In the New Yorker ’s recent article “Dyslexia and the Reading Wars,” David Owen lays bare a frustrating truth: effective, scientifically supported methods for teaching struggling readers have existed for decades — yet far too many schools still don’t use them. The New Yorker 🧠 What the Article Reveals The article pulls together research and expert voices showing that: Dyslexia is a real, neurological challenge that affects reading, spelling, and language processing, not a

One of the most confusing experiences for parents is watching a bright, capable child struggle with reading . Dyslexia does not reflect intelligence. It reflects how the brain processes written language. Many children with dyslexia have strong verbal skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Because of this, their reading struggles are often misunderstood or minimized. At My Learning Farm , strengths are celebrated while reading skills are taught explicitly through s

If your child is trying so hard in math but still struggles to remember facts, understand numbers, or keep steps organized, it can feel confusing — and honestly, a little heartbreaking. Many families who come to My Learning Farm share the same quiet question with me: Why is math so hard for my child when they’re so capable in other ways? For some children, the answer is dyscalculia — a learning difference that affects how the brain understands numbers and mathematical ideas

If your child is bright, curious, and hardworking — yet reading feels unusually difficult — you’re not alone. Many families come to My Learning Farm wondering if dyslexia might be part of their child’s learning profile. Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference , not a lack of intelligence or effort. Research shows that dyslexia affects how the brain processes sounds and written language, making decoding, spelling, and fluent reading harder without explicit instruction

Check out My Learning Farm videos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mylearningfarmplacer/ or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sara.mattia What if I told you there is a proven, science-backed way to help struggling readers make sense of reading—one that aligns with how the brain actually learns? It’s called Structured Literacy , and for so many children, it changes everything. At My Learning Farm in Penryn, CA, we use this approach every single day to help students wi

A recent article in The Atlantic paints a sobering picture of the state of reading and education in America—and it’s something we’re seeing firsthand with so many students who come to My Learning Farm for help. FULL ARTICLE 👉 Key takeaways: • National reading scores have fallen to their lowest levels in 25+ years . • 1 in 3 eighth graders can’t summarize basic text (NAEP “below basic”). • Progress declined long before COVID —the pandemic only made it worse. • Declines hit

As you prepare to meet with your child’s teacher, remember — this is the perfect time to check in on your child’s progress, goals, and supports. 💬 If your child is struggling with reading, writing, spelling, or math , or if you’re wondering whether their current plan (IEP, 504, or general education supports) is truly meeting their needs, here are a few questions you might ask during your meeting: ✨ Academic Progress What specific skills has my child mastere? Where are they

My Learning Farm Classes have officially come to a close — and what an incredible 8 weeks it’s been-thank you!!!! We ended with the sweetest finale — transforming the Big Red Barn into a veterinary clinic . Huge thanks to Dr. Jill Higgins, DVM, for teaching our young farmers all about animal care and inspiring the next generation of animal lovers! To our amazing farm helpers — Nonni, Chloe, Landon, Liam, and Hudson — your leadership and laughter make every Friday brighter. An

October 13, 2025 , Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 414 , a bill designed to strengthen charter school oversight while preserving the flexibility and innovation that make personalized and flex-based learning possible. Often referred to as the “sister, more sensible bill” to AB 84 — the controversial proposal many homeschool families called the “homeschool killer bill” — SB 414 represented a more balanced approach that sought accountability without eliminating choi

Resources to Support Students Who Learn Differently At My Learning Farm , we believe that every child can grow and thrive when given the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities to learn in ways that make sense for them. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of the My Learning Farm Teachers Pay Teachers Store  — a growing collection of educational resources designed to support parents, educators, homeschool families, and advocates  who work with students who le

Celebrating Every Student's Success! October is Dyslexia Awareness Month  — a time to shine a light on the 1 in 5 students who think and...

I am not ashamed to say, that I have relied on support for my kids and am so grateful to those who helped build their skills, mentor,...

We are thrilled to share that My Learning Farm was recently featured on Good Day Sacramento ! The segment gave viewers a glimpse into the...

As the California legislative session comes to a close, we have important news to share—news that brings both relief and celebration for...

Yesterday, August 29, AB-84 cleared the Senate Appropriations Committee and now heads to the full Senate for a floor vote in the coming...

This week brought encouraging news for homeschool and charter school families across California: AB-84 has been placed in the Senate...

When county offices of education & large districts warn AB 84 will harm students, schools, and taxpayers—lawmakers should listen. But the...

The beginning of a new school year brings fresh notebooks, clean lunchboxes, and high hopes. But for many parents, it also brings quiet...

At My Learning Farm , we believe that every child deserves the tools to thrive . As the cost of living—and back-to-school...

At My Learning Farm , I believe in nurturing both minds and hands. Supporting youth in agriculture isn’t just part of my mission—it’s at...