Dads Matter...A Lot!

Shawn Gardner
President & Founder
2Not1 Fatherhood & Families

Years ago when I was out in the community with my four daughters I was often asked, "are you babysitting?", "where’s mom" or something of that nature. I guess they thought there was no way I could actually just be doing what dads do. In tandem with that reoccurring scenario, I talked with another young father that prompted a workshop-type discussion in our community around fatherhood. It soon became evident that there were support services provided to moms that would have benefited this dad’s efforts to be a better father too.

These conversations led to a partnership with Neighborhood Place to provide a series of fatherhood workshops in our community. Dads learned parenting skills, the community benefited from the insight gained from the discussions, and I recognized my calling for founding an organization to advocate for fathers and to strengthen families - 2NOT1.

8 Tips to Help Your Entire Family Eat and Be Healthier in 2015. Really.

Healthy living is an essential part of achieving a successful life...for all of us. And getting your entire family to make better choices and eat healthier doesn't have to be difficult, time-consuming or expensive. Try these easy tips and see if 2015 can be your healthiest year yet!

• Limit fast food, processed snacks, soda, candy and other unhealthy food choices. Opt for a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low fat dairy foods.

5 Easy Ways To Get Your Child Excited About Reading

By Katy Miller

Creating a culture of literacy in your home may seem like a heavy venture. In reality, however, it’s very simple and doesn’t require a tremendous monetary investment. It only requires time, commitment and attention, all of which are free.

In our house, we believe that learning is not confined to a certain time of day or setting. It’s not about passing any kind of test or measuring our child against other children. It’s about being committed to forming a productive and happy adult who will serve the world in a positive, thoughtful and memorable way.