As I mentioned in my last post, I have a new writing project with a colleague and long time friend. It has evolved from a podcast to an E-Book with a companion podcast. Think workbook-style reading for parents as they listen to the podcast with personal stories to connect. Writing again has definitely been good for my brain, and working on a project with a friend has been super rewarding.

Our working book and podcast title is Educating the Uniquely Wired Child, and as I learn to navigate the world of social media to let people know what we are doing (a steep learning curve for someone over the age of 50), I have been thinking a lot about what it means to be uniquely wired. And the balance we are trying to find between celebrating uniqueness, while also honoring the inherent challenges for children and parents. After all, we all are unique in certain ways. And those who think differently shouldn’t be punished for their way of thinking. But I feel like a traditional school setting needs them to think differently in order for them to fit inside their predetermined box called “how to learn.”

So what is the solution? Opt out of the traditional school setting? That is not an option for most. And if you are committed to staying in the traditional school setting, how do you advocate to make that work for your uniquely wired child? From my experiences, the school staff and administration determine how effective that advocacy can be (i.e., a good teacher and administration go a long way in making a school environment successful for a uniquely wired child). I am excited to learn more about the homeschool options from my co-author and co-host, as this has been her wheelhouse for over three decades.

Figuring out school is huge for a uniquely wired child. If they do not have a positive experience, it sets them up to fail. I will always remember seeing one of my kiddos at their elementary school in 3rd grade. Their shoulders slumped in defeat. I knew then we needed to make a change. The following year their photo was featured on the school website with them writing in their journal on the rocks of the campus instead of at a desk.

My colleague and I are deeply committed to changing the mindset for those who are uniquely wired. Different doesn’t have to be less than or bad.

• lifeinmiddleage