We all know every child has different learning styles, needs, and preferences. It can be hard to tailor your homeschool to the varying needs of your children with an “all in one” or “open and go” curriculum. That’s when homeschooling online shines. With so many web-based options out there, it’s overwhelming hard to choose which one to go with. That’s why I am excited to share BrainPOP with you!
Disclaimer: I received this product for free, and I was compensated for my time for this post. As always, my opinions are honest and true to my personal experience with these products and services.
BrainPOP was created by a leading educational technology company. It is used by over six million educators in both traditional and home education settings. BrainPOP is like many other online platforms. You have a dashboard and create an individualized class with up to 4 learners. However, what makes BrainPOP so unique, in my opinion, is its the appeal to neurodivergent learners.
Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
Homeschooling a neurodivergent child is no small feat. I am not a doctor, and I do not have any specialized training. But, two of my three children are neurodivergent. Additionally, I was given a neurodivergent diagnosis earlier this year. Neurodivergence and its effects are a major reason we decided to homeschool in the first place. So, when I find a resource that appeals to this group of kiddos, I want to shout it from the rooftops! BrainPOP does just that.
Every topic of learning in BrainPOP Homeschool is introduced with a “movie.” I use quotations because these are actually short animated videos, but they are super engaging. Throughout the video, there are questions for the learner to answer to make sure they are understanding the topic. You, as the parent, have the ability to tailor these questions to your child’s grade level. So, right off the bat, learners are visually stimulated, and their comprehension is immediately evaluated. This creates an active learning experience from the start.
Additionally, BrainPOP encourages high-order critical thinking skills. This focus is vital for developing executive functioning skills for neurodivergent kids. Making a concept map, creating a movie, and inventing a new game by coding are all ways executive functioning skills are stimulated and practiced. It is pretty awesome if I do say so myself!
Core Subjects or Supplemental Learning?
So, I bet you are wondering if BrainPOP Homeschool is designed for core subjects or supplemental learning. While all subjects are included, this curriculum is best viewed as supplemental learning. Designed in units, you and your learner can choose topics like Greek Gods, Weather, Algebra, Conflict Resolution, Grammar, and so much more. Seriously, there are so many great topics. However, you would need more for a full year’s curriculum.
Furthermore, BrainPOP showcases a “Topic of the Day” on your homepage, and they will even give you recommendations based on your child’s grade. When you sign up, you get to choose from BrainPOP Homeschool, BrainPOP Homeschool Jr., or BrainPOP Homeschool Combo depending on your family’s needs.
Final Thoughts on Homeschooling Online with BrainPOP
While BrainPOP Homeschool is meant for all kids, I am so impressed with how their lessons and format appeal to neurodivergent kids. Because neurodivergence is a core characteristic of our family, I am always viewing resources through that lens. BrainPOP gives kids autonomy in how they learn, and feel ownership over their experience, which is a big deal to neurodivergent learners. When you sign up for an annual membership, you get two weeks free AND 28% off, so check out BrainPOP today!
