“Becoming a father at the age when most people become grandfathers… it’s a unique experience,” says Gary, who became a father again at 58 after first becoming a dad at 32 in 1995. “Old memories have come rushing back—sleepless nights, diaper changing techniques, and a renewed perspective on life. But this time, the feeling is much deeper. I am at the end of the life cycle, while my son is at the beginning. I have limited time with him, so every moment is precious.”
In recent years, the trend of fatherhood at an older age has been on the rise. Even fathers in their 60s and 70s are proving that age doesn’t diminish their energy. With years of experience and stability, they are offering better upbringing to their children and cherishing every moment spent together. Here are some fathers’ personal experiences:
“I Give Full Time, Regret Not Being Able to Do So Earlier”
Christopher (70), who has a one-year-old son, Seamus, shares,
“Seamus is full of life, and he has changed my outlook on life. I want to spend as much time with him as possible because I never gave time to my four older daughters.
I’m now realizing how challenging it is to raise a child. I often ask my eldest daughter, who recently became a mother, for tips. She has solutions I never thought of. Now, baby products like car seats and strollers are designed to make things easier.”
“I Want to Give Him All the Happiness So He Can Proudly Say ‘Thank You, Dad’”
Gary Jenkins (66), who spends time with his 8-year-old son Ben, says,
“I give him all the time he needs. I homeschooled him for five months and really enjoyed that experience. I’m amazed to see him talk to others and develop interests, like his love for electronics and maths.
Recently, we built an electronic kit together. Ben is from my second marriage, and after a divorce, I felt lonely. Having a son now feels like a miracle. Although I once complained about lack of sleep, I no longer mind. This is a joyful experience. I want to teach him important lessons and show him love. I want to give him enough happiness so that, even when I’m no longer around, he can proudly say ‘Thank you, Dad.’”
“I’m Passing on My Experience, So He Won’t Be Deterred by Life’s Challenges”
Paul (71) talks about the simple, precious moments he shares with his son.
“I stand by the window, watching him look outside, dropping him off at school, waiting for him outside, and feeding him myself… these small moments, I missed with my older children.
Now, I’m cherishing them. Despite societal prejudices about fatherhood at my age, I do what’s right for my son. I have over four decades of parenting experience, and I want to prepare him emotionally and academically for the challenges ahead. I’m passing on my legacy of experience so that future challenges don’t overwhelm him.”
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“I’ve Learned the Importance of Gentle Parenting”
Joshua (66) recalls the days when he was highly ambitious, working long hours before his youngest son was born.
“When I first had children with my first wife, I was always busy with work and never involved much in their lives. Now, with my second wife, I’m fully engaged with my youngest son.
I realize now that I never asked my daughters about their feelings or attended their school events. I won’t let my son feel the same way. After being stern with my older children, I now believe in ‘gentle parenting,’ which my wife introduced me to. I’ve even apologized to my older children for being strict with them.”
These fathers, although later in life, continue to find joy in their children and are committed to creating meaningful memories and imparting valuable lessons for a better future.
