CYEP uses the 24/7^TM Dad curriculum created by the National Fatherhood Initiative. The 24/7^TM program focuses on the five characteristics that a father needs to be a great dad 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The program covers the universal aspects of fatherhood so that men of all cultures, races, religions and backgrounds can benefit from the program. When a father completes the program he becomes a "24/7" Dad who:

• Is aware of himself as a man and aware of the significant impact he has on his family. He is in touch with his moods and feelings/emotions, his capabilities, his strengths and his limitations.
• Is a man who takes care of himself. He gets annual physicals, eats the proper foods, exercises to stay in shape, has a strong spiritual connection with his community and chooses friends who reinforce his healthy choices.
• Is very aware of the significant role he has in the family. He is a positive role model. He capitalizes on his knowledge of the unique contributions he brings (e.g., skills) and that his wife/mother of his children brings to raising his children (i.e., the difference between fathering and mothering).
• Is a nurturing parent who clearly understands and accepts the importance his parenting skills have in developing the physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual and creative needs of his children.
• Works to build and maintain healthy and supportive relationships with his children, wife, family, friends and community.

12 week overview of the topics that will be discussed during the class:

Week:

1. Family of Origin
2. Masculinity
3. Understanding Yourself
4. Handling and Expressing Emotions
5. Spirituality
6. Physical and Mental Health
7. Fathering and Family Roles
8. Fathering and Culture
9. Discipline, Roles and Punishment
10. Expectations and Children's Development
11. Balancing work and Family
12. Getting & Staying involved with your Children