Homeschool Dad:

Part II

The homeschool Dad is absolutely indespensable.

Although it is Mom who usually teaches the child day in and day out, never doubt that Dad has an irreplaceable role.

When polled as to what homeschooling Moms want from their husbands, women responded with the following:

Understanding, Help with Discipline, and Motivating the Child.

Dr. Mark Lowery, professor at the University of Dallas and a homeschooling father, writes, "In a word, a crucial contribution to the homeschool on the part of the father is his attitude toward his wife. Needless to say, children pick up very quickly on the quality of relationship between their two parents and are profoundly influenced by it."

Father needs to understand that the Mother works hard, too, in a high energy and time-consuming situation so she may not have time to thoroughly clean the house or make gourmet dinners. She is busy with the more important tasks of teaching Truth, developing character and instilling lasting values in the child. This investment lasts through eternity.

Let everyone (including relatives) know that you appreciate her efforts and that homeschooling is worth the commitment. A compliment is also most welcome!

Because correction must be immediate, Mom does most of the daily keeping of order. But it is essential that the child/teen knows that Dad supports her wholeheartedly. Nothing solves a discipline problem faster than Dad stepping in.

You may need to have a heart-to-heart talk with the offender. Before the school day begins remind the child/teen that he must obey his Mother and that you (Dad) will be checking up on this. Then, call home several times during the day to ask the youngster about his school work and behavior. As soon as you arrive home, it's time for another consult. This usually resolves the problem rather swiftly.

The child/teen knows Dad is serious about obedience to the Mother.

Dr. Lowery has devised a very effective system of discipline which he calls the "method of pre-emption." "...develop very concrete and clearly written out sets of standards for various situations." Go over them ahead of time. Then let the child/teen know precisely the consequences of breaking the standards. For example, when dining out, guidelines might include sit still from the time of arrival until departure, talk quietly, keep elbows off the table, properly use fork and knife when eating, chew with mouth closed.

Today behavior expectations for everyone are appalling low. So it is especially important that the parent raise the bar and set the example. A youngster quietly observes whatever Dad does and almost automatically follows in his footsteps. A child is capable of being well-mannered, responsible, and doing his best, but he needs the model of his father. He craves admiration and encouragement.

Look over his school work and sincerely offer comments and suggestions. Praise his accomplishments; minimize the failures. Additionally, it is crucial that the child/teen sees you worship and pray and behave honorably no matter what the circumstance. Always urge the child/teen to do his best, to use his talents to the fullest. A quiet word or look from you directs the child/teen most a most amazing way.

Both Mom and the child/teen look to the homeschool Dad for support, order, and leadership. Father's contributions are vital to success. He is the rock, the foundation, on which the homeschool is built.

Homeschool Dad: Part I

Discipline

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