Rabbit Trails and Real Life: One Mom’s Journey

Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Are you homeschooling a neurodivergent child, or just feeling like the “typical” homeschool advice doesn’t fit your real life? This episode is for all the mamas who secretly (or not-so-secretly) wish for a blueprint, but end up building a rollercoaster every single day.

Today, I’m joined by Amie, a veteran mom of one, homeschooling her neurodivergent son, and living proof that “just one kid” does NOT mean it’s always a walk in the park! (Try keeping up with a high-speed Wikipedia page who only wants to talk about trains and Japanese sailing. It’s an Olympic sport.)

Amie opens up about her journey: from the failed attempt at “Best School in the System” to finding a unique family rhythm at home, letting go of expectations, and embracing a blend of Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and good old, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants adaptability. We dive into what school looks like for a wildly curious, deeply-focused teen and how Wonder Studies (yes, still with her high schooler!) has become a lifeline for jumpstarting curiosity and keeping herself sane.

Wonder how to juggle rabbit trails, box-checking, and your own perfectionist guilt? Amie and I get real about dropping the Pinterest boards and finding peace in the “messy middle.” If your homeschool feels all over the place. Spoiler: you’re in good company.

What you’ll learn:

• Why letting go of “school should look like school” is the first step to real joy
• Exactly how Amie balances deep-dive interests with actually “doing the school things”
• Why unit studies + living books + rabbit holes are magic for neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alike
• Tips for Morning Time with a single, high-intensity learner (and why baskets save everyone’s sanity!)
• How Wonder Studies gives teens independence and mamas instant relief
• Letting go of perfectionism, surviving “no core subjects this week,” and still raising an amazing kid
• Why curiosity and joy matter just as much, if not more, than checking the boxes

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Wonder Studies Annual Access
• Teens on Track resources:
• Morning Time Plans

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt44