It made so much sense and I was ecstatic to switch us in this direction while the kids are still young.

By the next night, I had not only planned our calendar for the entire year -- I had also planned 80% of school ideas for our first 4 week cycle.

Everything felt like there was a natural pause in sight which made it easy (and kind of fun) to plan:

• I could fit in (4) 1-week long lessons for science so I printed off what I needed for activities. We love Mystery Science!

• I wrote down 4 topics to explore for bodies and sexual health education that we could visit during a week

• My oldest does 1 math lesson per day on Zearn, like clockwork, so I wrote down the next 20 lessons and prepared any printables.

• I found free art videos/lessons on PBSLearningMedia.org and planned them out.

• I found 2 new books (“Donut Feed The Squirrels) for my youngest to use with her Treasure Hunt Reading program (free!) and wrote down her schedule figuring we cover material for 1-lesson over 2 days.

• I left ample time for self-directed learning

It *just so happened* that when I finalized the calendar we would immediately be taking a week off. I didn’t want to, initially, but if I was already able to do all of this planning and re-organizing in 2 days I felt like I could change the world having an entire week.

So, I let it ride… and do you know what happened on our first “day off”??

The kids decided to do a deep dive into country flags 🤣🤣🤣 We found ourselves jumping on flags they drew in a friendly competition. In 5 minutes, my kids could successfully recognize the flags for Canada, Somalia, Nigeria, Mexico, France, Germany, USA, China, Brazil, India, Japan and Singapore.

The game was such a hit I decided to find our country flag flashcards (that were super old and outdated so I plan on getting new ones) and do 10 new flags every week.

Add THAT to the new schedule! Check!

I accomplished SOOO much during that first week off besides school stuff: I checked a book off my reading list, connected with another homeschooling family in the area, started working out again,… the only thing that hasn’t changed was my ability to catch up on the dishes in the sink, but hey! That’s more my ADHD than not having the time. 🙃

Having the pressure off every 4 weeks and then re-charging for a week is going to be amazing and I’m so excited!

What do you think of a year round 4 weeks ON, 1 week off schedule?

If you are considering 4 weeks ON, 1 week OFF at all I highly suggest giving it a try!

I will post updates once we get a few cycles in. Until then have some hot tea and homeschool!

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Update: It’s been a year since we switched to 4 weeks ON, 1 week OFF and we will never go back! It’s worked out amazingly well for our family. The natural breaks that this schedule provides help us stay regulated as well as inspired.

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a brown sugar tea latte with British Breakfast tea from The Republic of Tea, frothed milk, brown sugar and vanilla extract.

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The following resources I’ve visited and vetted myself. There are many that didn’t make the list — Some I left out on purpose because I didn’t find them accessible, found them not to be secular, they didn’t seem to be inclusive or had problematic content. I’m not one to waste your time with a resource just so I can pad my list to make me seem more put-together than I am.

These are my favorites to use & recommend or I plan on using later in our homeschooling. (And as always - no affiliate links here; simply recommending to help others!)

The costs range from FREE to $$$. These resources are places I’ve purchased from or used myself or found & researched in the Secular & Decolonizing Homeschooling and Strictly Secular + Inclusive Homeschooling groups that are on Discord — I suggest you join!

All-in-one/Multiple Topics/Educator Resources

• PBS Learning Media | “FREE, curriculum-aligned videos, interactives, lesson plans, and more” ← One of the resources I use the most 👓

• Growing Toward Liberation | “Family and educator resources for growing toward collective liberation and a more inclusive world.”

• The Black Apple Curriculum | “Curriculum with a Core: Community, Opportunity, Responsive, and Equity”

• How To Survive Middle School book series | Middle school level curriculum books for English, Math, and more.

• Blossom & Root | “Creative, flexible, hands-on curriculum for secular homeschooling families with a focus on nature, literature, STEM, and art”. Their River of Voices unit is a gentle introduction to history.

• TedEd | “Discover hundred of animated lessons, create customized lessons, and share your big ideas.” FREE!

• Crash Course | “From courses like Astronomy to US History and Anatomy & Physiology it's got you covered with an awesome variety of AP high school curriculum topics.” FREE!

• Kind Academy | “Kind Academy is a network of innovative learning programs that specializes in supporting unique, gifted, and neurodiverse learners.”

• Mint & Bloom | “Creative and thoughtful secular learning” ← My oldest is working though the Melancholy Grammar unit. Hilarious! 🧟

Bodies, Relationships and Sexual Health

• Sex Positive Families | “Sex Positive Families provides the education and resources that help families raise sexually healthy children.” ← THEEEEE top resource I’ve recommended over the years 💯

• 3Rs | Rights, Respect, Responsibility. “Search, explore, and download lesson plans from our K-12 Sexuality Education Curriculum.”

History/Social Studies

• Learning For Justice | “Learning for Justice seeks to uphold the mission of the Southern Poverty Law Center: to be a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements and advance the human rights of all people.”

• History Smashers book series | The Mayflower book in this series, while not perfect (like all history curricula), impressed Kelly Tudor and if SHE is impressed by something I pay attention. 🤓 (Here’s a link to her Outschool profile as well)

• Black History 365 | “Our purpose is to create cutting-edge resources that invite students, educators, and other readers to become critical thinkers, compassionate listeners, fact-based, respectful communicators and action-oriented solutionists.“

• Curiosity Chronicles | This company addresses problematic content brought to their attention. Heavy reading; audio available. May not fit all ND learners.

• Hidden Voices: Stories of the Global African Diaspora | “This guide is intended to help teachers develop pedagogical content knowledge about the global African diaspora and its history.”

• Woke Homeschooling | “Oh! Freedom: A Conscious US History Curriculum” is currently working on updating their curriculum to include 2SLGBTQ+ figures and topics within it’s lessons and are open to growth.

Native Studies

• Native Knowledge 360° | “Transforming teaching and learning about Native Americans” ← The Smithsonian is getting it right.

• Daigwade Project Gallery | “Diagwade offers a collection of coloring books and cultural guides to help your family learn about Shoshone Culture together.” ← Found this in the Secular & Decolonizing group. Such a great find! 💛

• Chickasaw Nation Curriculum | Yet another resource recommended by Kelly Tudor.

• Illuminative | Native studies: “Fight against Native invisibility and erasure.”

ELA

• Abundant Freedom | “Diverse & Inclusive Language Arts Curriculum for Grades K-8” ← Previously called “Curriculum & Culture”.

• Logic of English | “Combining the science of reading with the joy of learning.”

• Pinwheels | “A comprehensive reading & writing curriculum for beginners.”

• Read Like A Rockstar! | “The spot for engaging K-2 ideas and resources.” ← I wish I had my act together like Naomi 💫

• Mystery Writing | Mystery Science has branched out with Mystery Writing! The same great videos with low/no-prep, just print and go materials!

Math + Finance

• FitMoney’s $upersquad | “FitMoney provides FREE and unbiased financial literacy programs to empower children with critical life skills for a financially fit future.” ← I read about this resource recently - so excited to get started with it! 💰

• Math With Confidence | “help your child learn math with confidence, and empower you to teach math with confidence” ← I have not tried this one myself but others in homeschool groups talk about it a lot in a positive ways. If we need to cycle out of Zearn for a bit I would try this one. 🙂

• ZEARN | “FREE Math learning platform that helps kids explore concepts, discover meaning, and make sense of math.” (PK-8) ← GREAT for ND learners: their videos use clear language and visuals and the workspace is distraction free. I wish Mr. Sawicki was my math teacher! 💙

Languages + Music

• Endangered Language Alliance | “A non-profit dedicated to documenting Indigenous, minority, and endangered languages, supporting linguistic diversity”

• Homeschool Languages | “building blocks for a bilingual home”

• Fyütch! Music Lessons | “Focusing on social justice and social-emotional learning through music. These educational materials are carefully crafted and integrates music seamlessly into core curriculums and creates engaging and impactful learning experiences for all students.”

SCIENCE

• Mystery Science | “Mystery Science is an innovative, standards-aligned, hands-on curriculum that teaches children how to think like scientists.” ← My kids love MS. The videos are great for ND learners and the activities are no/low prep and always engaging! 🔬

• Indigenous Steam | “We learn from plants through our experiences with them, whether it be harvesting medicines, growing food in a garden, or simply paying attention to what grows around us.” ← fantastic plant units 💚

• Gender Inclusive Biology | “To support all students, present & future, we must adapt existing biology teaching to grow a gender-inclusive curriculum.”

• Science Mom (+ Math Dad) | “Science Mom and Math Dad teach self-paced courses using a secular curriculum.”

• Teach Engineering | “FREE K-12 STEM curriculum”

• NASA | So. much. science! So. many. programs!

PLANNING + SUPPLIES

• Plum Paper | Custom planners and calendars. $$$ but worth it for the ability to customize. I do all my retro-planning in one.

• Goblin Tools | Task breakdown-er. ← GREAT tool for those days when your executive function was left on the counter with your cold tea.

For DIGITAL/TECHNOLOGY/MEDIA LITERACY check out my last post: Technology & Media Literacy Resources.

Have some hot tea and click away!

Today’s post was compiled while enjoying a brown sugar tea latte ☕️

🥣 and lots of handfuls of cereal because regulating with crunchy food is what I dooooooo.

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I’m a baby-gen-x-er (or elder millennial if you prefer) and my family was the first on the block to have a personal computer. Not many people remember Prodigy - the pre-web online service that was released in 1988 - even before the skreeeeeee-skreeeee-skawerawer&@($&*#*) of AOL - and, hole-y cheese, the awful things that happened to kids stumbling around with access to email and the baby internet…

Thank goodness we can teach our kids about the pros and cons of technology and the interwebs before anything too traumatic happens. This is why RIGHT NOW! is a great time to plan a media literacy unit lesson for your homeschool.

Let’s get to it! Here are resources to help you facilitate learning focused on media & technological literacy that will help you navigate the “tech talk” with your family as part of your homeschool curriculum.

You know your child and their academic level - I’ve included descriptors based on what the material says so feel free to use whatever level is appropriate for your child. All resources are secular as far as I’ve researched and get the approval from my neurodivergent filter 🤓.

WEB RESOURCES

PBSLearningMedia (all ages/grades)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ruff Ruffman: Humble Media Genius (grades K-2, 3-5)

  • This small set of videos shows the beloved Ruff Ruffman addressing how kids use technology. Great beginnings to talk about texting, sharing photos and conducting internet searches.

• News Media Literacy Collection (grades 6-8, 9-12)

  • This collection from PBSLearningMedia has a plethora of materials (including lesson plans, handouts and videos) to help kids break down news and information form online sources. Some topics include fake news, fact checking, and navigating the web.

• Be MediaWise (grades 6-8, 9-12)

  • This material developed by PBS NewsHour Student Report Labs and MediaWise hits on important subjects such as evaluating sources and navigating artificial intelligence. You can also check out their Teen Fact-Checking Network (TFCN). Our neighbors to the North can check out the Canadian counter part here: SmartsMedia.ca.

• Technological Literacy Collection (all grades)

  • This large collection is the catch all for everything on PBSLearningMedia relating to technological literacy. You can find additional information to help you have important discussions that touch on things like “YouTube Algorithms”, “Can You Trust Influencers on YouTube?”, “Clickbait and Misinformation”, “How Predictive Algorithms Can Contain Bias” and more!

THOUGHTS

This is a great place to start. The Ruff Ruffman videos, especially, are highly re-watchable.

Ad Fontes Media (middle/high school)

This interactive media bias chart will help middle/high schoolers see the political leanings/reliability of news sources they may use for school or view at home.

Checkology (middle/high school)

Signing-up for Checkology is free and definitely worth a look. They have 11 lessons focused on topics like InfoZones, Democracy’s Watchdog, Understanding Bias, and Conspiratorial Thinking.

Thinking is Power (All grades, mostly middle/high school)

Thinking is Power helps educators incorporate critical thinking, information, literacy, and science literacy skills lessons into their curriculum.

• HIGHLIGHTS

  • Whether you use one of their tools for educators like an interactive toolkit, an assignment such as “Wake up, Sheeple!” or start your littles with a nature scavenger hunt that will have your kids investigating their surroundings — there is a little something for everyone.

Their resource list is something you definitely want to check out.

TheSmartTalk.org (all ages)

Norton and the National PTA partner to help “families feel safer and more empowered in their digital lives.” Your journey begins with a quiz about privacy & safety that will get you thinking about transparency and collaboration with your kiddo as far as technology goes. Definitely check this out.

Cat Park (ages 15+)

This is a brilliant game about disinformation. Per it’s FAQ: “The game simulates the tactics and techniques of media manipulation that are used in the real world to exploit social tensions for personal or political gains.” It all begins with a strange DM about a “cat park” and leads you on a choose-your-own-adventure type experience. Users will encounter techniques of media manipulation used in the real world that sow division so that others benefit.Per the developers: “playing the game builds cognitive resistance against common forms of manipulation that you may encounter online.” They also provide a media literacy lesson plan in their FAQs for your use. You definitely want to add Cat Park to your resource list.

Calling Bullshit (high school)

Calling Bullshit: Data Reasoning in a Digital World is a fantastic resource for high school students as well as parents!

Designed as a course for the University of Washington by Carl Bergstrom and Jevin West, Calling Bullshit is rife with resources, including a playlist of recordings from the first time the course ran in the Spring of 2017 available on the UW Information School’s YouTube channel.

CenterForNewsLiteracy.org (middle/high school)

Stony Brook University’s School of Journalism created the Center for News Literacy. It seems their site hasn’t been given much love in the past couple years - but I still found helpful information.

• HIGHLIGHTS

  • Lesson Plans (grades 6-12)

  • Resource list (Every fact-checker your kiddo will ever need...)

News and Media Literacy Center (all ages)

Common Sense Media’s sister site Common Sense Education has opportunities for learners of all ages to become more fluent with media literacy.

• HIGHLIGHTS

  • Lesson Plans (all grades)

Crash Course (middle-ish school)

An absolute favorite (free!) resource: Crash Course not only has a whole course about navigating digital information but they also have a course specifically for media literacy.

Media Literacy resource section from Sex Positive Families (All ages)

Media & Porn literacy are equally important and share many overlapping ideas. The “sex talk” and the “tech talk” are no longer exclusive and to help you with those scary ideas are the many resources listed on their website.

HIGHLIGHTS

Sex Positive Families offers a Media & Porn literacy workshop called “Growing Into You!” and I will tell you it’s absolutely worth. every. penny.

Books

Killer Underwear Invasion! (8-12 year olds)

I fanout over Elise Gravel - love her!! “Pink, Blue, and You!” and “What is a Refugee?” are two of my all time favorites and Killer Underwear Invasion! How to Spot Fake News, Disinformation & Conspiracy Theories looks to be just as awesome! “A hilarious and timely tool to help kids learn how to tell what news is true and what isn’t.” This has been on my booklist since it came out and I will be using this with my eldest next year. I highly, HIGHLY recommend anything she writes.

Mad for Ads: How Advertising Gets (and Stays) in Our Heads (10-12 year olds)

“Relevant, child-friendly language and examples, along with bold and humorous illustrations by Ian Turner, keep the pages lively and interesting. There are direct curriculum links to language arts, visual arts, technology and social studies lessons.” This book by Erica Fyvie comes highly recommended from teachers and students alike.

Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots by Michael Rex (5-8 year olds)

Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots by Michael Rex is new on my booklist and I can’t wait to add it to our library. One of the first discussions to have with little kiddos about media literacy is simply knowing the difference between what is a fact and what is opinion. And they do this using ROBOTS?! Beep boop beep boop boop! (that’s robot for “so excited!”)

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill (8-12 year olds)

“Magical” is the word most people use when they describe this book. It can facilitate meaningful discussions about the power of knowledge and how large groups of people can be controlled by fear.

If your kiddo is sensitive I would wait until they’re older to read as it talks about sacrifice — village leaders use fear to control their community by sacrificing the newest baby, leaving them out in the woods under the guise of appeasing “the witch” in the woods which they don’t actually think there is…

Not only is there ACTUALLY a witch but she rescues the babies and feeds them magical moonlight before leaving them in the care of families in other villages.

A Firehose of Falsehood: The Story of Disinformation (high school)

Part of World Citizen Comics: this new resource was *just* released February 13, 2024. Definitely adding to my book list.

On The Internet: Our First Talk About Online Safety By Dr. Jillian Roberts (5-8 year olds)

Tremendously helpful in some of the first “tech talks” I had with my kids. We keep this on the shelf and re-visit from time to time.

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The Big Fib Podcast

One kid, two experts. The challenge is for the kid to figure out which is an *actual* expert and which on is lying.

My suggestion, as with all things, is to model best practices and narrate your thoughts and feelings as you are doing so. This is called declarative language and it is a low-pressure way to engage your child’s brain — as opposed to telling them how or why to do things.

“These search results brought up soooo many things - my brain feels overwhelmed with all of these choices. I’m not going to rush into clicking something because I want to make sure what I DO click is safe for us.”

Or another example:

“Hmmm… The person in this video is not an astronomer and when they explain things it’s not clear for my brain. I really want to learn about our solar system from someone who studies planets. I wonder what words I can use to change my search to find an astronomer?”

If you need any help in forming declarative language I highly recommend The Declarative Language Handbook.

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This is by no means an exhaustive resource list. These are only the resources I've stumbled upon myself as well as had time to vette. I came across a few that were not worth my time (or yours) so hopefully this is a good starting point.

Remember - media literacy can be a tricky topic for younger kids. You may be introducing concepts that unknowingly ignite fear or uncertainly — especially with sensitive children. I encourage you, as the expert in your child, to check out these resources and adapt them to your families needs.

Today’s post was written while enjoying a tea latte using Morning Blend Organic Black Tea from Fraser Teas. Not an affiliate link - just want to support local businesses!

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Be sure to read A Gentle Kid’s TV Guide - Part 1 to see a list of television shows that my sensitive kids approve that may be appropriate viewing for your gentle kid, as well as an added resource for your homeschool.

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Just a quick recap: this television guide is coming from a neurodiverse household where screen time is not limited but instead used as a tool for learning and regulation. As long as we are not in the middle of a lesson, or using an episode for learning, the TV can be on. My kids happen to prefer it off.

We used to limit screen time - especially when the kids were younger but as their neurodivergence unfurled and I recognized their use of screens as regulation, communication or learning, I took the reigns off. (And caught a lot of flack for doing so). We went through a short period of constant use while the kids learned to regulate themselves and now they have a healthy balance as far as our family life is concerned.

That doesn’t mean I took the parental controls off….

That doesn’t mean I stopped paying attention to what their watching…

It means their screens are always available if they NEED them.

When it comes to the television, “gentle” or educational shows are what my kids choose. I’m thankful for that.

I see parents in online groups in either one of 2 groups: those that severely limit their kid’s screen time -OR- those who understand the valuable use of screen time for regulation and learning and ask for television or media related to learning and homeschool. That’s the reason behind compiling all of this information.

I previously shared what shows to watch and re-watch — now let me guide you on what shows to avoid and run away from.

Note: I’m sticking with television shows and not YouTube videos for this part of the review as well.

I need to talk about a few shows that fall right in the middle.

Shows on The Fence…

Shows that have as many cons as they do pros. Do they deserve airtime on your screen? It’s up to you.

Arthur (PBSKids)

It’s learning goal states “relationships” but Arthur and his friends are constantly mean to each other… Most episodes could be concluded real quick if they modeled open and honest discussions but every character is fettered by their overactive imaginations (which, I guess, is the point of the show) and so they opt out of that honest discussion.

Also, Arthur is rarely nice to his little sister (which made an impression on our oldest towards our youngest) and Arthur’s mom & dad and other adults are depicted as fairly authoritarian.

For concrete learners especially, I would not recommend, but take a watch and see for yourself. It was cancelled after a long 25 years on the air…

The Wiggles

I’m not embarrassed to say that we went through a Wiggles phase in our house. They got my kids up and moving - that’s for sure! Super educational? Not really. But they surprise me once in a while… Most of their educational content is buried under consumerist, in-Wiggles-world repeated nonsense.

Music and tunes: Decent.

Promotion of exercise and dance: Excellent.

Commercialism: Flagrant.

IF they took all the time they sing about their branding and instead sang about educational material they would be a powerhouse.

I love the generational aspect and they’re on a roll with inclusion. I’d love to see some editing though — 8 Wiggles!?…

Sorry, sorry… I still get a little angry about the time their “Vegan Hot Dog” song got stuck in my head for a solid month.

… … …

… …

Oh crap…. “A vegan… hot dog! A vegan… hot dog! A vegan hot dog on a cooooool Summer’s day…” 💛❤️💜💙

Xavier Riddle and The Secret Museum

In PBS Kids fashion this show has good intentions — but they may have bite off more than they could chew when trying to combine history with social emotional learning. This creates pockets of problematic content. I wrote out different examples of those cringey components but it turned into a whole post of its own so I’ll hit the highlights:

• skirts the truth about settler colonialism (Jigonsaseh, Theodore Roosevelt as well as Mt. Rushmore in the opening credits)

• incorporates ideas that are clearly American propaganda (Sacagawea, Abraham Lincoln, soooo many others)

• victim blames people of color instead of pointing out racists or systemic racism (Jessie Owens, Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, [whose episode was apparently banned due to it’s whitewashing of history and shared the mentality of making friends with racists] and Harriet Tubman - don’t get me started about how the language they chose to explain the racial power dynamics - it’s sometimes hard to watch).

• lack of disabled people shown in a non-objectifying, accepting way. There’s so much happening for the benefit of non-disabled people on this show and that makes me sad and angry… or sangry? Angrad? You know what I mean.

  • Wilma Rudolph’s episode features just what I’m talking about: “No matter where you start you can always get better” is inspiration porn (<— learn more about that idea here) and completely ableist.

  • I know about the Temple Grandin episode — she was one of the first openly Autistic people and I give her kudos for that. Unfortunately, she is not looked upon favorably within the Autistic community because of her ableist views (read Cassandra Crosman’s article “Why Temple Grandin is Not My Hero” to learn more).

Xavier Riddle is good when it’s good, though... They could have gone the social-emotional learning route and done without the (many times inaccurate, never decolonized, "oh but we’re just “inspired” by) history angle. It ends up being a mess of what feels like teaching “cute” history and history is never cute.

Be careful with this show — some episodes need moments to pause for discussion.

Shows To Avoid

I’d consider all of these to be either harmful, loud or annoying and provide no beneficial learning opportunities (as far as our gentle viewing/neurodiverse household is concerned). I’m focusing on recent productions and not anything prior to 2005 (like SpongeBob or Ren & Stimpy) because 98% of kids programming back then was awful. I’m sure there are lots more I could add to this list…

Blippi

A grown person playing with toys who acts like a toddler. Just no. It’s condescending to kids. Not to mention super annoying for parents. Blippi is the persona of a guy who got famous for a video that showed him pooping on another person. I’m all for learning from mistakes… but the whole thing is cringey.

Micky Mouse Clubhouse

Little educational value - vehicle for Disney consumerism.

Peppa Pig

Want to show your kids an example of a bully? Show them Peppa Pig. She bullies, constantly whines, fat-shames, and the show gives general encouragement to being mean.

Paw Patrol

Rife with misogyny and authoritarianism. Hard pass.

Vampirina

Lots of lying. Another show that would have 2 minutes episodes if their characters would opt for honesty instead of lying.

Thomas & Friends

Sexism is at the top of its problem list — followed by classism and anti-environmentalism.

Calliou

Calliou is spoiled, whines all the time and engages in behavior you don’t want your child mimicking.

Harriet The Spy

Couldn’t even get through the first episode. It starts off with needing a tooth pulled - really?! - a tooth she personifies as General George Washington. Just nope.

CoCoMelon

Just no. So creepy I can feel them trying to brainwash kids. Set it on fire and run away 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Henry Danger [or most Nickelodeon produced shows]

I watched an episode with my 7 year old thinking it would be appropriate - and it was NOT. The hero/mentor was not only mean and condescending to those he mentored - he also trapped a character who was trying to help a friend and then would tell everyone that she was lying and shouldn’t be believed. She was the only black, female representation on the show… and that’s how her character was treated. So telling of our society…

I had hope that this would harken back to shows of my youth that would incorporate a lesson or moral - like Full House or Saved By The Bell - and WOW, that didn’t happen. The episode started out talking about privacy and placing cameras where they could spy on people. THEY NEVER RESOLVED THIS in any way and simply did it - no one said it was wrong, no one took accountability, nor did anyone apologize.

Never watching again.

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a cup of Healing Tea from Sakari Farms.

Sakari Farms is a Native owned (Inupiaq) tribal farm and educational business. Please check them out! They have a great selection of hot sauces. 🔥 I DO NOT receive anything in return for raving about their products!

The 90’s brought about Barney 🤮 and Bill Nye The Science Guy but, overall, the amount of truly educational content was pretty nil until Blue’s Clues arrived.

Don’t get me started on the lack of social-emotional shows for tweens and teens…. My mind was practically blown the first time I saw an episode of the original Degrassi… But I digress.

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TV is absolutely a part of education in our house.

While my kids enjoy educational media produced today, I’M THE ONE who’s more vested in what we’re watching — partly because of the void of education programs when I was young, partly for ongoing evaluations for homeschool lessons and also, well... because it’s so damn fulfilling!

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When you are part of a neurodiverse household screen time can be a tool for regulation — so as long as we are not in the middle of learning, or using an episode for a lesson, the TV can be on. Some weeks it’s constantly on as a comfort in the background — other weeks the kids don’t ask for it until dinnertime or not at all…

My children watch and re-watch PBS Kids shows. It’s practically a member of our family. It helps boost emotional intelligence, provides a feeling of comfort, helps them feel restored and reinforces learning concepts. So I’m okay with that.

From the time my kids were little it was important to me that a show had a purpose. Back in those days IF the TV was on it was my requirement that it provided an educational, physical or artistic opportunity.

Nothing mindless.

That is the start of how I got my reputation as the family buzzkill, by the way…

It also had to be gentle viewing. No overly loud shows allowed. I was in the middle of a years long undiagnosed Autistic and ADHD burnout - and I absolutely could not physically deal with any show that was shouty or loud in any way.

I firmly believe that some of the shows we introduced to our kids at 1.5 or 2 years old helped them develop skills that are essential parts of their being.

Now, the kids are 6 and 8 and prefer educational media - which I’m thankful for. Both still prefer television episodes over movies or anything that has “epic” feelings -- with “Encanto” being the ONLY exception— because those can be way too much of an emotional rollercoaster.

After a few awful attempts at movies, I gave up on them and never looked back. Honestly, movies throw around soooo much loaded dialogue that kids who are concrete learners can be turned off to the whole movie going experience.

Like throwing around the concept of death in a children’s movie. WHY? What the heck for? So often death is referenced in response to something inconvenient and that’s NOT cool. Example: The Lego Movie, rated 6+ years: President Business demands the Piece de Resistance (which Emmet has) and Lucy responds with “We'd rather he die than give it to you.” 😧😫. Clean up on aisle 6.

THAT was a fun night… NOT.

Don’t even get me started on the horrendous-ness that is any Disney movies prior to 2020…

My kids do better with “gentle” programs so that’s what I find for them.

So, I’ve decided to compile a list of television shows that come recommended from our neurodiverse household that have value as part of a homeschool curriculum.

Note: I’m sticking with television shows and not YouTube videos for this review. I do include one web series which I provide the direct link to their website. YouTube (yes, even YT Kids) is an incredibly problematic online space but that’s another post altogether.

Consider this a gentle kid’s TV guide - which shows to watch and include in homeschool lessons — be sure to read part 2 where I explore shows your family should avoid.

As always: be sure to screen material before showing your kids to make sure it is appropriate for your family.

For the Littlest of Littles

Gentle, quiet shows that inspire kids of all ages.

Classical Baby

An HBO original, this classical baby series was part of our pre-bedtime routine for the longest time. An abundance of art, music, dance and poetry will help your kids feel inspired. This series includes: The Music Show, The Art Show, The Dance Show, The Poetry Show, and The Lullaby Shows.

Learning areas include: music appreciation, visual art, storytelling, world & culture, poetry, dance, regulation, and more.

TreeTop Family

An adorable 16-episodes series that my kids loved when they were toddlers. Families of birds, squirrels, mice, opossums, and raccoons learn and explore around their big oak tree!

Each episode features an original song — all adorable, all educational. Perfect for preschool & kindergarten! They include some coloring printables on their website to go along with each episode.

Sarah & Duck

My oldest’s first word was “quack!” if that tells you anything about this show. Sarah and her bread-loving pal, Duck, are part of a whimsical world where simple yet somehow magical things seem to happen all around. Friendship, imagination, curiosity and problem-solving are themes throughout this BBC produced show.

Kids of all ages adore Sarah & Duck. Adults included… Duck is one of my all-time favorite animated characters. It’s also terrific for artsy kids who will find the whimsy of Sarah’s world full of inspiration.

You’ll want to skip “Train Fudge” and “Hedge Opera” — the only overwhelmingly noisy episodes in the bunch. Sarah & Duck’s 7-minute episodes will leave your kid’s creative juices flowing.

The Classics

Sesame Street

There’s a reason why Sesame Street has been on television since 1969. Anything considered radical at that time, like Sesame Street, was bound to have staying power. The show has grown with it’s audiences over the years, transforming early childhood education and leading the way in cultural representation in the media.

Blue’s Clues & You

I was 15 when the original Blue’s Clues came out — I LOVED Steve and still plotz every time I see him on the new Blue’s Clues & You! The routine of this show is so incredibly comforting. No surprises. I think that’s one of the reasons even MY body balances into safe mode while watching this show. It’s calm yet full of joy — and then they’ll throw in a musical number that will get you dancing!

The creators are not afraid to give space for kids to feel engaged and give them time to think about what’s on the screen. I love that!

Not to mention Josh is ADORABLE in every way. His little actor moments create such a rich world that you want to keep watching episode after episode.

New Classics

Bluey

Way back in January 2020 when Bluey first appeared on Disney+ streaming, I shrugged as I gave the banner a click and within 60 seconds I *knew* that it would be a phenomenon. A show all about play — what a concept! Not only do kids get blueprints to play fun games for real life like “Magic Xylophone” and “Grannies” — but it shows parents how it’s done.

The secret? Commit to the bit.

The animation, writing, music, and my goodness the voice talent, all combine to create nothing short of magic. A show just as much for adults as it is for kids — it’s like play therapy for your soul. (For real — my partner and I wind up happy crying after most episodes.)

Plus, lots of activities on their website! Their video showing the members of their music team inspired my youngest to start learning the piano (for a few days anyway…).

Molly of Denali

Molly of Denali can only be described as lightening in a bottle. What I mean by that is: this show about an Alaskan Native and her community - is produced with over 88 different Indigenous contributors - writers, producers, voice actors, musicians,… and it shows. This is absolutely the flagship show of PBS Kids as far as I’m concerned.

Creating stories that are inclusive and authentic is absolutely possible as Molly of Denali’s producers have proved — and the ripples can already be felt throughout the media industry (Marvel has certainly seemed to take it’s cue with Echo and Kahhori).

From an educational standpoint, this show teaches SO MANY important things — blending media literacy, problem solving, Indigenous history, science, and social studies. Check out the educational materials that accompany this show at PBSKids.org and PBSLearningMedia.

Make sure you watch the episode: “Grandpa’s Drum”.

The Snoopy Show

This reboot is well worth a watch… and re-watch. Snoopy and The Peanuts kids are FINALLY written with kids in mind instead of adult jocularity. Snoopy and Woodstalk bring heart and imagination and the whole thing just works!

I love that they don’t dumb down language for kids. Luckily, they leave out the cringey dialogue that can be found in the “classic” specials.

This show has created learning opportunities for our family - our oldest asked what a dog license is after Charlie Brown attempted to renew Snoopy’s dog license. We ended up having a whole discussion about it.

Don’t miss “Snoopy In Space”: The Search For Life — excellent addition to any astronomy or space unit for K-2!!

Hey Duggee!

The after-school “Squirrel Club” lead by Duggee is a fun place to visit. This show encourages teamwork as well as promotes activity and exercise. Come for the animation and sweetness, stay for the hilarity that is Roly.

“The Space Badge” is one of those incredibly beautiful episodes that will leave you in awe of the animators. You’re welcome.

Nature Cat

Tally Ho! This show makes you want to go outside and explore nature! The cast of Nature Cat is what makes it the amazing show it is. Saturday Night Live alums Taran Killam, Kate McKinnon, Bobby Moynihan, plus Kate Micucci catapults the written material to new heights — and their ad libs are freakin’ hysterical. It may not be “quiet” but it’s absolutely gentle.

It’s another show that packs in as much for adults as it does for kids. I look forward to watching episodes just like I used to look forward to seeing certain characters on SNL.

Such fun, such goofiness, and such nature! Be sure to check out the Nature Cat collection on PBSLearningMedia.org. So many great educational activities and lesson plans. Don’t forget the games on PBSKids.org.

Underrated Shows

Shows that never got their due.

Wallykazam!

Whoever thought to make a show that encompasses phonics, reading, super catchy songs, with an odd sprinkling of Weird “Al” here and there was either smoking something AH-mazing or had a brilliant moment of creativity.

Honestly, we have been singing the songs from Wallykazam FOR YEARS. I can’t make mashed potatoes without breaking into Gina Giant’s rendition of “Mashed Potatoes” nor did a nap time go by without singing “Naptime for Borgelorp”.

This is one of THEEEE most quotable shows - which is another reason why it works so well for our nerdy family. My youngest is a Gestalt Language Processor so many of her early gestalts were from Wallykazam.

Watch for the phonics and music, stay for BobGoblin. (Note: the animators slightly change his expressions after the first episode or two so that he’s more goofy and clueless and less “mean” or villian-y. It’s a good change and good on them for noticing and making that change.)

Peg + Cat

Okay - I know some people would put this show in the “loud” category… My argument there is that the format of Peg Plus Cat is akin to an old radio show so it’s part of it’s magic. Not to mention, they sing about math concepts! The songs on this show feel broadway-esque, are helpful in blending music to math, and ooooh are they catchy.

Peg and Cat make for great tour guides into early math - numbers, counting, shapes, addition, subtraction, symmetry, numerical order, time… Check out their collection at PBS Learning Media.

My only note: 2 or so episodes feature tickling as a major part of the plot and, wow, is that disappointing — but I won’t unpack that right now.

Interrupting Chicken

This is a new show based on David Ezra’s best-selling, award winning books of the same name. I was surprised that I hadn’t heard more about it on Apple TV… which I have and use often. I only found Interrupting Chicken because I was on a Sterling K. Brown binge and this came up under his credits. And I’m so glad I did!

Interrupting Chicken is an adorable show that would work perfectly as part of an ELA curriculum. It breaks down storytelling in a smart and fun way - so it’s as much about the mechanics of stories as it is imaginative and fun.

Spirit Rangers

Bravery, community, and nature are all common themes within Spirit Rangers. The showrunner, writers, and cast are Indigenous making it another notable show to challenge the media industry into telling authentic, inclusive stories.

Indigenous cultures are explored through language, artwork, customs and more. It’s an informative and well thought out show that would be a great part of any early learning curriculum. Once you read Vincent Schilling’s review at Native ViewPoint you’ll understand why this show is so important.

Honorable Mentions

Through The Woods (rated 3+, PBSKids, Apple TV+)

Talk about adorable. This episodes may only be 3-minutes but they make you feel like you’ve been hugged.

Carl The Collector (rated 4+, PBSKids)

Representation matters - my oldest sees so much of themself in Carl. Love the work PBSKids has done with this show.

Stillwater (rated 6+, Apple TV+)

Resilience, mindfulness… so many lessons to add to an emotional intelligence curriculum. Such a calm show.

Elinor Wonders Why (rated 3+, PBS Kids)

Nature and curiosity at it’s best. Definitely fulfills the “gentle” requirement.

Sago Mini Friends (rated TV-Y, Apple TV+)

Music, dance, and mindfulness. Pizza…. hello!

Word World (rated 3+, PBS Kids)

Great for emerging readers.

Lyla In The Loop (rated 4+, PBSKids)

I love the focus on logic and critical thinking for kids.

Shape Island (rated 3+, Apple TV+)

I’d say more like 6+ for highly sensitive kids. Charming and different.

Work It Out Wombats (rated 3+, PBS Kids)

The wombats problem-solve by breaking things down. Shout-y at times though.

Izzy’s Koala World (rated TV-Y, Netflix)

Your kid will learn all about Koalas and reasons why they might end up in a rescue center. 🐨 Cuteness!

Rosie’s Rules (rated 3+, PBS Kids)

“Breath in, breath out, wiggle about… Now I’m ready to figure this out!”

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (rated 3+, PBS Kids)

May be too visual stimulating for some. Be wary of a few ableist learning-nuggets like “Use your words!” 😡

Frog and Toad (rated 3+, Apple TV+)

Friendship. Always friendship. GREAT to accompany Arnold Lobel’s collection of Frog and Toad stories.

Gabby’s Dollhouse (rated 4+, Netflix)

This show is joy. Kid material only - no winks and nudges here.

Cyberchase (rated 5+, PBS Kids)

“Problem-solving” content done with solid math/science concepts. Plus, Christopher Lloyd stars as “THE Hacker!”

Pinecone & Pony (rated 6+, Apple TV+)

Hilarious. My kid became Pony for a week after watching.

Kiff (rated 6+, Disney)

Quirky comedy about friendship.

Wild Kratts (rated 6+, PBS Kids)

Ironically, their best work is when they appear on Molly of Denali… Massive amounts of animal facts.

Ollie & Moon (rated 6+, Netflix)

The odd couple of mini-geographic adventures.

Leo The Truck (rated All, Amazon)

Leo… builds things. Great for kids who love vehicles.

Creature Cases (rated TV-Y, Netflix)

Globe-trotting detectives help animal communities - the music is retro and my oldest is here for it!

Saving For Later

I’ve already previewed these and can’t wait to subtly introduce them at the right time.

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (rated 8+, Disney) [This is legit my favorite show and will continue to be peeved at Disney for cancelling after 2 seasons. It’s GENIUS!]

El Deafo (rated 8+, Apple TV+) [Deaf representation, PAH!]

I hope you found the above information helpful in evaluating meaning television media for your family. Thanks for taking a moment to stop by!

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a cup of Lakota Raspberry leaf tea from Lakota Made.

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The morning started off like so many mornings:

Buddy was building with Duplos. Elf was watching Super Why! on her tablet.

A COMPLETELY unassuming morning…

Right about now is when many homeschool parents feel the pressure to have their kids sit down and do something that looks more like “school”. I still have a difficult time ignoring this impulse - it’s the public school kid in me, I guess.

So, I ignored my well-meaning homeschool voices and, as if by magic, the kids made up an activity that we engaged in ALL MORNING long.

Thus began our Pusheen/Super Why! mashup spelling spectacular!

There was letter recognition, spelling, phonics, fine motor work, teamwork,… all lead by my kids.

It was true self-directed learning (SDL). They approached me with an idea, I helped pull the logistical pieces together, and they ran the show.

It all began with my youngest. She approached me wanting to play: “Let’s play Princess Presto spelling!”

Spelling and phonics it is!

So she grabbed the magnet letters — and then surprised me by pulling out our Pusheen magnet pieces and prompting ME on helping a kitty in need.

“Let’s help Stormy! Where’s her coffee? Spell ‘coffee’.”

She told me each letter one at a time and I made them appear under her magic wand. When all of the letters appeared, Elf grabbed the mug magnet and gave it to Stormy (who drank it up in one gulp and proceeded to thank Princess Presto).

Words were flying around the table. It was glorious! And then MORE unexpected things began to happen… Elf began drawing pieces we didn’t have a magnet for like a WEB. THEN, Buddy asked Elf to help him spell some words.

Um… you don’t know my kids but this was a REALLY BIG DEAL.

Buddy prefers his own space while doing any type of learning - no little sister allowed - and all of a sudden he was asking her to assist him. [He’s a strong speller so this was him engaging in play and teamwork.]

At 6, writing is not ELF’s preference (because fine motor planning is hard most days). She began manipulating the small magnetic pieces and writing or drawing on a dry erase board WITHOUT ONCE being prompted by me. When she gets tired she defaults to scribbling lines in place of words like cartoon characters do when they’re writing letters and she didn’t do that at all.

Because it was fun. ✨

Because there was no pressure.

They felt safe.

We maintained a “no demand” environment and it yielded unexpected results.

What unfolded that morning was self-directed learning at its core.

My kids chose what they wanted to learn, how they wanted to learn it, when they wanted to learn it and it was magical.

Elf is a Gestalt Language Processor so learning comes easiest when she watches a video and then immediately repeats what she sees. In this case, we started with a video that highlighted spelling and helping friends, that she then directly applied in a fun activity — smiles, flapping, it was all absolutely thrilling for her.

So much learning and skill development was happening and I hadn’t planned any part of it:

• Letter recognition

• Phonics

• Spelling

• Fine motor planning

• Teamwork

• Turn-taking

• Boundary-making

Self-directed learning does not have to look like “school” or at least what society thinks school is supposed to look like. Because of this, many people can’t see the connections being made because it might look like simply watching a video, or reading a book, playing a video game, crafting, writing a recipe, experimenting with materials, building with Legos, exploring nature but it’s so much more…

I first read about SDL in the book “A Different Way To Learn: Neurodiversity and Self-Directed Education” by Dr. Naomi Fisher with illustrations by Eliza Fricker. I was solidly an eclectic homeschooler up until this point — after reading it we’ve been leaning toward the unschooling/self-directed learning path and the JOY that exists in our learning is waaay less of a unicorn that it used to be.

Think SDL might fit with your eclectic, unschooling style? I highly recommend it.

This book not only helped me foster more SDL opportunities for my kids - but it has down right helped me be better parent.

I originally picked this book up as a resource for PDA (pathological demand avoidance or pervasive drive for autonomy, if you prefer) in need of guidance on how to produce a low-demand learning environment and I got more than I ever thought.

Yes, most of the changes that occurred from reading this book were part of my own re-calibration, but they felt easy. In 6 months I’ve only had ONE “throw-in-the-pencil-I’m-the-worst-teacher-ever” day. That used to happen every 2 weeks…

Read A Different Way To Learn. Honestly, it will change your homeschooling game. It makes you stop and smell the coffee. Reading it is like getting a hug and being told that everything is going to be okay.

Already read it? Step up your low-demand parenting and homeschooling game further with these books:

• Low-Demand Parenting by Amanda Diekman

• The Educator’s Experience of Pathological Demand Avoidance by Laura Kerby

• Declarative Language Handbook by Linda K. Murphy

And if you truly want your world upended in the best possible way I HIGHLY suggest reading:

• Raising Free People by Akilah S. Richards

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I relish being able to provide an environment where my kids have the freedom to explore their interests and passions - without judgement. This is what I reach for - and to be honest it doesn’t quite happen this way most days… YET. In time, I can see them naturally sliding into self-directed learning and end up developing so many life skills.

I feel as if my roll in their self-directed learning is like an improv scene: always say “yes and…” or in this case “that’s a great idea!”

Write that down on a post-it and put it on the wall behind your computer - to remind you that even playing a game based on a TV show can lead to a self-directed learning opportunity.

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a tea latte using Bigelow Green Tea and Refresh Mint Tazo tea.

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Don’t overthink this style — It’s exactly like it sounds.

If you're a homeschooling parent, you know how difficult it can be to plan out your child's day, week or month. I used to write things down and magically my kids would complete that pesky little set of learning to-dos…

…Bwah ha ha!!! Yeeeahh, I know, right? …Delusional. 🙃

And really — once we leaned into self-directed learning the nail was officially in the coffin of “regular planning”.

So, what’s a homeschooling family to do?

Luckily, I stumbled upon retro planning at some point early in our homeschooling journey.

We are in a state that does not require any rigorous oversight and so being able to choose our preferred curriculum, set our own schedule, and work toward our own goals means documenting in a way that works for us. In the end, it’s just for my records.

Retro planning is an easy way to record what your kids are learning and it works with both analog and digital methods of documenting. Anyone can do this style of planning.

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Analog Retro Planning

Let me take you through the retro-planning approach - first the analog method: using a good ol’ paper calendar or notebook.

Supplies recommended:

• sticky notes (any size or type will do - I’m partial to the 4x6 kind)

• your favorite writing utensil

Start out by making a list of all topics/lessons/activities you'd like to cover. You know your family best - if everyone is generally well regulated, feel free to write down more items or if things are stressful or if your kiddo has been dysregulated lately write down less items.

When I have time to plan (sometimes days before, the night before, or, let's be honest - the morning of usually...) I start by writing what my kids typically get done in a day (never expecting that any or all of it gets done.)

So, things might look like this:

Okay - I never realized until this moment looking at this photo that my kid’s nicknames put together equals Buddy the Elf. They both love syrup. Makes so much sense… 🍁

Right now, we are playing things pretty loose — self-directed learning is a great fit for my kiddo with PDA traits who’s in a bit of burnout so this is as complex as the list gets right now. Sometimes I'll add page numbers, lesson titles, or anything else that's important... I also include field trips and so on.

Next, I invite my kids to choose what they'd like to work on, or learn about. My oldest tends to follow routine. My youngest is chaotic neutral so currently she’s exploring a wide range of interests... usually nothing that's on the list 🤪

Only once my kiddo completes a lesson do I write it down in my big calendar so I have a record of what we did that day and cross it off my sticky note. DONE!

This is the essence of retro-planning. Malleable first draft; clean final document.

Sometimes the kids complete the whole list.

Sometimes they do 2 things from the list and then play together all day (which is learning in and of itself which I also document)

Sometimes the list gets moved over to the next day.

Sometimes I add to the list at random points during the day because the kids create great ideas.

Sometimes I crumple up the list in frustration and let the cats play with its paper carcass 📃 🐈‍⬛

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Digital Retro Planning

This same technique can be used with any digital planner or calendar making it a truly versatile method of documenting.

Simply make a list of possible lessons, activities, or learning experiences on your favorite digital note or text program and once their complete copy and paste the entry into your final digital document.

Organizing & planning is a special interest - to my detriment. I change digital planners more frequently then I change out my toothbrush if that tells you anything. Google docs, Click Up, Asana, Slack, Scrivner, regular paper planner… I’m currently in a honeymoon period with Notion so I may post about that on a later date.

I'll be honest, every month of homeschooling is different for us. I work with a goal of my kids being self-directed learners but at 6 and 8 my kiddos are still in need of guidance.

Some months are filled with worksheets or online opportunities, others with videos, still others with Duplo re-enactments of Bluey episodes. Regardless of method, I still follow my kids interests and try to provide learning opportunities but I always end up retro planning it all!

I also do this with larger goals: anything that you spend significant time on can be retrofitted. If your kiddo read a lot during the month you can write down “reading fluency” as part of their goals. Maybe they spent time writing funny sentences or jokes then you can go back and write “shows personality through writing”. I will talk about this more in my next post about “AI in your homeschool” - which will get you thinking so you can elevate your ability to document and write goals - like a LOT!

In the words of Miss O: “What are you waiting for?! GO” grab some sticky notes and start retro-planning!

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Today’s post was written while enjoying a cup of Raspberry Leaf Herbal Tea from Lakota Made. Not an affiliate - just a fan!

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Buy a board game? They ignore the board and play with the pieces.

Buy a building set? They don’t really care what the finished set is - they want to make their own thing.

We got a fast food kids meal toy that instead of playing it as recommended they use the cards and pieces to play something completely different.

With parts, you can build a rainbow using all kinds of treasures or trash!

With parts, you can create stories and art.

With parts, you can experiment and wonder.

So, when we did a life cycle lesson that focused on plant reproduction we found ourselves fingers deep inside science fruit and vegetable parts!

Seeds! Skins! Stems! It was glorious. I actually didn’t expect this level of excitement.

My youngest is a sensory eater and if it isn’t crunchy or covered in chocolate it’s going to be a HARD no. She can be curious about food and will help me bake and cook but when a food is near her on a learning plate it’s usually met with a 2-finger pick-up, far away sniff, lizard lick and then placed on the far side of the plate. Wiping her hand on her shirt is always the final action that disconnects her from the overwhelming experience that is food.

That’s cool with me — we’re all about body autonomy in this house - which is why I was pleasantly surprised when she was having as good a time as she was. There was no pressure to participate or eat anything and the armor of being “a scientist” helped quell any trepidation.

I gave the kids cutting boards and safety knives to open up their items. Then, they used simple toothpicks to remove any seeds they found.

Wow! They were happy to poke, squeeze, feel, cut, bend and snap! (“Works every tiiiiime!”)

When I tell you it was a solid 60-minutes of excited observation and discussion it would not be a lie. I scoured the refrigerator for more produce to sacrifice in the name of science…

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And just when I thought the kids were getting tired of this activity, my youngest brought out her tablet and played a Mega Wow video on PBS Kids Videos called “Can Vegetables Make Music?”

• Green beans were tap, tap, tapping on potatoes.

• Lettuce leaves were flapping and wapping.

• Bell pepper seeds tumbled with a tinkle.

• Celery stickers were rubbing with a squeaky-squeak!

ANOTHER 30 minutes of dancing and playing produce instruments went by.

So often people forget that linear is not only boring but often hard to maintain for us neurodivergents. You gotta follow some tangents so your kids can monkey bar their way through life, metaphorically speaking.

When you dissect and lay bare the parts of a whole you’re allowing those parts to be built backup in an unexpected and often innovative way.

Our occupational therapist often compliments me on how creative my kids are because they NE-VER play with toys in the conventional way.

That’s why we love dissecting things into parts around here.

Am I, the family keeper of all things “where is this part I played with 3 months ago that was seen every time someone vacuumed but is nowhere to be seen now” simultaneously annoyed by parts?

Yes. Yes, I am.

We have multiple large doom boxes of random toy parts that can never be re-sold at a garage sale, but I digress.

Parts bring my kids joy.

Parts spark questions.

Parts get put together with other parts to create something magical.

So, when your kids do something unexpected with parts of a whole, ignore the voice that wants to correct them. Because in the end, you’re not helping them - you’re letting them know their creativity is not as valid as their compliance.

Today’s post was written while enjoying a cup of Ginger Moon tea from Raven and Hummingbird Tea Co. Not an affiliate, just a fan!

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