Redefining Education: OT Expert Lindsey Larsen on Homeschooling Children with Disabilities

Navigating the journey of parenting a child with disabilities can be an unexpected twist in our life plans, often requiring us to adapt and learn in ways we never envisioned. But, it can also bring extraordinary moments of connection, serendipitous discoveries, and a deep sense of purpose.

From “Anything but Pediatrics” to Dedicated Advocate

Lindsey Larsen’s journey into the world of pediatric occupational therapy (OT) began with a simple mantra: she would work in any medical field but pediatrics. That is, until the birth of her child, who experienced a significant stroke soon after birth. This life-altering event swiftly shifted Lindsey’s focus from a wide array of OT specialties to pediatrics, specifically engaging with children who have disabilities.

Her foray into homeschooling began similarly, trying various preschool experiences until she recognized that homeschooling was the most beneficial environment for her daughter. Lindsey’s story highlights a profound truth: the paths we may initially shy away from can become the very roads we are called to walk, leading to newfound passions and opportunities for growth.

Creating Spaces for Inclusion and Understanding

One of Lindsey’s primary missions has been to foster understanding and inclusion of children with disabilities in our communities. Through her children’s book, “Meeting Exceptional Friends,” she aims to normalize conversations about disabilities and teach children, as well as their caregivers, that it’s okay to ask questions.

Imagine a world where curiosity is encouraged, where children’s inquiries about disabilities are met with open dialogue rather than hushed tones and redirection. This is the world Lindsey strives to create, one where differences are acknowledged, celebrated, and learned from—a world where every child sees reflections of their own experiences and glimpses the lives of others.

Building an Inclusive Library

Building a home library that reflects diverse experiences, especially those with disabilities, can profoundly impact our children’s understanding of the world. For families with children navigating disabilities, seeing their experiences and challenges reflected in the stories they read can be both validating and empowering.

Lindsey’s extensive work on compiling book lists that include self-published works from authors with disabilities or those with direct experience underscores the importance of representation. Her curated list is available on her website, offering a treasure trove of options for families seeking inclusive literature.

Cultivating Empathy through Storytelling

Lindsey is the incoming director of the Disability Book Week organization, aiming to broaden the availability and visibility of disability-inclusive books from children’s reads to young adult and adult fiction/non-fiction. This initiative is a call to libraries, schools, and communities to support and showcase literature that resonates with diverse life experiences.

Thinking Big: Encouraging Inclusion and Curiosity

For parents of children with disabilities, Lindsey’s journey of adapting her family’s educational path serves as an encouragement. It’s a reminder that our journeys might not look like we originally imagined, but they are filled with unexpected beauty and lessons.

Next time you visit your local library and take time to recommend self-published books that celebrate disabilities. Advocate for your child’s school to include such books in their curriculum. And most importantly, foster an environment at home where questions about disabilities are welcomed and met with thoughtful conversations.

By bringing these stories into our homes, we give our children the tools to build a more inclusive and empathetic future. Let’s nurture curiosity, encourage dialogue, and celebrate the beautiful diversity of human experiences.

OT is IN #36 Disability Inclusion and Homeschooling: Lindsey Larsen Shares Her Unique Perspective and Resources

We’re joined by Lindsey Larsen, an inspiring OT professional and homeschooling mom who found herself unexpectedly all-in on homeschooling following her daughter’s severe stroke. Lindsey opens up about her unexpected shift into pediatrics and the creation of her impactful children’s book, “Meeting Exceptional Friends.”

During our conversation, Lindsey discusses her mission to educate both children and their caregivers about disabilities through engaging storytelling. She also shares her exciting role as the incoming director of Disability Book Week, an initiative aimed at promoting disability-inclusive literature.

In this episode you’ll hear about:

• Lindsey’s Journey to Pediatric Occupational Therapy (Peds)
• Birth of her child and the subsequent stroke
• Transition to Pediatrics out of necessity
• Initial reluctance and societal perceptions of homeschooling
• Daughter’s preschool experience
• Homeschooling her second daughter
• Transition of her second daughter to public school
• Tailoring education to fit family needs
• Flexibility and adaptation in educational approaches
• Observations in the community regarding disabilities
• Response to the need for inclusive education
• Creation of her book “Meeting Exceptional Friends“
• Aimed at educating both children and parents about disabilities
• The concept of the book: playground setting and inclusion
• The repetitive phrase, “That’s a great question”
• Encouraging open discussion about disabilities
• Amber Johnston’s concept: Windows and Mirrors
• Recommendations for other books and authors
• Disability Book Week and its mission
• Expansion of booklists to include more disability representations
• Limited physical book collections due to military life
• Heavy reliance on library resources
• Emphasis on supporting self-published authors
• The positive influence of inclusive books on her children
• Daughter’s essay on fire safety considering disabilities
• Encouragement to use Disability Book Week as a resource
• Importance of advocating for more inclusive books in libraries

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

• Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?
• Handwriting Focus Group from Homeschool OT
• Vision Therapy Screening Assessment from Homeschool OT
• Meeting Exceptional Friends by Lindsey Larsen
• Disability Book Week Website
• Books to Uplift Perspectives and Experiences of Disability from NEA
• Books as Mirrors & Windows With Simply Charlotte Mason
• Episode 20: Tailored Kid’s Activities from Crafts to Sleep: Insights from Connie O’Neill
  

Connect with our Guest, Lindsey Larsen

Lindsey Larsen earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Creighton University. She currently works as a clinical abstractor for a genetic company. She is also the mother to two amazing daughters, a homeschool educator, parenting coach, military spouse, children’s book author, and the incoming director of Disability Book Week.

Lindsey’s older daughter, Madelyn, survived a massive stroke in infancy which resulted in a variety of disabilities. Lindsey began homeschooling her children, so both of her children could succeed in their own unique way.

In 2022, Lindsey decided to write a children’s picture book based on her personal experiences, to educate all children about visible and invisible disabilities. Lindsey’s book, Meeting Exceptional Friends recently won the 2023 Nautilus Book Awards for best picture book/fiction ages 2-6 and the 2023 Readers’ Favorite Bronze Award for best Educational Picture Book. Lindsey is leaping into a new role as the director of Disability Book Week, a volunteer organization that promotes and celebrates disability-inclusive books as well as authors with disabilities.