Special Education at Home: Empowering Parents, Supporting Students
Apr 11, 2025 | by Priscilla Goma, Special Education Director
At Colearn Academy, we believe every child deserves a learning experience that honors their unique strengths, needs, and pace. That includes students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and those with learning differences who may not yet qualify for special education. Whether you’re a parent of a child with an IEP, 504, or simply looking for ways to better support your child’s learning at home, we’re here to partner with you.
Yes—Virtual Schools Can Support IEPs Well
There is a common myth that special education cannot be effectively delivered in a virtual setting. At Colearn Academy, we’ve seen the opposite: with intentional design, strong communication, and a commitment to individualized learning, virtual schools can be incredibly supportive for students with IEPs.
Here’s what a strong virtual special education program should include:
A dedicated SPED team that includes certified special education teachers and specialists.
IEP meetings that are collaborative and accessible, with input from both educators and parents, focused on what’s working (and what’s not).
Tailored accommodations and modifications that are built into the student’s virtual curriculum and tools.
Related services like speech or occupational therapy delivered virtually in engaging formats.
Regular progress monitoring so goals remain meaningful and growth is celebrated.
At Colearn, we also allow for flexibility. If something doesn’t work, we adjust. That’s the benefit of personalized learning.
Parents as Partners in the Learning Process
In a virtual or hybrid setting, parents play a central role—and that’s not a burden, but a gift. You know your child best. You see how they learn, what motivates them, and when they hit a wall. At Colearn, we honor that by building strong communication between home and school.
We offer:
Coaching and regular check-ins to support parents navigating learning challenges at home
A dedicated team to guide you through the IEP process or explore evaluation options if needed
Resources for structured literacy, executive functioning, and at-home accommodations
Workshops and family learning sessions focused on supporting students with learning differences
Connections to specialists including dyslexia experts, interventionists, and special education staff
Customized learning plans built in partnership with parents to reflect each student’s unique needs and strengths
You don’t have to do this alone—we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Tips for Supporting Your Child with Learning Differences at Home
Whether you’re homeschooling full-time or partnering with a virtual school like Colearn, here are some ways to support your learner:
Create routines—but stay flexible. Structure helps students with learning differences, but it’s okay to pivot when needed. If writing at 9 AM doesn’t work, try it after a movement break or later in the day.
Use visual supports. Schedules, checklists, and visual reminders help with focus and independence.
Celebrate small wins. Progress can be slow and nonlinear. Notice when your child finishes a task on their own or remembers to use a strategy—these are huge victories.
Break tasks into chunks. A worksheet might feel overwhelming, but three smaller steps with breaks in between can make it manageable.
Lean into strengths. If your child is a strong verbal learner, try recording instructions. If they’re visual, draw it out. Tap into what lights them up.
Build in movement and brain breaks Even a quick stretch, walk, or dance party between tasks can reset focus and reduce frustration. Movement supports regulation and can help with transitions.
Practice patience—with your child and yourself. Supporting a learner with differences is a journey, not a sprint. Some days will feel smoother than others, and that’s okay. Extend grace, celebrate effort, and remember that your presence and persistence matter more than perfection.
Reduce distractions Create a cozy, consistent learning space with minimal clutter. Noise-canceling headphones, timers, or a “focus corner” can also help with attention and calm.
Encourage self-advocacy Even young students can learn to say things like “I need a break” or “Can you say that again?” These small phrases build confidence and independence.
Ask for help. Whether through Colearn or other resources, you don’t have to do this alone.
Every Child Deserves to Thrive
At Colearn Academy, we’re proud to serve students with diverse learning needs, and to partner with parents who are walking this journey with so much love, commitment, and insight. Whether your child has an IEP, is being evaluated, or simply needs a more personalized learning experience, we’re here to support you.