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Taylor's mom was no quitter, and she knew that homeschooling was the best option for her daughter. So she started searching. Researching learning styles, abilities, quirks, and challengesshe never typed disability, because she didn't believe in them. She talked to teachers she knew, other homeschooling parents with educationally challenged children, and support groups. Before long, Taylor's mom discovered the "problem". She wasn't listening. She learned that listening to her child was her child's best hope.

Over the next several months, Taylor's mom learned a lot about her daughter and her learning abilities. She learned that Taylor's sensory system was very sensitive, and when it became overwhelmed her mind would shut down. She discovered Taylor's triggers, and ways to avoid them, or ways to subdue the tantrums. When Taylor became overwhelmed, she still acted out. However, her mother knew that Taylor needed a break and her room was quiet and cozy. It was the perfect place for mental and sensory cleansing.

After a year of taking a break from "school", and only focusing on personal development, Taylor began to understand herself. She knew when she needed a break, without Mom's promptings. She knew, ahead of time, when situations would be too much; and she asked for alternatives. She also learned that she was no "better" or "worse" than any other kid her age. She stopped beating herself up for not getting the new concepts, and instead asked her mom for a different approach.

Together, Taylor and her mom developed an ILJ (Individual Learning Journey). This child, who could not read at age 7, was developing pre-school lesson plans at age 8. The little girl, who couldn't sit still for a lesson, was teaching her little sister the ABCs. Taylor was allowed a little freedom to learn about herself, and now she is at or above grade level with her peers. She has a solid foundation to build on throughout her life.

What is different about these two stories? They start much the same, but the outcomes are very different. For Tommy, having a learning disability meant he was different, dumb, and disabled in some way. He was labeled and shoved through the system. For Taylor, having learning abilities meant she was a unique individual who had talents and abilities, and she developed them at her own pace.

For homeschooling families, a learning disability doesn't have to be a battle or a disturbance. It can be a magical time for parent and child to bond, form a union, prepare a path, and trudge the journey together. Some "disabilities" are harder to understand and adapt to than this sensory challenge, but there is help out there for those who truly want what's best for their child. A great place to start is learningabledkids.com.

Learn more about this author, Stefany.
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