June 19, 2024 – Honoring Homeschooling Fathers

Deborah Wuehler
More Important Than We Think

Todd Wilson
Cool Hand . . . Dad

Alexandria Letkeman
Hey, Homeschool Dad: You’re Doing Great!

Beth Mora
Homeschool Dads: Celebrate His Quiet Strength

Mercy Every Minute

Deborah Wuehler, TOS Senior Editor

More Important Than We Think

Dads are more important than we think. Although often homeschooling is something moms tend to be in control of because we are with the children more and know more about their academic needs, emotional needs, and spiritual needs—we still need dad’s support. 

However, there are times we can be prone to take complete control leaving no room for Dad’s opinions or help. We often think that we are capable and don’t need a leader. That thinking goes back to Eve. As children of God, we should be abiding by a new law, the law of mutual loving submission supporting each other. Mom also needs to respect her leader and take seriously her Biblical role as helper. 

Most think of submission as an ugly word because our society has perverted its meaning. But in the marvelous plan of God, we can actually see the imprint of His very image on this submissive relationship.

Look at how the Holy Spirit always points to Jesus Christ. Then see how Jesus always pointed to His Father and submitted to His will. Then see the great love relationship the Father had with His Son and in perfect communion with the Spirit. He desires the same unity, submission, communion, and fellowship for us in all of our relationships.

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17: 2).

In the same way, children respectfully submit to their parents, and the parents lead the way in loving God and loving others, and the whole family experiences unity, fellowship, and communion. When these things are in proper working order, we can see the imprint of God’s very nature on the family unit. 

Anytime we think we can be the lone ranger, whether in our homeschooling, or our marriages, or any other area we want to control, we find that the direction and wisdom we crave is missing. Or maybe we tend to belittle any help we receive . . . until it becomes nonexistent. I have had to fall on my face before God and ask Him to forgive my controlling, critical spirit many times over the years, and prayerfully place myself back under God’s loving control. 

Dads are hugely important as they give wisdom, clarity, and direction. Let’s ask God to show us how we can support that homeschool dad as they support us in keeping our children Home. Where They Belong.

~Deborah
dwuehler@theoldschoolhouse.com

Don’t forget to tune into the podcast that talks about this topic! www.HomeschoolShow.com

 Homeschool with a Friend!  When you homeschool with Classical Conversations, you become part of a community of local families. Find your local community at classicalconversations.com/tos.

Todd Wilson

Familyman Ministries

Cool Hand . . . Dad

As I talk to dads about their teenagers who are giving them fits, their wives, who don’t seem to think like them, and the deceptively deadly pull of success that beckons to them every day, I see the tiredness in their eyes and hear the emotion in their voices.

I listen to them talk and nod my head in understanding until they finish. Then, in a gentle but firm voice, I say, “Man, I know exactly how you feel, but . . . you ‘da dad. You may feel like giving up, but your family is counting on you. You can’t give up on them. Get back in there, because, although they may say harsh things . . . they still need you.”

They sigh, stiffen their chin in determination, and nod in agreement. “You’re right, Todd,” they say. “Thanks for the reminder.”

Over and over I watch men walk away, determined to give it another shot.

I can’t help but think of that old Paul Newman movie, Cool Hand Luke. 

Cocky Paul Newman arrives at the prison camp and is challenged by the biggest guy (probably named Moose, Big Al, or something like that) to a fistfight. Everyone knows Paul will be knocked out cold in the first round, but to the surprise of everyone, he just won’t go down.

He smiles, gets pounded to the ground, and then staggers up to get knocked down again. Eventually, even the big guy feels sorry for him and begs him to stay down . . . but he won’t. 

Mom, that’s your man. He gets pummeled, whomped on, yelled at, and spit on, but . . . he’s just too committed (or too stupid) to give up. He loves you, your family, and his role as dad (even though sometimes he doesn’t act like it). So . . . give him some extra grace today, smile at him, and remind him again that you’d choose him in a heartbeat.

Be Real,
Todd

PS – Looking for a great Father’s Day gift for your man? Get the Glad to Be a Dad shirt and window decal deal. The shirt is super soft and destined to be his go-to shirt.

About the author

Todd Wilson is a husband, dad, grandpa, writer, homeschool conference speaker, and former pastor. Todd’s humor and down to earth realness have made him a favorite speaker all across the country and a guest on Focus on the Family. As founder of The Familyman and The Smiling Homeschooler, his passion and mission are to remind moms and dads of what’s most important through weekly emails, podcasts, seminars, and books that encourage parents. Todd, and his wife Debbie, homeschool four of their eight children (the other four are homeschool graduates) in northern Indiana and travel America in the Familyman Mobile. You can read more at www.familymanweb.com

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Alexandria Letkeman

Hey, Homeschool Dad: You’re Doing Great!

Dear Homeschool Dad,

This letter is for you—a celebration of the amazing job you’re doing in your children’s lives and education. In a role that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, know that your efforts are seen and appreciated. 

You Are Making a Difference

Every day you choose to shape the education and development of your children. Whether you’re the primary educator or a supportive partner, your involvement forms the cornerstone of your child’s learning experience. Your unique perspective adds value, helping to instill diverse skills and insights in your kids. Remember, the time and energy you invest today crafts the memories and capabilities of tomorrow’s leaders. That’s exciting stuff!

You Are More Capable Than You Think

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or doubt your abilities at times. It’s important to remember that perfection isn’t the goal—presence is. Your patience, willingness to learn, and dedication are what truly matter. You’re not just teaching academics; you’re teaching resiliency and grace to an eager audience.

Lean on Your Community

You’re not alone on this journey. As homeschooling grows, there are several dads out there who can support you and share with you, and those who need support from you. Discussing strategies, venting about struggles, or sharing experiences can be so encouraging. 

Celebrate Every Success

No victory is too small to celebrate! Whether it’s a breakthrough in a tough subject or a smooth-running school day, take time to enjoy these triumphs. Each one is a testament to your hard work and love.

So, Hey, Homeschool Dad, keep your head high. You are doing an extraordinary job. Your role is crucial, your impact profound, and your efforts are what make homeschooling so special. Here’s to you—the hero behind the curtains of education at home. Keep up the great work, and remember, you are truly appreciated.

To my dad in particular, thank you for supporting our family so we could experience the gift and safety of homeschooling. 

About the author

Alexandria Letkeman began homeschooling with her family in middle school and has recently graduated with honors in 2020. Together with her husband, she has developed a passion for financial literacy, classical writing, and the freedom that homeschooling provides. In pursuit of those passions, she and her husband aim to continue the legacy of The HomeScholar and continue helping homeschool parents homeschool with confidence. One day, Alex plans to start a homesteading farm in Texas featuring mini cows.

Pillar of Hope

Beth Mora

Homeschool Dads: Celebrate His Quiet Strength

When I talk to most homeschool dads, including my husband, they sheepishly say, “Oh, my wife does the homeschooling; I just support her.” I usually jump in with a quick retort of how vital their strength is to the success of their homeschooled children and their wife’s sanity. I’ll admit my words often fail. Frequently, homeschool dads feel unimportant to the equation of homeschool success, but in fact, they are the force behind the scenes. So, let’s tell the world and celebrate the quiet strength of homeschool dads!

Celebrate His Courage: No one begins or continues homeschooling without facing and conquering fears. He is brave. 

Celebrate His Fortitude: He has the strength to trust your curriculum choices, work hard to provide, and understand that the end goals outweigh the temporary. 

Celebrate His Stability: He is the anchor in your homeschooling journey. He navigates the balance between rest and hard work and upholds and implements his family’s divine priorities.

Celebrate His Toughness: On the days when the thought of giving up looms large, he stands strong. He perseveres and paints a vivid picture of why you decided to homeschool. 

There’s no time to waste! Let’s celebrate the men of the movement. Their quiet strength keeps us all moving forward to fulfill God’s calling! 

About the author

Beth Mora is a staff writer for The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC and lesson designer for www.Schoolhouseteachers.com. She is the creator/teacher-on-camera for Here to Help Learning’s Homeschool Writing Program Grades 1-6, and a homeschool conference and women’s events speaker. Meet up with Beth at Home To Home, one of her favorite places to encourage. Everything she does, whether laughable or heart-gripping, is done to honor her Lord and Savior, Jesus. God’s grace is the salve that has healed her own life and is what she offers liberally to others.

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