Homeschooling and PANS/PANDAS: Resources for Families
Traditional school environments can be challenging for many families navigating PANS/PANDAS. Symptoms such as anxiety, OCD, cognitive difficulties, and fatigue may make a structured classroom setting overwhelming. School avoidance is a common symptom of PANS/PANDAS. While public schools offer support, some families decide homeschooling is the best option for their children while they heal and beyond.
Homeschooling provides the flexibility and accommodations necessary to support both health and education. Many homeschooling resources are available for all types of budgets and learners. Each child learns differently, just as each parent may teach differently. Understanding your child’s specific learning style may help you select a curriculum and ease your teaching at home.
Additionally, free homeschool curricula can provide structured learning without financial strain, making it a viable option for many families. Please familiarize yourself with your state-specific homeschool laws, as each state is very different. Whether considering homeschooling for the first time or looking for additional resources, this guide can help you get started.
ASPIRE ChitChat Group on Homeschooling
Do you have questions about Homeschooling as it relates to PANS/PANDAS? Join us for a supportive parent-to-parent chat! Whether you need answers or want to share, we’re here for you.
- Register today for the next Homeschooling ChitChat
Understanding Homeschooling Requirements
Before beginning your homeschooling journey, it’s essential to understand your state’s legal requirements. Homeschooling laws vary widely across the U.S., including notification requirements, record-keeping, and assessments. Check your state’s specific laws here:
Choosing the Right Curriculum
Many children with PANS/PANDAS have unique learning needs. Sensory sensitivities, attention difficulties, and executive functioning challenges can make traditional curricula difficult. Finding the right fit is key to a successful homeschooling experience. These resources provide reviews and insights into different homeschooling programs:
Identifying Your Homeschooling Style
There are many different approaches to homeschooling, from structured traditional methods to more flexible, child-led learning styles. Understanding what works best for your child’s strengths and challenges can help create an effective learning environment. Take these quizzes to explore different educational approaches:
Free Homeschooling Programs
For families looking for cost-effective options, free homeschool curricula can provide structured learning without financial strain. These resources offer free K-12 curricula across multiple subjects:
Homeschooling with PANS/PANDAS: Tips for Success
- Prioritize Health First: Learning can happen at any pace—your child’s healing comes first.
- Use a Flexible Schedule: Symptoms can fluctuate, so having adaptable plans can reduce stress.
- Incorporate Interest-Based Learning: Letting children explore subjects they enjoy can help maintain engagement despite cognitive challenges.
- Utilize Accommodations: Audiobooks, hands-on activities, and alternative assessments can help tailor education to your child’s needs.
- Find Support: Connecting with other homeschooling families—especially those who understand PANS/PANDAS—can provide invaluable encouragement and shared resources.
You Are Not Alone
Homeschooling can be a powerful tool for supporting children with PANS/PANDAS, but finding a system that works best for your family is important. Whether you’re full-time homeschooling or using a hybrid approach, there are resources available to help you navigate this journey.
If you have additional resources or insights to share, feel free to contact us—we are here to support you!
Resources compiled by: Samantha Dill
Gabriella True
