Aside from teachers, moms get the lion’s share of the credit for our children’s success in school, and deservedly so.

Most often they are the ones who lay down the law on homework, take the kids back-to-school shopping, and fret over not being able to find a package of thin-point erasable markers with two blue pens.

It’s a difficult, thankless job of budgeting, cajoling and teeth grinding.

But there’s enough work – and joy – left over for us dads. I learned that lesson last school year when my wife was out of town for work for several days and I juggled my schedule with our kids’ school and hockey practices.

I offer some helpful hints for dads on how to make the most of the new school year.

Lunch

Make – or help your kids make – their lunch. A few years ago I learned that our youngest wouldn’t eat lunch for a week because I didn’t cut the crust off his peanut butter and jelly sandwiches I had been making. I soon changed my ways and became an expert at decrusting bread with my trusty pizza cutter. But decrust the bread before spreading the peanut butter and jelly.

Homework

I get home from work hours after the kids get home from school, and usually after the kids have done their homework. But that doesn’t mean I can’t help, too. My job is class projects, which come in droves as the kids get older and semesters come to an end.

I have rules, however. 1) All work must be done before “The Sopranos” start on Sunday nights (they return next March). 2) I will paste, cut and even type a page or two, but I will not do the research. 3) Always take credit for A’s.

Shuttle service

I never miss a chance to drive my kids to school when they are toting a friend or two. It’s the best time to ask them whom your child likes. Plus, it embarrasses the heck out of your kid, and that’s what dads are for.

Home/work balance

This isn’t about balancing homework; this is about balancing responsibilities to home and work. Explain to your children what you do so they understand why it’s important when you have to work late.

But remember, kids have long memories that last well into adulthood. So take a day off and join them on a field trip.

Notes to teachers

Count on having to hastily scribble at least one note per year to a teacher explaining an early dismissal for a doctor’s appointment or a late morning arrival. Take heed: Spell check before handing it in – you could get graded.