Disclaimer: As a future Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently pursuing my master’s degree, I am passionate about sharing insights and information related to parenting, autism and homeschooling based on my personal experiences and research. However, the content shared on this blog is not intended to substitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Parenting is a deeply personal journey, and while I strive to provide valuable insights, every family and situation is unique. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
Homeschooling a child with autism comes with its unique set of challenges and joys. Designing a conducive learning environment tailored to their needs is crucial for their success and well-being. Today, I wanted to chat about practical tips and strategies to create a positive autism homeschool space where your child can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Setting up a nurturing learning environment at home is essential for children with autism, as it provides structure, consistency, and personalized support. This is even more important when you’re also homeschooling. By understanding your child’s sensory preferences, learning styles, and interests, you can design a space that promotes engagement, independence, and growth.
10 Tips for Your Autism Homeschool Space
Create Zones for Different Activities
Divide the homeschool room into zones for different activities, such as reading, writing, art, and sensory play, to facilitate transitions and maintain focus. This was honestly the biggest game changer in our homeschool room. We have a reading area, computer area, art area and LEGO area. It helps so much with transitions to have specific spaces for each.
Designate a Quiet Corner
Create a cozy, quiet corner in your homeschool room (or elsewhere in your home) where your child can go when feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. Bug has a reading nook in a closet where she can go when she needs a break. There have been seasons when we spent A LOT of time there.
Consider Lighting
Choose soft, natural lighting or adjustable lighting options to minimize glare and create a calm, comfortable atmosphere. Bug struggles with certain lighting, like fluorescent lights, so I am aware of lighting in our home. A lot of the time, we are just schooling with sunlight from the windows, no overhead lights at all.
Provide Sensory-Friendly Furniture
Select furniture that is comfortable, supportive, and sensory-friendly, such as bean bags, rocking chairs, or weighted blankets. We have a big fluffy couch in our school room, where the majority of our learning happens, to be honest. Bug also has a yoga ball, wiggle chair, bean bag… a lot of flexible seating in our school!
Organize Materials Thoughtfully
Keep homeschool materials and supplies neatly organized and easily accessible to minimize distractions and facilitate learning. We are big clear storage people in our house. ADHD runs rampant and if I can’t see it, I won’t use it. This means that it can add a lot of visual clutter if I am not careful, though. So be mindful of what you are bringing into your homeschool.
Incorporate Visual Supports
Use visual supports such as schedules, calendars, and charts to provide structure and visual cues for your child’s daily routine and activities. We love visual schedules. I have a magnetic whiteboard with magnet pictures that I can use to help Bug know what our rhythm will be for the day.
Create a Dedicated Work Area
Designate a specific area in your homeschool room for focused learning activities, equipped with a desk or table and ergonomic seating. This is especially important if this is the way your kiddo likes to learn. We rarely use the desk in our school room, but some kids really do need that space designation. If it works for your family, do it!
Personalize the Space
Incorporate elements that reflect your child’s interests, such as posters, artwork, or themed decorations related to their favorite topics or hobbies. Our school room is decorated with artwork and completed LEGO sets, two of Bug’s favorite things. Adding your child’s personality to your space helps them feel supported and invested in the space.
Minimize Clutter
Keep the homeschool space clutter-free and organized to reduce sensory overload and promote a sense of calm and order. This is something I struggle with, honestly. I go through our homeschool room every 4 months and deep declutter, but there is always something to get rid of!
Include Sensory Break Stations
Set up sensory break stations with calming tools such as fidget toys, sensory bins, or noise-canceling headphones for moments when your child needs a break. I love the idea of a station if you have the space, but we honestly just have a bin of sensory items. Works for us!
Creating a positive learning environment for homeschooling your child with autism is a process that requires patience and creativity. With a little thought and creative thinking, though, you can design a homeschool space that meets your child’s unique needs and fosters their growth and development.