The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

our children were younger, for a time I committed to come home from work early to build a tree house with them. By the time we were finished, the tree house had four levels and was used daily; it became a key memory from that season of our children’s lives.

Dads who have the flexibility to go to work a bit later or come home a bit early can provide the energy that might be needed to push through the home stretch. It might even provide opportunity for Dad to do some of the formal teaching.

Another timely home-stretch, springtime thing to do is to plan and lead a weekend getaway. What if Dad planned a trip with fun and educational goals as the two primary purposes? I’m reluctant to suggest camping because I disdain it so much, but you might not. It is certainly a great way to enjoy each other and God’s creation while making memories and probably learning a thing or two.

Other weekend getaway ideas might
include trips to big cities, with the goal of
taking in the museums and other unique,
educational, and fun things cities have to
offer. Of course, if you live in or near a big
city, going into the country might be the
formula for refreshing and energizing the
household to finish the year strong.

Dads who have the
flexibility to go to work
a bit later or come home
a bit early can provide
the energy that might be
needed to push through
the home stretch.

time to ask questions of each child and
then leading them and joining them in
researching their options. Just like col-
lege decisions, career conversations are
not likely new to the relationship, but en-
gaging with each child at an intentional
and heightened level about each one’s
interests and giftedness is a great use of
time during this home stretch time of
year. Such discussions could easily lead
to planning a vacation that includes visits
to potential colleges.

Marlin is the husband of Laurie and father of four grown sons. He and his wife have been involved in many aspects of classical Christian education for more than twenty years. They own and operate Veritas Press, www.veritaspress.com, which provides curriculum for classical Christian education and offers online classes as well.