Raising Lifelong Learners

Raising Lifelong Learners

Colleen Kessler

Episodes 308
Avg. Duration 38m
Activity Highly Active
Apple Rating 4.9 (199)
Since Jan 2018
Latest Episode Jun 2026

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Open to Sponsors Features Guests

Publishing Details

Schedule
Weekly
Format
Episodic
Consistency
41%
Hosting
rss.libsyn.com

Contact & Outreach

About This Podcast

The Raising Lifelong Learners podcast helps homeschooling parents encourage their differently-wired kids to learn, explore passions, cultivate creativity, and become fascinated by the world around them. Join host Colleen Kessler -- educational consultant, gifted specialist, author, and speaker -- for interviews, audioblogs, tips, and encouragement to help your differently-wired kiddos become lifelong learners -- children who know that they can find the answers to anything they want to know if they can just view their world with play, passion, and fascination.

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Recent Episodes

Project-Based Learning for Neurodivergent Kids: Why It Works

Jun 11, 2026 33m

This week's episode dives into one of the most powerful tools for motivating and engaging neurodivergent learners: project-based learning—but not the Pinterest-perfect kind! The conversation focused…

When Perfectionism Looks Like Avoidance

May 29, 2026 25m

Have you ever watched your child melt down before a project even begins, refuse to try unless they're sure they'll succeed, or abandon something halfway through? If so, you're not alone—and it's not…

Beating Boredom Without Busy Work: Motivating Neurodivergent Learners at Home

May 20, 2026 30m

This week, we're diving into a challenge many homeschooling families face—especially those parenting gifted, twice-exceptional, or otherwise neurodivergent kids: boredom. If you've ever heard, "I'm…

When Passions Turn Into Pathways: Rethinking Motivation and Learning for Neurodivergent Kids

May 14, 2026 50m

In this episode, we dive deeper into the topic of motivating our kids, especially when traditional schoolwork leads to resistance or meltdowns. Building on last week's discussion about motivation…

Understanding Executive Function vs Motivation in Neurodivergent Learners

May 06, 2026 44m

Do you ever wonder why your child, who can spend hours building or creating something they love, just can't seem to get started on a simple task? Does it seem like they're just not motivated—even…

Confidently Planning Your Homeschool Year: Tools, Tips, and Real-Life Strategies

Apr 22, 2026 50m

As another homeschool year draws to a close, it's tempting to simply exhale, set the books aside, and let all thoughts of structured learning drift away on the spring breeze. After all, by the time…

Social Energy, Recovery Plans, and Connection for Neurodivergent Families

Apr 08, 2026 36m

This week, we wrapped up our five-episode series all about social life and friendship for neurodivergent homeschooled kiddos. Episode 311 digs into a topic many families experience but often don't…

"I Don't Want Friends": When Your Homeschooler Prefers Solitude

Apr 01, 2026 45m

This week, we're exploring an important and sometimes misunderstood topic: what to do when our neurodivergent kids are happier alone and genuinely prefer solitude over social interactions. Key…

When Friendship Feels Impossible: Supporting Neurodivergent Kids Through Rejection

Mar 19, 2026 34m

As parents and educators, we all want to nurture resilience and empathy in our children—especially when it comes to social skills and building friendships. In the latest episode of the podcast,…

Beyond Be Yourself: Social Scripts That Build Connection for Neurodivergent Kids

Mar 12, 2026 43m

Struggling with social skills practice that actually feels natural? This week on the podcast, we're diving deep into practical, respectful ways to support our neurodivergent kiddos as they navigate…

When Homeschool Co-Ops Don't Work: Friendship Strategies for Neurodivergent Kids

Feb 25, 2026 37m

Feeling lonely in your homeschool journey because co-ops just don't fit? You are NOT failing—neither are your kiddos. In this episode, Colleen shares why neurodivergent kids often struggle with…

When Bedtime Becomes a Battleground

Feb 19, 2026 58m

Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Curiosity Post – A Snail Mail Club for kids – Real mail; Real life! …

Performance Anxiety, Assessments, and Our Complex Kids

Feb 05, 2026 1h 13m

As parents, educators, and advocates for neurodivergent kids, it's crucial to recognize that traditional tests and assessments don't always paint the full picture of a child's abilities. In the…

Helping Kids Who Resist: Low-Demand Homeschooling for Autonomy and Skill-Building

Jan 28, 2026 37m

If you've ever felt frustrated when your child resists even enjoyable activities, you're not alone. In this week's episode, we dive deep into demand avoidance—why neurodivergent kiddos sometimes just…

Meltdowns vs. Shutdowns: Understanding and Responding to Big Feelings in Neurodivergent Kids

Jan 23, 2026 48m

In this week's episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the signs, strategies, and real-life tips for helping your differently wired kids (and yourself!) navigate emotional storms. Key Takeaways: …

When School Refusal Turns Into a Healing Journey

Jan 18, 2026 49m

In this week's episode of the podcast, we talk candidly about what school refusal really means for children and their families, and how homeschooling can offer a path toward healing, connection, and…

Navigating the Holidays with Intense and Sensitive Kids

Dec 17, 2025 26m

As the holidays approach, many families experience a swirl of excitement, chaos, and sometimes overwhelm. On the latest episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the realities of parenting and…

Picky Eating | Sensory Struggles and Real Solutions for Homeschooling Families

Dec 15, 2025 44m

If mealtimes sometimes feel more like hostage negotiations than family gatherings – you're not alone! In our latest episode of the podcast, we explore the sensory reasons behind picky eating,…

Movement on Bad Weather Days: Meeting Sensory Needs at Home

Dec 05, 2025 40m

Icky Weather can throw off routines, especially for differently wired kiddos with sensory needs. When outdoor time isn't an option, you might notice more fidgeting, zoning out, or struggles with…

Sensory Struggles and Clothes: How to Help Your Child Dress Without Tears

Nov 12, 2025 52m

We know mornings can feel like a battlefield when sensory issues and clothing collide, leaving kids (and parents!) frustrated before the day even begins. That's why this week's podcast episode dives…

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Raising Lifelong Learners have?

Raising Lifelong Learners has published 308 episodes since January 2018, covering topics in Kids & Family, Parenting.

Is Raising Lifelong Learners still active?

Raising Lifelong Learners is currently highly active with new episodes weekly. Average episode length is 38m.

How do I contact Raising Lifelong Learners for sponsorship or guest appearances?

Sign up on Grep.FM to access contact details for Raising Lifelong Learners, including email and social media links.

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