When we talk about how every child has different educational needs, we must also remember that these extend outside the classroom.

In our family, that means time together, which might have been very limited since my husband often works afternoons, nights and weekends. Separation was not the family life or dynamic that we wanted, so I began homeschooling when my oldest of three kids entered kindergarten, and we have really enjoyed our journey and what it’s producing.

For one, flexible school hours mean we might do schoolwork on Saturday so we can be together on Monday if that’s my husband’s day off.

Another major benefit that has come out of homeschooling is being able to adjust our curriculum and teaching style/techniques for each of my kids and their learning needs to help them not only succeed but also excel. For instance, my daughter struggled to read. But we adjusted the lessons and catered to her interests, and now she’s an avid reader above grade level. My kindergarten son is fascinated by geology and archaeology, so that’s the science he learns–and he loves to learn!

Sacrificing my income to be their teacher and having the expense of curriculum and supplies isn’t easy, but we manage.

However, I look forward to the expansion of the new educational freedom account program under LEARNS and, when my children qualify, exploring access to resources that will help meet all their needs, including those of our family’s unique dynamic.

– Alisha Neddo, Batesville