Understanding our experiences of fatherhood

Lutho’s story reminds us that fatherhood is not always soft, and love is not always easy to recognise. But even in the cracks, even in the hard edges, there is something to be learned. 

The premiere of Playing Dad, the seventh installment in its Fathers Matter film series, brought together cast and crew, research and development contributors, corporate leaders and media partners. The evening was a celebration and a moment to reflect on the role of fathers in children's lives.

Play is not soft work. It’s not a distraction from “real parenting”. It is parenting. When a child invites you into their world of play, they’re not asking for entertainment. They’re asking, “Will you take me seriously? Will you choose me?”

Parenting changes with every generation. What worked for one father might not work for another, and each dad brings his own unique touch to raising his kids.

Watching your child face disappointment – whether it is repeating a grade, not making a sports team, or being excluded from university due to finances – is one of the hardest things for a father. 

As we approach International Children's Day, it's a time to celebrate not just the joy and wonder that children bring into our lives, but also the invaluable wisdom they impart.