This morning, after my workout, I had a revelation: the weight of homeschooling a child with special needs isn’t just academic; it’s emotional, financial, and spiritual. And believe me… it’s hard!
Balancing bills, therapy copays, groceries, and gas while trying to teach…pushes you to the limit. The guilt of not doing enough sneaks in on the days when the plan falls apart, when exhaustion wins, or when your heart breaks for the child your world revolves around.
And single moms? I see you. If you’re standing solo, holding the world together, this isn’t impossible but it’s a mountain.
For us, a team of two (me and my husband both retired Air Force), it’s still a challenge. Some days I’ve wanted to walk away; not because I didn’t love teaching my son, but because I didn’t want to fail him.
Why You Must Keep Going. Even on the Hard Days
1. You’re the expert in your child.
You know what soothes them, what sparks their curiosity, and what ignites their soul. That insight? It’s your secret weapon when school systems stumble.
2. Every day is progress even the messy ones.
Not every lesson must be picture-perfect. A moment of connection, a successful handshake, a spontaneous science spark? That’s growth.
3. You build safety and trust, the foundation of real learning.
In those days when therapy, copays, and paperwork threaten to drown you, the calm in your arms is their anchor. And that safety is far more powerful than a school bell.
How to Transition: Thoughtful Steps Toward Homeschooling
If homeschooling has been pressing on your heart, here are three empowering ways to begin your journey with grace, not pressure:
1. Learn Your State’s Homeschool Laws
Every state has its own rules for homeschooling; some are super relaxed, others need formal paperwork. Start with HSLDA’s State Law Map to understand your rights and responsibilities. Knowledge brings confidence.
2. Find Your People
You don’t have to do this alone. Search for local or online support groups made just for homeschooling families especially those raising neurodivergent or autistic kids. Try Facebook groups, library meetups, or ask your therapy clinic if they know of any supportive communities.
3. Try Resources Until You Find What Fits
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to teaching your child. It’s okay to explore, pivot, and even pause until you find what works for your family. Some options to start with:
Khan Academy – free, self-paced lessons from early math to high school Outschool – live classes in everything from reading to Minecraft coding Ambleside Online – a flexible, literature-rich approach based on Charlotte Mason methods Teachers Pay Teachers – printable resources created by educators and therapists
Remember: you’re allowed to try, adjust, and start over. That’s not failing…that’s tailoring the learning to your child.
A Reminder & A Prayer
I saw an Instagram video this week that shook me, in both heartbreak and hope. A mom in tears because her son’s IEP was being ignored. He was left out, overlooked, and made to feel invisible. She had decided: enough is enough. She was walking him out, into homeschooling, faith, and fierce mama love.
When I felt like giving up? That video showed me (like many other videos): I’m not alone. And God is reminding me to keep going.
Final Truth
You might feel tired. You might feel worn. But the love in your eyes…the pride in their smile…the boldness of your heart…these are the markers of hope.
Dear mama, you’re more capable than you believe!
You’re not failing, you’re fighting!
And that fight…is one worth taking.
📍Need encouragement and real resources? Follow our journey at @raisingmywiredking
Drop a comment if you’re on this path or thinking about starting. You’re not alone.
🔗 Let’s walk it together one step at a time. We’re two years in.
Raising My Wired King 