Educational Involvement from Fathers | Schools fall incredibly short of preparing kids for life after school

When starting to write on this topic. A quote from Jordan B. Peterson’s book 12 Rules for life immediately popped into my head "To stand up straight with your shoulders back is to accept the terrible responsibility of life, with eyes wide open" – The fact of the matter is that that life gives us an equal amount of good times and difficult times, and some people receive more of the former and the latter, and if you read the book (which I implore all to do) you will find the reasons why, and that is a story for another day. But this is where you can come in to better prepare your child for all aspects of life.

It has become clear to many, no matter what country you come from, that the education systems fails emphatically and falls incredibly short of preparing our children for the real world. From basics like filing your taxes, basic survival situations, investing, problem solving, and proper time management are just some of the points they lack in teaching our children. In some countries what is taught is down to who is governing the country, and in others schooling is about creating sheep that follow the crowd in thinking the only correct way to live your life is to get a 9 to 5 and work till you’re too old to fully enjoy your life and money earned. And in some it is unfortunately all about indoctrinating children to whoever is in power to force their ideologies onto the children they ‘teach’.

This is not to bring down schools or the teachers that teach our children. There are amazing teachers that educate our children in spite of the systems they are forced to teach. But simple basics in life is up to you as a father, and as parents regardless of all the above mentioned, to teach your children. You are their father, and you bare the sole responsibility to best prepare your children through all ages in all aspects of life.

Some of the points bellow you can start instilling in your children from a young age by engaging in activities that include these points, to when they get older and can be more accurately be communicated and exemplified to them. It is better to prepare your kids for the difficulties in life, than them needing to try and confront them as it happens. Because some unfortunately go down a rabbit hole from which they can never get out.

Put on your big boy super suit and put focus, time and energy into instilling these points into your child’s life.

Points to put some focus on

1. Financial Literacy

• Teach how to budget, save, and invest money.

• Explain the power of compound interest and the basics of loans and credit scores.

• Introduce them to the concept of delayed gratification when it comes to money.

• Encourage entrepreneurial thinking by involving them in small projects, like running a garage sale or starting a side hustle.

2. Practical Problem-Solving

• Involve them in real-world problem-solving like fixing things around the house or working on the car.

• Teach critical thinking by discussing everyday dilemmas and encouraging logical solutions.

• Show them how to weigh risks and make decisions with confidence.

3. Time Management and Discipline

• Teach the importance of routines, scheduling, and prioritizing tasks.

• Introduce them to tools like planners, calendars, or time-blocking methods.

• Demonstrate how consistency in habits leads to long-term success.

4. Physical Self-Reliance

• Teach basic survival skills, such as how to navigate with a map and compass, build a fire, or cook simple meals.

• Instruct on basic self-defense techniques and the importance of situational awareness.

• Encourage regular exercise and physical challenges to build resilience and confidence.

5. Emotional Intelligence and Toughness

• Teach how to identify, express, and manage emotions constructively.

• Share lessons on handling rejection, failure, and criticism with grace and perseverance.

• Encourage empathy by helping them understand different perspectives and how to resolve conflicts.

6. Leadership and Responsibility

• Assign age-appropriate responsibilities that hold them accountable, like managing chores or helping with family decisions.

• Involve them in group activities like sports or volunteering where they can practice teamwork and leadership.

• Model how to stand firm in values while remaining respectful to others.

7. Communication Skills

• Teach them how to speak confidently and respectfully in different scenarios (e.g., public speaking, job interviews, or debates).

• Emphasize the importance of listening actively and asking thoughtful questions.

• Show how to write persuasive emails, letters, or proposals for practical purposes.

8. Risk Assessment and Calculated Decisions

• Teach the importance of taking calculated risks in life and understanding consequences.

• Discuss real-life scenarios where decision-making is critical, such as when to take a stand or compromise.

• Show how to evaluate opportunities, weighing pros and cons effectively.

9. Understanding the Basics of Law and Rights

• Explain fundamental legal rights and responsibilities.

• Teach how to interact respectfully with authority figures, like police officers or employers.

• Discuss contracts, agreements, and the importance of reading fine print.

10. Building and Maintaining Relationships

• Teach respect, loyalty, and effective communication in friendships, partnerships, and professional relationships.

• Model integrity by showing how to admit mistakes and apologize sincerely.

• Discuss the importance of choosing friends and partners who align with their values.

11. Cultural and Practical Literacy

• Introduce them to basic DIY skills like using tools, changing a tire, or assembling furniture.

• Teach the significance of cultural history and traditions to foster a sense of identity.

• Encourage curiosity about other cultures and perspectives through travel, books, or documentaries.

12. The Importance of Reading Outside of School

• Encourage reading books that focus on personal development, biographies, history, or specialized skills.

• Explain how books can provide knowledge that isn’t taught in school, such as entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, or philosophy.

• Use reading as a tool to expand vocabulary, develop critical thinking, and expose them to new ideas and perspectives.

• Suggest specific books that have influenced you and discuss the lessons they offer.

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