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The beginning of a new school year brings fresh notebooks, clean lunchboxes, and high hopes. But for many parents, it also brings quiet concerns—especially if your child has previously struggled with reading, writing, spelling, or math. If you're already noticing signs of frustration or your gut is telling you something isn't quite right, now is the time to open the door to honest communication with your child’s teacher. 💬 Start the Conversation Early Don't wait for the first report card. Teachers appreciate proactive communication and want to partner with you. Send a kind, thoughtful email or request a quick meeting: “I’ve noticed my child is struggling with [reading/spelling/math], and I’d love to hear how they’re doing in class. Could we connect soon to share observations?” This sets the tone for teamwork, not confrontation. You know your child best—and your insights can help teachers tailor support. 🔍 What to Share and Ask Share specific examples from home (e.g., avoiding reading, flipping letters, taking hours to complete homework). Ask if the teacher has noticed similar challenges. Inquire about what supports are already in place in the classroom. Ask if your child is reading/writing/performing math at grade level. 🚩 When to Consider an Evaluation If your child has consistent challenges in foundational areas like decoding, spelling, number sense, or written expression, and those struggles persist despite quality instruction, it may be time to request an evaluation. A psychoeducational evaluation (through the school or a private provider) can help determine if your child has a learning disability such as: Dyslexia (reading/spelling) Dysgraphia (writing) Dyscalculia (math) Early identification leads to early intervention—and that can change everything. 💡 Keep the Dialogue Open Academic struggles can feel emotional for both parents and children. Keeping an open, collaborative dialogue with your child’s teacher helps create a circle of support. You’re not alone—and neither is your child. My son, Ryker and his best buddy, Faith, on the first day of 8th grade-tomorrow high school here we come! At My Learning Farm , we help families navigate this journey with compassion, advocacy, and evidence-based support. Whether you need help interpreting an evaluation, understanding next steps, or boosting your child’s confidence—we’re here to help learning grow.

At My Learning Farm , we believe that every child deserves the tools to thrive . As the cost of living—and back-to-school supplies—continues to rise, many families are facing difficult decisions. That’s why we were honored to donate 11 fully stocked backpacks to local schools and students in need this season. Each backpack was filled with essential supplies—folders, pencils, crayons, notebooks, glue, and more—to help students start the year confident and prepared. It's a small gesture with a big impact, and we’re grateful to support the children and families in our community. We know that education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and sometimes, a little support at the right time can make all the difference. Whether it’s through tutoring, homeschool support, or a simple backpack—we’re here because we care. 💚 At My Learning Farm, we’re more than a program—we’re a partner in your child’s journey. Everything we do at My Learning Farm is a family affair-thank you to ronni (my mom) and Ava & Ryker (my kiddos) To learn more about what we do or how you can get involved, visit us at www.mylearningfarm.com . #BackpackDrive #CommunitySupport #MyLearningFarm #KidsFirst #BackToSchool

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 the heart of what I do. That’s why I proudly partner with 4-H , sponsor youth livestock projects , and stay actively involved in local and state agricultural events . Agriculture teaches responsibility, discipline, and real-world problem-solving—skills that shape confident, capable young leaders. Through hands-on projects and animal care, youth learn what it means to commit, work hard, and see a goal through. I'm honored to host 4-H projects on the farm , offering space for kids to learn and grow with their animals in a safe and supportive environment. Each year, I sponsor awards at the Gold Country Fair , recognizing youth who pour time, heart, and dedication into their ag projects. I also sponsor youth animal projects , ensuring every child—regardless of financial circumstance—has the opportunity to participate. Our support doesn’t stop at the county level. We’re proud to volunteer at the California State Fair Llama and Alpaca Show , helping organize events and encourage a love of livestock education among youth exhibitors from across the state. At My Learning Farm, agriculture and education go hand-in-hand. I'm building a future where young people connect with the land, understand where their food comes from, and gain confidence through learning. Whether it’s through reading support or raising a lamb, I believe kids thrive when they are challenged, supported, and celebrated. Because when you invest in youth, you invest in the future. #4H #YouthInAg #MyLearningFarm #GoldCountryFair #CaliforniaStateFair #AgEducation

Check out the article about My Learning Farm in the July edition of Loomis Magazine! I LOVE talking about all-things My Learning Farm, a business and job I love-working with kiddos to build reading, writing, math, spelling skills, teaching farm classes, IEP/504 plan advocacy, homeschool consultations and assessments-all help kids and families THRIVE.

Protect Homeschool Freedom in California AB-84 threatens homeschoolers by slashing funding for non-classroom-based programs. This means fewer vendors, less enrichment, and reduced access for students—especially those with special needs, i dds unnecessary oversight and removes the flexibility homeschool families depend on.   ACTION NEEDED: Call the Senate Education Committee Before July 16 & ask them to vote NO on AB-84. Tell them: Your name, zip code and position:NO AB-84 harms educational choice. Families need access to flexible, student-centered learning. This bill hurts vulnerable learners and thriving homeschoolers alike.   Senate Education Committee – Call Before July 16: Ask them to VOTE NO on AB-84 Sen. Sasha Renée Pérez (Chair - D-25) – N  (916) 651-4025 Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (Vice Chair - R-19) –  (916) 651-4019 Sen. Christopher Cabaldon (D-03) –  (916) 651-4003 Sen. Steve Choi (R-37) –    (916) 651-4037 Sen. Dave Cortese (D-15) –  (916) 651-4015 Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D-33) –  (916) 651-4033 Sen. Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-29) – No position  (916) 651-4029  Your voice matters. Call today. Say NO to AB-84!!!!!!!

Protect Homeschool Freedom in California! AB-84 is a dangerous bill that threatens the heart of homeschooling in California. This bill will drastically cut funding for non-classroom-based programs, effectively eliminating enrichment, curriculum vendors, and educational opportunities for tens of thousands of homeschooled students. It creates unnecessary oversight, strips families of flexibility, and hurts students who thrive outside traditional school settings.We must act NOW to stop AB-84. The Senate Education Committee votes on July 16! 📞 Here's What You Can Do: Call the members of the Senate Education Committee and urge them to VOTE NO on AB-84. Let them know: AB-84 discriminates against homeschoolers and undermines educational choice. Families deserve access to flexible, student-centered options that public programs currently offer.Cutting funding and limiting vendor use harms special needs students, low-income families, and gifted learners who depend on these services.Homeschooling has proven to be an effective, community-based educational model that should be supported—not dismantled. 🗳 Contact Info – CALL BEFORE JULY 16: 📍Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (Chair – Dem-25)📞 (916) 651-4025 📍Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (Vice Chair – Rep-19)📞 (916) 651-4019 📍Senator Christopher Cabaldon (Dem-03)📞 (916) 651-4003 📍Senator Steven “Steve” Choi (Rep-37)📞 (916) 651-4037 📍Senator Dave Cortese (Dem-15)📞 (916) 651-4015 📍Senator Lena Gonzalez (Dem-33)📞 (916) 651-4033 📍Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes (Dem-29)📞 (916) 651-4029 💥 YOUR VOICE MATTERS. Call today. Protect homeschool freedom. Say NO to AB-84. Hands-on, project-based My Learning Farm Class www.mylearningfarm.com

Educational Freedom looks like kids learning through unique opportunities at My Learning Farm If you care about educational freedom, if you believe in the right to choose the best path for your child’s learning, and if you’ve seen the power of homeschooling— now is the time to act . AB-84, authored by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, is a direct attack on the heart of homeschooling in California. This bill, if passed, will cripple funding , eliminate vendor and enrichment programs , and strip tens of thousands of homeschool families of essential educational resources . It’s not just a bill. It’s a bulldozer aimed at the opportunities and support systems that make home education in California vibrant, diverse, and accessible. This bill will: Slash student funding Destroy relationships with trusted vendors and community programs Severely limit enrichment opportunities Harm neurodiverse and special needs learners who rely on individualized, flexible education It’s urgent. It’s real. And it’s happening fast. 🚨 The Education Committee Hearing is on July 16 at 9:00 AM . We need to flood that room—and every inbox in the Capitol—with the clear message: WE WILL NOT STAND BY. OUR KIDS DESERVE BETTER. Here’s how you can help—today: ✅  Sign the petition  opposing AB-84 ✅  Submit your Opposition Letter  to legislators (a heartfelt letter goes a long way!) ✅  Show up in person  at the July 16 hearing in Sacramento 1021 O Street, Sacramento Senate Education Committee Room 2100, 9am

This summer, my family celebrated a huge milestone—my daughter’s high school graduation. Her achievement was especially meaningful as she has worked incredibly hard to overcome dyslexia, dyscalculia, and anxiety . We marked the occasion with a long-awaited family trip to France and Italy , filled with beauty, laughter, unforgettable memories, and so much joy. While the trip was wonderful, one unexpected moment of reflection stood out to me. As we navigated foreign cities, I found myself unable to rely on reading to get us from place to place. I struggled to read train schedules, street signs, restaurant menus , and billboards —all because I couldn’t understand the French or Italian languages. Suddenly, I had a small glimpse into what life can feel like for individuals with dyslexia —especially in their early years before they develop strong reading skills. This experience gave me a much deeper empathy for my husband, my son, my daughter (they all have dyslexia), and all the students I work with at My Learning Farm who are growing through their own reading challenges. I was reminded of how brave, determined, and resilient my kids have been—working hard to become confident readers despite how vulnerable and overwhelmed they must have felt at times. The gift of reading is truly life-changing . It builds confidence, independence, and opens up the world. If your child is struggling with reading, writing, spelling, or math , I invite you to reach out to My Learning Farm . I offer compassionate, individualized support for learners with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia , and more—both in person and online. Let’s work together to build a strong foundation and a brighter future for your child.

Dyslexia is one of the most common—but often misunderstood—learning differences in children. According to the International Dyslexia Association , dyslexia is defined as: “A specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition, poor spelling, and decoding abilities. These challenges typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language, which is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems with reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can limit vocabulary growth and background knowledge.” Why the Word “Unexpected” Matters One of the most powerful words in this definition is "unexpected." That’s because children with dyslexia are often bright, capable, and hardworking —yet they struggle with reading in ways that don’t match their intelligence or effort. Dyslexia is not related to low intelligence , laziness, or lack of motivation. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia are incredibly successful in school, work, and life—with the right support. Early identification and evidence-based interventions can make a world of difference in helping your child thrive. Common Signs of Dyslexia in Children: Difficulty learning letter sounds and matching them to letters Struggles with reading fluency, decoding, and spelling Avoidance of reading or frustration during reading activities Trouble remembering sequences, instructions, or directions A family history of reading difficulties or diagnosed dyslexia What Parents Can Do If your child is experiencing unexpected difficulties in reading , don’t wait. Early intervention is critical to helping children with dyslexia build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. At My Learning Farm , we specialize in supporting children with dyslexia through personalized, evidence-based instruction. Our goal is to help every learner unlock their full potential and build a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Cultivating student success and confidence are the pillars of My Learning Farm 📞 Need help or have questions? Visit www.mylearningfarm.com to learn more or schedule a consultation.

My Learning Farm provides IEP/504 Plan support for families. Struggling to get the support your child needs in school? Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to requesting an IEP or 504 Plan evaluation — with timelines, tips, and tools every parent should know! 💡 ✅ Step 1: Identify the Need Take a close look at your child’s:➖ Academic struggles➖ Emotional/behavioral concerns➖ Medical or attention needsDocument what you see at home. These notes will help guide the school team. ✅ Step 2: Meet with the Teacher 👩‍🏫 Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher(s).Schools may suggest an SST (Student Study Team) to try extra support before formal testing. It’s a great starting point—but not required to request evaluations! ✅ Step 3: Submit a Written Evaluation Request ✍️If concerns continue, you have the legal right to request a full psychoeducational evaluation. Write a letter to the principal or special ed coordinator with:✔️ Your child’s name & grade✔️ Areas of concern (academic, emotional, etc.)✔️ A formal request for evaluations under IDEA/ADA laws 🕒 Timeline: The school has 15 calendar days to respond with an Assessment Plan (AP). ✅ Step 4: Review & Sign the Assessment Plan Double-check that all your concerns are covered.🛑 Testing can’t begin until you sign and return the AP. ✅ Step 5: Evaluation + IEP/504 Meeting Once signed, the school has 60 calendar days (not including long breaks) to:📌 Complete testing📌 Hold a meeting to review resultsIf your child qualifies, a custom plan will be created with goals, services, and accommodations. ✅ Step 6: Give Consent 🖊️ You must sign the IEP or 504 Plan before services can start. 🌱 Need Help Navigating the IEP or 504 Process? It can be confusing—but you’re not alone!At My Learning Farm , we walk alongside families through every step of the process—from letters to meetings to success. 📲 Book a consult at www.mylearningfarm.com

Dear Friends of Educational Freedom, On June 2, AB 84 passed the full Assembly floor. The bill will now move to the Senate and be reviewed by the Senate Education Committee. During discussion on the Assembly floor, some legislators claimed that concerns about AB 84 stem from misunderstandings and insisted that the bill is not intended to shut down non-classroom-based (NCB) charter schools, including homeschool programs. However, the language of the bill tells a different story—and that language remains unchanged. ⚠️  What’s at Stake? AB 84 does not outright ban NCB charter schools, but it imposes restrictions that would make our homeschool model nearly impossible to operate. A key section of the bill— Section 44 —directly targets the flexibility and parent involvement that define homeschool-NCB programs. 📌  What Does Section 44 Say? Section 51749.7 of the Education Code  would: Prohibit  local educational agencies (including NCB charters) from offering or even advertising instructional funds that parents can use at their discretion for enrichment activities. Limit  enrichment to activities provided only  by credentialed school staff, removing access to music lessons, art, tutoring, and specialized learning programs—even when part of a teacher-approved learning plan. This means families would lose the ability to choose the best educational resources for their children. Meanwhile, district-run programs  would be exempt under subsection (b), giving them continued access to outside enrichment providers—creating a double standard and unfairly disadvantaging homeschool families. 🚨  What This Means for Families: ❌  Eliminates parent-directed instructional funds ❌  Removes educational choices and vendor access ❌  Strips homeschool programs of the flexibility that makes them effective ❌  Applies different rules to district schools vs. charter schools ✅  Protects the status quo for traditional schools This bill does not name homeschool-NCB charters directly, but Section 44 clearly and deliberately dismantles their structure—creating a backdoor path to forcing these programs to shut down. 📣  Take Action Today We urge you to contact your state senator  and the Senate Education Committee . Ask them to: Vote NO on AB 84 Request the full removal of Section 44  from the bill 🧭  Here's how: 🔎  Find your state senator: 👉  https://findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov 📬  Contact the Senate Education Committee: Email:   SEDN.committee@senate.ca.gov Phone:  (916) 651-4105 Members & contact info: 👉  https://sedn.senate.ca.gov/members Educational Freedom looks like this: parents choosing enriching, hands-on, experiential learning taught by qualified passionate providers like My Learning Farm

As a parent, you want your child to thrive both academically and emotionally. But how can you tell if your child is falling behind in school? Here are some of the most common signs that your child may be struggling with reading, writing, or math: General Signs of Academic Struggles Low scores on assessments, report cards, or progress reports Teacher or parent concerns based on observation Difficulty keeping up with grade-level expectations in reading, writing, or math Takes an unusually long time to complete homework and requires frequent parental help Expresses frustration, embarrassment, or dislike of school Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Reading Trouble recognizing letters or matching them to sounds Difficulty with sight words and phonics rule application Reads word by word without fluency or expression Doesn’t understand that text is read from left to right Struggles with comprehension and retelling what they’ve read Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Writing Inconsistent use of capitalization and punctuation Letter reversals (e.g., mixing up “b” and “d”) or inserting capital letters randomly Trouble with spelling , including high-frequency or phonetic words Poor spacing between words and awkward sentence structure Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Math Difficulty writing numbers correctly Lacks understanding of place value Struggles with basic math operations : addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division Inconsistent ability to solve word problems or apply strategies If you’re noticing any of these signs, your child may benefit from academic support, early intervention, or a learning evaluation. Early identification is key to helping children build confidence and skills in the classroom. My Learning Farm, a place where learning grows classroom builds skills for student of all ages and abilities. 📩 Need support? Contact My Learning Farm to learn how we help children succeed through personalized instruction and compassionate, skill-building sessions.