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"D" Is for Dad
14 Ways Fathers Can Help Their Kids Excel in School By Donna Smith
Nixon says that a father should schedule out school events just as he does projects at work. "And just as with work, a weekend sit down to discuss upcoming events is crucial for the father to remain a resource to his children," he says.
3. Make sure you meet your child's teacher and stay in touch even if things are going well. The teacher tends to call you more quickly to elicit support and help with your child if she feels you are involved.
4. Don't be the dad who shows up only when there is a problem. If you ignore their education until there is a problem, they may learn that poor academic performance is the only way to get your attention.
"Even when I can't be there, I make an effort to show my kids that their schooling is important," says Todd Franco, a resident physician at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pa., and a father of three. "As soon as I come through the door and give out hugs and kisses, I ask to see their folders from school."
5. Step foot in the school at least once a week. Take your child to school, eat lunch with her in the cafeteria, go on field trips, attend a sporting event and so forth. Show up unannounced from time to time. If you're a divorced dad, this is a great way to spend time with your children and to meet their friends.
"Because of my schedule, being at school on a regular, predictable basis is generally out of the question," Franco says. "When I am off, I make it a priority to walk my kids to or from school both if I have the entire day off."
Nixon agrees. "What is more reasonable is that they ensure that scheduled school events are more important than the next 'boys night out' and that a father schedules a reasonable number of visits during the course of the fall and spring semesters to non-verbally reinforce with their children that they are important to you," he says.