Can You Homeschool a Neurodivergent Child in Rhode Island? Yes, and Here's Where to Start

From IEPs and therapies to learning approaches and community support, here’s what Rhode Island families should know about homeschooling neurodivergent children

Photo by Peter Burdon on Unsplash

What Rhode Island Families Should Know Before They Begin

Many Rhode Island families choose homeschooling for neurodivergent children because it allows them to create a learning experience that fits their child’s needs, strengths, interests, and pace. If you are considering homeschooling, these steps can help you understand where to begin.

Step 1: Understand Your Child’s IEP and School Options

If your child currently has an IEP through their school district, this is one of the first questions many families have when considering homeschooling.

Families may have choices regarding:

• Continuing certain services

  
  

• Declining services

  
  

• Exploring alternative supports

  
  

Because individual situations vary, families should speak directly with their school district and understand their rights before making decisions. Find your district’s contact information through the Rhode Island Department of Education directory.

Step 2: Explore Available Therapies and Supports

Homeschooling does not mean families lose access to all support services. Depending on eligibility, families may be able to access supports through private insurance, Medicaid, or community programs, including:

• Occupational Therapy (OT)

  
  

• Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)

  
  

• Physical Therapy (PT)

  
  

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

  
  

• Home-Based Therapeutic Services (HBTS)

  
  

• PASS programs

  
  

• Respite services

  
  

Additional Rhode Island resources families may want to explore include:

• Katie Beckett Program — Helps eligible children with disabilities access Medicaid coverage, regardless of parental income. Need help with the application? Use this step-by-step PowerPoint guide to walk through the process.

  
  

• URI Group Respite Program — Provides free respite care for children with special needs through a partnership with URI nursing students

  
  

Programs have specific eligibility requirements and limitations, so families should check current information and apply if they believe they may qualify.

Step 3: Take Time to Deschool

Leaving a traditional school environment can be a big transition for both children and parents. Some families choose to take time to adjust before jumping into curriculum and schedules. Deschooling is the process of taking time to transition away from the routines, expectations, and pressures of a traditional school environment before jumping into homeschooling.

Deschooling can give children and families time to:

• Reduce stress

  
  

• Rebuild confidence

  
  

• Discover interests

  
  

• Adjust to a new routine

  
  

• Learn what works best outside of a traditional classroom

  
  

There is no rush to recreate school at home. In fact, many families find that slowing down first helps them better understand their child’s needs, interests, and learning style before choosing curriculum or creating a schedule.

Step 4: Discover How Your Child Learns Best

Before choosing curriculum, spend time observing your child.

Ask:

• Do they learn best by doing, building, or creating?

  
  

• Do they prefer visual instruction?

  
  

• Do they need movement while learning?

  
  

• Do they need extra processing time?

  
  

• Do they enjoy technology-based learning?

  
  

• Do they thrive with routine or flexibility?

  
  

• Could their special interests become learning opportunities?

  
  

There is no single homeschool style that works for every child. Many families combine different approaches, including:

• Hands-on learning

  
  

• Interest-led learning

  
  

• Project-based learning

  
  

• Self-directed learning

  
  

• Online learning

  
  

• Structured curriculum

  
  

Not sure which approach may work best for your child? Explore different homeschooling styles and approaches to learn more about the options available.

Step 5: Make Room for Movement and Real-World Learning

For many neurodivergent learners, learning does not happen best sitting at a desk all day. Movement, outdoor exploration, and hands-on experiences can all be part of homeschooling.

Rhode Island offers opportunities through:

• Nature programs

  
  

• Museums

  
  

• Libraries

  
  

• Community classes

  
  

• Volunteer opportunities

  
  

• Recreational programs

  
  

• Outdoor activities

  
  

One notable resource to explore is Impossible Dream Playground — an all-inclusive playground in Warwick designed to provide accessible play opportunities for children of all abilities.

Step 6: Find Your Community

You do not have to navigate homeschooling alone.

One place many Rhode Island families start is the Rhode Island (RI) Special Needs Homeschooling Facebook group, where families connect, ask questions, and share resources. Consider creating an introduction post when you join to begin building connections with other families.

Final Thoughts

Homeschooling a neurodivergent child in Rhode Island is possible — and the state has more resources than many families realize. There are countless programs, supports, and opportunities available, far more than could fit into one guide. So get out, explore, and start discovering what works best for your child — with your child.

About the Author 

M.J. Mercure is the founder and editor of Happy Homeschool RI, a publication connecting Rhode Island homeschooling families with local events, educational opportunities, and hands-on learning adventures. Subscribe to Happy Homeschool RI for weekly field trip ideas, local events, and homeschool resources delivered straight to your inbox.

Have an event or opportunity to share? Email happyhomeschoolmedia@gmail.com