To provide a safe and supportive learning environment for kids who learn differently.
To nurture community and belonging for families who do things differently.
To instill confidence and a sense of pride in kids who experience the world differently.
Regulation Support
Did you know that “regulated” is not the same as “calm?” Being regulated means your energy level matches the task at hand and you feel in control of your body. So instead of concentrating on breathing exercises or naming feelings, we offer more well-rounded support that includes having different sensory stations (i.e. a “spa” and a “gym”), getting to know your own sensory profile, and modeling self-regulation through co-regulation. Learn more here.
Collaborative and
Proactive Solutions
A method for addressing “concerning” behaviors in kids based on the idea that “kids do well when they can." It helps us identify the problems that are behind certain behaviors and then work with the child to solve them. Instead of rewards and consequences, we focus on connection and collaboration. Learn more here.
Neuro-affirming Practice
The key pillars are autonomy, agency, accommodation, and acceptance. While this approach was developed as a better way to support neurodivergent children than the usual compliance- and conformity-based methods, it is truly beneficial to all children. Learn more here.
Our Approach
Where We Learn
-
Currently located in a private home with typical home furnishings to evoke a comfortable, home-learning vibe.
-
Shelves full of board games, books, puzzles, and creative toys.
-
A crash pad and sensory play items inside, and a large play area with playset outside.
-
Accommodations are built in and freely available, no need to ask or justify the need.
What We Learn
-
Critical thinking
-
Problem solving
-
Media literacy
-
Self-awareness
-
Self-advocacy
How We Learn
Children learn best when it is meaningful, and we make that happen with:
-
Inquiry-based learning
-
Interest-led learning
-
Gameschooling
-
Socratic discussions
-
Hands-on projects
Our Methods
Founder - Danielle Dunn
I am a neurodivergent, homeschooling mom of two neurodivergent kids. I was inspired to start Diverge Learning by my years-long struggle to find in-person homeschooling activities that would work for my child. Everything we tried just wasn’t accepting or accommodating enough, which meant he did not feel safe enough to participate. After a few years of wishing the “right place” existed, I finally went ahead and made it myself.
I have a Bachelor of Arts in Education and years of experience in Autistic/ADHD/PDA advocacy. I’ve learned so much over the last ten years in an effort to be the kind of parent my kids need, and I love passing that knowledge on to others. In another life (i.e. before children), I was a musician and a recording engineer. I don’t get to use those skills too much anymore, but I do still love to be creative in other ways, especially for Halloween. In my downtime, I enjoy gaming with my family and being an emotional support human for our dog, Luna.