What has your child taught you?

For many fathers, the lessons they learn from their children change them forever. These lessons give them new perspective and teach them more about love, responsibility and gratitude. We spoke to three young fathers who have grown in unexpected ways because of their parenting journeys.

As we prepare to celebrate International Children's Day, let's honour the lessons our children teach us.

Matthew is rediscovering life's simple joys

For Matthew, becoming a father has been like seeing the world through fresh eyes. "Fatherhood is an adventure filled with unexpected joys and challenges," he shares. His daughter has taught him to appreciate life's simple pleasures. "I realised how much I'd been missing out on these small wonders," he reflects after a walk where they marvelled at a caterpillar. This newfound appreciation for simplicity has brought unexpected joy into his life.

Beyond appreciating the small things, Matthew's daughter has taught him about trust. "There's so much that could go wrong, but if you don't learn to let go, you'll go crazy," he says. Her presence has encouraged him to embrace life's unpredictability with grace, teaching him to trust both in himself and in the world around him.

Linde is embracing new responsibilities

For Linde, fatherhood has profoundly shifted his priorities and values. "It's been challenging but very much worth it," he acknowledges. His child has instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility. "My child is fully dependent on me," Linde says, and he feels the important weight of needing to provide a safe environment and quality education.

This responsibility has reshaped Linde's daily life, making him more selfless and attentive. "Being selfless makes me happy because their happiness is my reward," he adds. Fatherhood has also enriched his sense of gratitude. "These experiences have taught me to appreciate the present and cherish the time we have together."

Brandon's faith is inspiring him to be a good role model

Brandon's experience as a father is deeply intertwined with his faith and the example he sets within his family. With two children of different ages – a newborn and an older stepson – he has to navigate quite different parenting dynamics with his children. "All that he has is me, even spiritually," he reflects, recognising his role in providing spiritual guidance and prayer. His children have made him acutely aware of the behaviour he models. "Having kids has really made me conscious of what behaviour is acceptable," he admits, striving to set a positive example.

Brandon strongly believes that his interactions with his wife serve as a model for his children. "There's never a day that my kids will see me disrespect my wife," he says. He knows that his actions shape his children's perceptions of relationships in a country where gender-based violence is an epidemic. Through parenting, Brandon has learned the importance of respect, communication, and navigating life's seasons with resilience. Balancing the needs of a newborn and his stepson has taught him patience and adaptability, so that he can make sure each child feels valued and loved.

Lessons in love and growth

Matthew, Linde, and Brandon each show how their children have reshaped their perspectives. From finding joy in the mundane to embracing responsibility, patience and gratitude, these fathers have discovered new depths of love and personal growth through their parenting journeys.

Children are not just our students; they are our teachers. Fathers, take a moment today to reflect on what your child has taught you and how these lessons have enriched your life.