Homeschooling to Build Character

Book Review for Mothers Who Are Raising Sons

My husband and I homeschool for a number of reasons; however, one of the biggest is our desire to teach character, and influence the values and morals of our children.

I want to share three "must-read" books for all homeschool moms who are raising sons. The name of the first book is That's My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys to Become Men of Character by Rick Johnson.

This book helps mothers realize how to train boys to become responsible men who will lead with courage and integrity. Rick Johnson speaks very frankly–especially to mothers about their role in their sons' lives. Johnson realizes that many mothers are raising sons single-handedly, in the absence of the father. Unfortunately, Johnson says, many fathers are either absent physically or mentally from the home. Johnson addresses the need for positive male role models for our sons today - because many do not have this within the home. The author provides practical insights and strategies for teaching integrity, perseverance, courage, loyalty, manners, and respect.

The author's premise is that it's easier to raise a boy, than to change a man's character once he's older. Johnson says he senses a desperation in many men today and questions what men are passing on to their sons. I encourage all moms—but especially moms who are bearing the load with their sons—to read this book. The author describes pitfalls along the way, and how to seek situations where your sons can interact with positive male role models.

Two additional books on character-building (for young men) that I highly recommend are: Boyhood & Beyond, and Created for Work: Practical Insights for Young Men, both written by Bob Schultz. These 2 books are excellent for mothers to read out-loud and share with their sons. I am currently reading these books out-loud to my 12 year old son and my 7 year old son. Schultz includes questions at the end of each chapter, and these books have really spoken to both of my boys.

In Boyhood and Beyond, the author addresses authority and good attitudes, forgiveness, industry vs. sloth, leadership, temptations, jealousy, and how to overcome fear. The author is very transparent in describing difficulties that he has struggled with—yet despite this, he still manages to writes on a boy's level, and maintain interest. Boyhood & Beyond is an excellent book for mothers and sons to connect with. It is told in stories, with humor and a good dose of practical humility. The stories teach timeless principles and morals, and Schultz has a real personal touch.

Created for Work, is the sequel to Boyhood & Beyond, and discusses how responsibility and a strong work ethic develop confidence, initiative, continual learning, and appreciation for what you have. Schultz believes that America–as a society–has shied away from work, which has created a lazy, self-serving, and self-gratifying attitude. He addresses the importance of how boys spend their time, and argues that habits set in childhood will set a precedent for the future.

These 3 books go hand-in-hand—speaking, helping and enabling moms to raise sons with strong character and good leadership skills.

I hope you enjoy these books as much as I have.