Getting dads involved in co-ops!

The norm for most homeschool co-ops is to have the moms participate, often to the exclusion of dads.  This may simply be due to logistics (dad's at work), but when there is a desire to include men, there is a way to make it happen!  With intention and purpose men can become a part of your child's co-op and having men on hand to teach, lead, and show by example is very beneficial to the life of a child.

One year we had a ten week co-op with only teen boys on current events, persuasive writing and public speaking.  We purposefully met at night so that dads could attend, and many of them were able to join us.

Our co-ops often have guest speakers and many times the dads are the guest speakers.  Several of our co-ops have been blessed to have Ryan Sprague volunteer his time to speak into the lives of our teens.  Ryan is an author, athlete, dad, pastor, speaker, and friend.  I interviewed Ryan on my Homeschooing Co-op Style show and we talked about co-ops, footballs, dads participating in co-ops and more!  You can hear this interview here!  (Click on the MP3 button on the page.  It is also available in iTunes.)

Some of my friends have started a co-op for teens that is being taught by retired men who are training the students in skills such as small engine repair, computer programming, home improvements, and more!

Think outside the box, and invite the dads to be a part of your co-op!