Praises and Cheers for Father’s Cafe!
As a single father who unexpectedly found himself taking care of a daughter full time for extended periods of time, I value services like the Father’s Cafe under the auspices of Izzi Early Education. My wonderful daughter, Esse, is a three year old sweetheart who is on the Autism spectrum.
My daughter is doing well, and I want to help make sure she is getting everything that she needs to reach, and exceed, her full potential. I believe this is only possible only with the help of people who are committed to that goal. The people I have met at Izzi have shown themselves to be deeply committed and compassionate care providers. Although Esse is still non-verbal, it’s clear that she appreciates the care she receives there with the way she smiles when she arrives. But it doesn’t stop there, they have also warmly encouraged me to be involved in their community.
I’ve noticed that the services geared for fathers is less robust than for mothers. By the numbers, this makes sense. However, in the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to meet other single fathers, who like me, have committed themselves to be more involved fathers than what they experienced growing up. It will take time, but it appears that there’s a shift and perhaps a redefinition for some of what it means to be a father. I’m not sure how I rate, but I can say my whole heart is in this and I’m grateful for all of the support I get along the way from Izzi and the Father's Cafe.
- Hunter Whitney
Being able to be part of the father's cafe has been an amazing experience, not all schools offer this for parents (fathers specifically). Although I am not a father, I get involved as my husband is often working and can not attend all the time. Therefore, I attend and then share with my husband what happened in the Cafe. Being able to attend the cafes not only does it show our children that their education is important but that we as parents are interested in being involved in supporting their education and being in contact with. Important topics are openly talked about at the cafes and fathers relate to each other. Parents feel supported, I personally really enjoy attending when possible.
- Tania S. Rodriguez
