1)Rise of the Guardians – Film by Dreamworks and William Joyce
This movie is where the entire “Up, Not Out” journey began for Andrew. Join the Guardians of Childhood in their quest to protect and nurture hope, wonder, dreams, and fun.
2) Hook – Film by Steven Spielberg
This movie is one of the most profound commentaries on the failure of American fatherhood and masculinity. One of the best movies Robin Williams ever starred in and that is saying a lot!
3) Mary Poppins – Film by Disney and Robert Stevenson
Andrew’s favorite movie of all time, Mary Poppins has a profound way of reminding us, along with the Banks family, what is most important in life. Get ready to fly more kites!
4) Mary Poppins Returns – Film by Disney and Rob Marshall
I was skeptical if it would be possible to do another Mary Poppins well, but they delivered. The most recent film on this list, it is a genuine treat, and more of the same playful, inspiring Mary Poppins magic.
5) Christopher Robin – Film by Disney and Marc Forster
Nothing is more loveable than Winnie the Pooh and when he is attempting to help his old friend, Christopher Robin reclaim his childhood, he is also quite profound.
6) Won’t You Be My Neighbor? – Documentary by Morgan Neville
A recent documentary about Fred Rogers, better known as Mr. Rogers. A man who during his lifetime was a constant champion and defender of children, this film will inspire you to follow in his footsteps. Check out “The Good Neighbor” by Maxwell King for a good book on the same subject.
7) Wright Brothers – Book by David McCullough
David McCullough may be the best biographer of his generation, and his book on the Wright Brothers provides a beautiful glimpse into the lives of two men who grew up to be extremely responsible, mature men without growing out of their childhood.
8) Da Vinci – Book by Walter Isaacson
Leonardo Da Vinci is one of the greatest examples in history of what can happen when a man grows up without losing his childhood wonder and playfulness. As a man he had his faults, but as an example of curiosity grown up, we will find no better. Isaacson handles him superbly.
9) Leadership Education: The Phases of Learning – Book by Oliver Demille
Oliver Demille has a few worthwhile books on education and what he calls a “Thomas Jefferson Education.” This book on the “phases of learning” is extremely practical and a great resource for anyone wanting to guide children to love learning and possess vision to influence their world. The Wiens family has implemented many ideas from this book.
10) Loving our Kids on Purpose – Book by Danny Silk
Danny Silk’s parenting book completely shifted our paradigms on parenting and discipline when we first read it over five years ago. It will help you focus all your energies into the connection you have with your children and the capacity your children have to govern themselves.
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