How Homebound Services Could Help Your Child
Life sometimes gets in the way, as I’m sure most of you are aware of. But when it comes to a child’s education, removing roadblocks is a necessity.
When my 6-year-old brother Simon was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on June 16, 2011, our family had to adjust to a new “normal.” With countless doses of chemotherapy and a steady stream of medications, Simon’s life, as well our families lives, changed drastically in a short period of time.
Due to Simon’s recent medical issues, he was not able to start school as scheduled. For Simon, school was one of his favorite times of day, and this year he was set to start 1st grade.
Instead of allowing Simon to fall behind in his education, Littleton Public Schools enrolled him in the Homebound program. This service provides at-home education for children who are unable to attend school for a variety of reasons.
Reasons for participating in Homebound:
- The child is an accelerated learner or is bored with the pace of their classroom lesson
- Need more time than the standard classroom allows to master concepts
- Feel they don’t fit in, or are being bullied in their school environment
- Are easily distracted in a classroom setting or have a learning challenge
- Seek extra attention that’s not easily found in many classroom
- Are homebound or undergoing medical treatments
- Travel frequently or are uprooted throughout the year due to family situations.
Homebound provides intensive one-on-one instruction, and students are given assignments to complete between visits. For elementary-aged children, tutors may work with children for a maximum of one hour per day, for five hours a week.
Another requirement for an elementary school child’s participation in Homebound is the student must not be able to attend their normal school for at least four full weeks.
While Simon is unable to attend school, the Homebound program will ensure that he receives an outstanding education. This program is truly helping Simon, and our family, during this tough transitional period.
Click Here for more information on Homebound services.
Have you had any experience with the Homebound program? Share you stories here.
Great information, Nicole. I’ve always wondered if parents have to hire private tutors or homeschool in these instances. It’s so nice to know the resources are there. I hope Simon starts improving really soon.