Parenting Matters Blog

What makes a man with nine children, a thriving business, and a deeply rooted connection to his community pause in the middle of a soccer tournament, pull out his phone, and begin writing a children’s book?

For Andrew Stillman, the answer is simple: fatherhood.

When one of his daughters wrapped her arms around him and said, “I love you so much,” he responded with something he’s told all his kids over the years—“You know what my favorite job in the whole wide world is? Being your dad.” That moment of connection sparked an idea that wouldn’t let go. Later that night, while brushing teeth and preparing for bed, he shared his new story with his wife, Mia. She read it, touched, and asked, “Where did you find this?” Andrew smiled and said, “I just wrote it.”

That story became My Favorite Job in the Whole Wide World, a heartwarming children’s book that reminds kids how deeply they’re loved.

We recently sat down with Andrew for a conversation about what fatherhood means to him, how he gives back to the community through his business—Stillman’s Tree Service—and how his family’s long-standing involvement with Parenting Matters, especially our Musical Motion program, has made an impact.

Andrew and Mia have been bringing their children to Parenting Matters for over 15 years. Their youngest, Veronica, is now three and adores Musical Motion. “Miss Elizabeth was built for this,” Andrew says, laughing. “She’s part of the family at this point.” But his connection to Parenting Matters isn’t just through his children. As a business owner, he’s quietly stepped in over the years to help us maintain our property—most recently trimming overgrown trees that had gotten a little too enthusiastic—completely free of charge.

“That’s how I give back,” he says. “Parenting Matters gives so much to the community, I’m just happy to help however I can.”

Recently, Andrew volunteered to read aloud his book at a Musical Motion class, bringing a room full of toddlers and their parents into the world he created—a world where kids are reminded that no matter what, nothing is more important than being their dad.

From astronauts to kings, from superheroes to pirates, each whimsical page ends with the same loving refrain: “I would rather be your dad.” It’s a simple message, but one that resonates deeply.

It’s also personal.

Andrew shares that his own father wasn’t present for much of his childhood. “He disappeared when I was in fifth grade,” he says. “So I’m determined to be there always, no matter what.” Through his book and his example, Andrew offers not just his own children but all children—and their families—a model of what it looks like when fathers show up, speak love, and stick around.

As an organization dedicated to strengthening families, we are honored to partner with dads like Andrew and with local businesses that understand the importance of investing in the next generation.

To every father, caregiver, and partner helping raise children with love and intention—we see you. Thank you for the vital role you play in shaping young lives and communities that thrive.

And to our partners: your support makes moments like these possible.