Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, N

Elyse Scheeler MS CCC-SLP, Special Needs & Homeschool Strategy Coach, Advocate
  • 5.0 (41)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

**Top 3% Globally Ranked Podcast!** Are you a Christian mom exhausted from  navigating a tough season with your child? Are you worried your child is not developing normally, but have been told to "wait and see"?  Has your child already been identified as having additional needs? I'm Elyse, Speech Language Pathologist, Special Needs and Homeschool Strategy Coach, Family Advocate and a mom who has walked this journey. After being dismissed by providers about my own son's needs, I had to learn how to advocate fiercely—and I discovered how often exhausted moms like us are told to just "wait and see" when we know something more is needed. That's why I created Speaking Life Into Motherhood. Each week, you'll gain the tools and confidence to advocate for your child whether you just have general concerns and are trying to be proactive, or your child has a speech delay, ADHD, autism, or developmental diagnosis, my goal is for you to feel supported and seen. You'll learn about typical development, alternative strategies that actually simplify your life (not complicate it), discover simple systems that create healthy rhythms for your neurodivergent family, and receive biblical truth that meets you right where you are in the trenches of motherhood. Whether you're navigating IEPs or trying to decide whether to homeschool your child- searching for alternatives to medication, or just trying to get through the day with energy left for yourself, this podcast equips you with what you need to make the best decisions for your child—and finally feel empowered instead of overwhelmed.

  1. 1d ago

    Beyond the IEP: A Homeschool Framework for Exhausted Moms of Kids With Additional Needs// 76

    Have you ever raised a concern about your child to a doctor or a teacher, only to be told, "It's fine, don't worry about it"? Do you actually know what an IEP provides — or are you making a decision about your child's education based on fear of what you assume you can't replicate at home? And if your child already has a diagnosis, do you know that doesn't automatically guarantee them services in the public schools? In this solo episode, I'm sharing the talk I gave at the very first Wisconsin Homeschool Expo — "Beyond the IEP." I walk through what an IEP really is (and isn't), the real number of minutes most kids receive in specially designed instruction, and how any parent — homeschooling or not — can build their own simple home education plan using the same four-part framework schools use: present levels, goals, accommodations, and services. Resources mentioned in this episode: Advocacy Toolkit (scripts and tools for talking to doctors and teachers): speakinglife.co/advocacySpecial Needs Clarity Coaching — a 60-minute clarity call on your child's next stepsHomeschool Strategy Session — help outlining a home education plan for your childSpeaking Life Into Homeschool — my 12-week coaching program, starting back up in September While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  2. Aug 6

    Don't Skip Prayer, Don't Skip Self-Care: A Homeschool Advocate's Honest Advice //75

    Is your child being bullied — and have you actually stopped to ask where it's happening? Are you buying the whole curriculum bundle because it feels safer, only to lose your mind trying to pace it? And when an IEP meeting leaves you feeling dismissed, do you know how to advocate without becoming adversarial? In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Lasik, co-owner of Learning Tree Christian Education Services and a former teacher and school administrator, to talk about what it really takes to start homeschooling with confidence — especially when your child has additional needs. Jennifer shares her own family's story of walking through a faith crisis with her daughter, how she became an unexpected advocate for her niece's IEP and graduation, and the practical, first-step framework every parent needs before they choose a curriculum. Connect with Jennifer: Learning Tree Christian Education Services — LTCES.org Find Jennifer at the Speaking Life Into Homeschool Expo, where Learning Tree is a gold sponsor. Resources mentioned: The PEACE Framework — speakinglife.co/peaceLearning Tree Christian Education Services — LTCES.orgSpeaking Life Into Homeschool Expo, August 16, 2026, Waukesha Expo Center — speakinglife.co/homeschool While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  3. Jul 29

    Is My Child Behind in Reading? Why Phonics Fixes What Sight Words Broke //74

    Does your child need to be reading by age five — or is that pressure setting your family up for unnecessary tears? Are sight words secretly working against your child's ability to actually read, instead of just guess? And if your homeschooler is years "behind" grade level, is it too late to fix the gap? In this episode, I sit down with Melanie Jeffrey — former K-3 classroom teacher and host of the top-ranked Phonics for Homeschool Moms podcast — to break down what real reading instruction looks like at home. We cover developmentally appropriate reading timelines, why phonics-based instruction beats whole-language/sight-word approaches, playful ways to build early reading skills, and how to help older or struggling readers (including kids with suspected dyslexia) close the gap without shame or burnout. Connect with Melanie: Website: phonicsrulesforkids.com Podcast: Phonics for Homeschool Moms Resources mentioned: Superhero Sounds Drill (car game for blending/segmenting)CVC words (consonant-vowel-consonant) as first reading wordsMelanie's curriculum: Teach K-2 Child to Read: From CVC Words to Confident Reader While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  4. Jul 24

    "I've Had It Too": Why Needing a Break Doesn't Make You a Bad Mom // 73

    Have you ever needed a break from your kids and wondered what that says about you as a mom? What if the thing that's throwing off your whole season isn't a big dramatic crisis, but something small and undramatic that quietly changed everything underneath it? And can wanting rest and loving your kids well actually be the same thing? In this episode, I respond to the viral comments from a host on the "I've Had It" podcast about homeschooling and needing to "get her kids out of the house" — but instead of arguing the politics of it, she turns the conversation toward the mama who felt a flicker of guilt in the reaction to it. I share about a recent fall that's thrown off our entire summer and left me with ongoing mobility issues, what I'm learning about rest and being equipped through Philippians 1:6, and why respite isn't something to feel guilty about — it's part of the plan. In this episode: The viral podcast comments that have homeschool families buzzing, and why the real conversation isn't about herElyse's recent fall and what an "undramatic" injury taught her about the extra weight of hard seasonsPhilippians 1:6 — being equipped doesn't mean having it all figured outWhat planned respite actually looks like for special needs familiesOne small, doable step to take this week if you're in a season of overwhelmResources mentioned: Homeschool Strategy Session — a 60-minute call to build your homeschool foundation: speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanSpeaking Life Into Homeschool group coaching — next cohort launching September: speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  5. Jul 8

    America's 250th: The Untold Sacrifices Behind "We Hold These Truths" // 72

    Do you ever feel like you're teaching your kids the same dry, disconnected list of historical events without helping them connect to the real people behind it? Have you wondered how to raise kids who feel genuine pride in their country instead of confusion over conflicting narratives? And if you're anything like me, have you caught yourself thinking "I didn't know that" more times than you'd like to admit when it comes to our own American history? In today's episode, I sit down with Janie Nitze — co-author with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch of the new children's picture book Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence. We talk about the ordinary men, women, and even children who risked everything for the cause of independence, why the illustrations and storytelling in this book read like a true living book, and how the sacrifices of the founding generation can inspire courage in our own kids today. As we celebrate America's 250th, I think you'll walk away from this conversation with a renewed sense of gratitude and a wonderful resource to share history with your kiddos. Connect with Janie: Book: Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Neil Gorsuch and Janie Nitze, illustrated by Chris EllisonAvailable at your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon (audio version also available)Also by Janie Nitze and Justice Neil Gorsuch: Overruled and A Republic, If You Can Keep It While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  6. Jun 9

    Is Sensory Processing Disorder Causing Your Child's Meltdowns? Sensory Needs, Primitive Reflexes, Emotional Dysregulation in Your Homeschool //71

    Are you afraid to pull your child out of school because they're receiving occupational therapy and you don't want them to lose those services?  Do you find yourself wondering if your child's meltdowns and emotional outbursts are a behavior problem—or something deeper going on in their nervous system?  Are you overwhelmed by sensory needs and have no idea where to even start? In this episode, I'm joined again by Tiffany Parsons, pediatric occupational therapist, homeschool mom of twins, and micro school teacher, for a conversation that is going to change the way you think about your child's behavior AND your homeschool. We're talking about the eight senses (yes, eight!), how primitive reflexes affect emotional regulation, why your child's meltdowns aren't a discipline problem, and what OT actually looks like outside of the school system. Connect with Tiffany: Facebook: Homeschool OT Tiffany Parsons Resources Mentioned: All Different Yet the Same by Tiffany Parsons — available on AmazonCalm Connection Parenting with Jami Kirkbride (uniquely wired kids coaching) While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  7. Jun 1

    How To Try Out Homeschooling This Summer (Hint: It's not what you think) //70

    Are you thinking about homeschooling this fall — but feeling overwhelmed by where to even begin? What if the best thing you could do this summer had nothing to do with curriculum? Are you ready to stop replicating school at home and start rediscovering the joy of learning together? Could this summer actually be the foundation your whole homeschool year is built on — if you know how to use it? In this episode, I'm sharing six practical focuses for families who want to try out homeschooling this summer — and I promise, none of them involve workbooks or lesson plans. From deschooling and interest-led learning to building rhythms, caring for your littles, tending to yourself, and building an emotional regulation foundation, this episode will help you step into fall with confidence and peace instead of panic. Resources Mentioned: Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program (founding member pricing + bonuses — starts June 15!) → speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanFree Preschool & Early Elementary Visual Schedule + Calm Down Area Resource → https://speakinglife.co/visuals/Simplified Feast Summer Curriculum → Episode with Janée Daniels on deschooling → Episode on visuals and how to use them →  While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

  8. May 24

    Do You Feel Like You're Not Qualified to Homeschool? The Homeschool How To's Cheryl Daley Has News for You //69

    **Homeschool Mini Series! I'm taking a few weeks to do a mini series focusing on homeschooling and home educating- perfect for those who are thinking about a change come fall or just need ideas for ways to keep learning fun and engaging this summer break!** Are you dreaming about homeschooling but convinced you're not qualified—or that your child's additional needs make it impossible? What if everything you think school has to look like is actually holding you back? Could your "unschooling" moments already be the best education your child is getting? In this episode, I sit down with Cheryl Daly, host of The Homeschool How To podcast, who has interviewed over 200 homeschooling families from all over the world.  We talk about what homeschool can actually look like day-to-day, why neurodivergent kids often thrive outside traditional classrooms, and how you can start without quitting your job or buying a $500 curriculum. If you've been on the fence, this conversation might be the push you've been waiting for. Connect with Cheryl:  🎙️ Podcast: The Homeschool How To  🌐 Website: thehomeschoolhowto.com  📱 Instagram: @thehomeschoolhowtopodcast Resources Mentioned: The Homeschool How To e-book (find at thehomeschoolhowto.com)Work & Homeschool Course by Cheryl DalyTreehouse Schoolhouse unit studiesDumbing Us Down by John Taylor GattoTuttle Twins booksHSLDA.org – state-by-state homeschool requirements While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler Subscribe: Speaking Life Into MotherhoodWebsite: www.speakinglife.co/motherhoodEmail: hello@speakinglife.coFacebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural SupportEmail Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplanDisclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

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About

**Top 3% Globally Ranked Podcast!** Are you a Christian mom exhausted from  navigating a tough season with your child? Are you worried your child is not developing normally, but have been told to "wait and see"?  Has your child already been identified as having additional needs? I'm Elyse, Speech Language Pathologist, Special Needs and Homeschool Strategy Coach, Family Advocate and a mom who has walked this journey. After being dismissed by providers about my own son's needs, I had to learn how to advocate fiercely—and I discovered how often exhausted moms like us are told to just "wait and see" when we know something more is needed. That's why I created Speaking Life Into Motherhood. Each week, you'll gain the tools and confidence to advocate for your child whether you just have general concerns and are trying to be proactive, or your child has a speech delay, ADHD, autism, or developmental diagnosis, my goal is for you to feel supported and seen. You'll learn about typical development, alternative strategies that actually simplify your life (not complicate it), discover simple systems that create healthy rhythms for your neurodivergent family, and receive biblical truth that meets you right where you are in the trenches of motherhood. Whether you're navigating IEPs or trying to decide whether to homeschool your child- searching for alternatives to medication, or just trying to get through the day with energy left for yourself, this podcast equips you with what you need to make the best decisions for your child—and finally feel empowered instead of overwhelmed.

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