Getting Dad on board for homeschooling is critical to succeed. A house united, with a common goal of educating children in the Faith and academics, is essential for starting and maintaining.
Mary Ellen and Ginny have a tried-and-true plan for you to win Dad's approval and cooperation. Their step-by-step approach is simple and manageable and, as they always do, presented to you with humor, good cheer, and an eye on the practical. Good listening!
Dealing with Hesitant Dads
We NEED dads to be on board.
● Even if he never teaches a single spelling word:
– The kids know that he is watching.
– Kids must learn to listen.
– His support helps train them in the virtue of Obedience
● When kids really get out of line, dads make all the difference.
– He can talk to them before he goes to work.
– Or call home at lunch.
– And deal with Junior when he gets home.
● He can run interference with other relatives. His support, "I am behind home education 100%.", can be a considerable factor for mom.
Dads are often hesitant to start homeschooling.
● It seems weird to them.
– They want their kids to be successful.
– No one in the office does it.
– They question if the kids will fit into the culture to be successful.
– Many say, "Hey, I went to public school and turned out okay."
● The best way to convince Dad is to start in K.
– "Just give me one year, and then we'll reevaluate."
– Dad usually doesn't panic over K.
– If he sees Junior is doing well, get him to commit to another year.
● Get together socially with homeschooling families.
– He can see that kids are well-adjusted and well-educated.
– Search out homeschooling families in your or surrounding parishes.
– Seton families have a "Connect with Seton Families" program to meet families.
Let him know how public schools are doing. Give him the data.
Dads compete in the business world and want their kids to be able to compete too.
● Latest NAEP tests - The Nation's Report Card (link below)
In Fourth Grade - Math scores declined in 41 states. Just 36 percent of fourth graders were proficient in math, down from 41 percent. Reading proficiency at 33%
In Eighth Grade - Math scores fell in nearly every state. A meager 26 percent of eighth graders were proficient, down from 34 percent in 2019. Reading proficiency at 33%
● US schools routinely graduate functionally illiterate adults.
● They are not proud to be American or willing to serve in the military.
Losing mom's income.
● Often, mom has to cut back on hours or even quit to homeschool. In this economy, everyone is worried about paying the bills.
● Carefully figure out what homeschooling would save you:
1. Childcare costs
2. Commuting costs
3. Wardrobe costs, both for mom at work and kids in school
4. Tuition for Catholic/private schools
5. The inevitable takeout when mom can't get dinner going.
● You might find that losing mom's income will not be as tough an attack on your purse as you anticipated
How can Mom teach advanced math, science, and foreign languages? Be ready to address objections. Can a non-native speaker teach phonics?
● Taped programs
● Online programs
● Co-ops or pod schools.
Resource:
The Nation's Report Card (National Assessment of Educational Progress) https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/
