The cards have been opened, the new ties hung in the closet, the new gadgets are in use. But before we completely pack away another Father’s Day, we want to recognize the winner of our Proud to be a Homeschool Dad contest! Steve wins a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

Steve Harris had this to say:

This was my first year to be a homeschool dad. Due to high stakes testing and a drill-and-skill curriculum, I knew that I could teach my 8 year old the relevant content in an authentic manner where she would thrive and love learning again. After scouring the internet, blog postings and school websites, I found the content areas that she needed to know for 3rd grade and went to work. I used my everyday experiences to teach the main concepts. For landforms, we looked at pictures from our summer trip to Colorado and took neighborhood walks around our South Texas home. For measurement, we cooked dinner together, making sure to follow all the directions. While I worked in the garage, she helped me by locating a Phillips screwdriver or 3 1/16” socket all the while explaining the various sizes, why they fit and what they do. Not only does being a homeschool dad allow me to work closely with my daughter on a daily basis, it also allows me to see the “Aha!” moments of her learning. She asks questions. She wonders what things are and is not afraid to pick it up or figure it out. By working with her to match her learning style, I am able to help her grow beyond her years – not just in curriculum, but life, social skills and characterization. I have also learned that I have grown from this experience and am learning new things along with her. Together we are making learning powerful and together we have overcome the 3rd grade.

Thanks for sharing, Steve! And hats off to all dads out there for the difference you are making in the lives of your children each and every day!