Diane Geerlinks

GEERLINKS EDUCATIONAL THERAPY

Diane Geerlinks is passionate about helping kids learn, developing their strengths and improving their weaknesses. She has worked in the field of education for the past 35 years, teaching children of all ages and abilities in group settings and one-on-one. As a homeschool mom for 23 years, she understands the challenges that face homeschool parents. In 2009, Diane trained as an NILD Educational Therapist and has since continued to pursue her passion for learning with particular focus on the neuroplasticity of the brain and how we can improve our capacity for learning at any age. She operates GeerLINKS Educational Therapy and is Marketing Director for NILD Canada.

2023 CONFERENCE SESSION

SESSION: How Do I Help My Child Get Things Done?

We all use self-regulation and executive function skills every day to learn, to work, and to manage daily life. Our kiddos do, too! Planning, organizing, goal setting, evaluating, prioritizing, and reflecting are all needed to get things done. These skills are not in-born, but rather, need to be explicitly taught and coached. In this workshop, Diane will discuss ideas of how to get our kids started on developing these skills – step by step, one day at a time. (Length: 38:33)

PAST CONFERENCE SESSIONS

CANHSCON2018

SESSION: LAZINESS, LATE BLOOMER, OR LEARNING DISABILITY?

You decided to homeschool your child. The curriculum is bought, the lessons are planned, the school room is ready, and you are filled with excitement. And then…. instead of peace and harmony, you feel like you’re in a battle with your child. Is he just being stubborn? Is this a battle of the wills? You’ve heard many people say, “Don’t worry, they’ll catch up”. But, you are the parent and you wonder…will this really change? In this workshop, Diane will help de-mystify these questions and share strategies to help launch your struggling learner on the road to success. There is HOPE!

GET A CANHSCON18 PASS

CANHSCON2020

SESSION: WHY HOMESCHOOLING A CHILD WITH UNIQUE NEEDS IS A GREAT CHOICE

Are you trying to homeschool a child that doesn’t fit the mold? Every child is unique, but some have needs that require more intervention. The labels range from Autism to Down's Syndrome, from ADHD to Vision Impairment to Auditory Processing Disorder. Is it really possible to teach your own child in all of these situations? In this workshop, we will discuss the pros and cons, hear each other’s real-life stories, share available resources and receive some much-needed encouragement for the journey!

GET A CANHSCON20 PASS

CANHSCON2022

SESSION: ADHD: FROM SYMPTOMS TO SOLUTIONS

Statistics today indicate that 5 -15% of school-aged children and even more adults are affected by ADHD. Is this really a growing phenomenon? In this workshop, we will discuss various ADHD symptoms that may impede academic performance or social well-being as well as strategies and therapeutic solutions to encourage these students on their life-long journey of learning.

GET A CANHSCON22 PASS

CANHSCON2020

SESSION: BETTER LATE THAN EARLY OR EARLY THAN LATE?

All children learn and grow at their pace...from rolling over as infants to crawling, to talking, to toilet training, to learning the alphabet. Homeschool parents are told over and over again ‘Don’t worry…they’ll catch on eventually’. Although this is somewhat reassuring for a homeschool mom who has tried everything to get their child to read, she wonders, "Is it fact? Do I dare wait?" In this workshop, Diane, veteran homeschool mom and trained educational therapist, will debunk some myths, discuss some red flags and offer some tips and encouragement for the journey.

GET A CANHSCON20 PASS

CANHSCON2022

SESSION: HOMESCHOOLING WITH AUTISM

Homeschooling your own children is a great choice. But what if you have a child with an autism diagnosis? Is homeschooling still an option?

As new information on autism unfolds and more resources become available, our kids are offered opportunities to reach their potential and beyond! In this workshop, Dr. Kimberly Maich, Psychologist and Autism Specialist, and Diane Geerlinks, Homeschool Mom and NILD Educational Therapist, will share clinical and practical strategies for success!

*Please note this session refers to ABA*

GET A CANHSCON22 PASS

CANHSCON2021

SESSION: DYSLEXIA DEMYSTIFIED

Latest research has revealed that dyslexia affects 1 in 5 students. It can be a hidden disability although some have referred to it as a gift. Do all kids learn how to read at the same rate? Why is it easy for some and harder for others? How do I know if my child has dyslexia? You’ve heard many people say, “Don’t worry, they’ll catch up”. In this workshop, Diane will help de-mystify these questions and encourage you on the journey!

GET A CANHSCON21 PASS