A few days ago, I received a question from a reader. She really feels that home schooling is the best option for her child, but her husband is against it. I hesitate to write this blog because I do really feel like husbands and wives need to be on the same page when it comes to the education of their children. However, this problem is not really uncommon among new homeschoolers. Many dads have to be convinced that home schooling is a great idea! So I offer these practical strategies as tools for discussion in your decision to educate your child.
A Trial Period
Despite the fact that I’m not a fan of short term home schooling, often times the proof is in the pudding. Seeing the results of home schooling is enough to convince many dads that home is a much better place for their child than is school. Don’t look for just academic achievement either. Many parents notice that the overall demeanor of their child changes for the better while being home schooled.
Talk to Other Homeschooling Dads
Getting involved in a support group where there are other active dads who are home schooling their children helps abate the fears of many hesitant dads. For many, home schooling their children is a paradigm shift and seeing that other families are doing it can often be what’s needed to make the leap towards that shift. It can also help to talk to other dads about nagging fears like giving up couple time, and socialization.
Compare Curriculums
Many dads can be persuaded that the education your child will receive at home is as good if not better than what they were getting in school, by looking at curriculum options. Homeschooling parents have so many more options that many dads are impressed with what can be covered. Also make sure to point out that curriculums can be tailored to the individual needs of that child.
Research, Research, Research
There is a lot of research out there demonstrating that homeschoolers do better in socialization, test scores and achievements than their publicly schooled peers. Tap into that research and present it! It was done for just such an occasion.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help get you and your spouse to agree on the best course of education for your child.