Share

'It changes everything': Darren Simpson on fatherhood and why dads get socks for Father's Day

accreditation
"Appreciate every single moment." (Darren Simpson/Instagram)
"Appreciate every single moment." (Darren Simpson/Instagram)

"They bake the cake from start to finish. All we do is add a little vanilla essence to the mixture."  

This was a dad joke Kfm DJ Darren "Whackhead" Simpson used to explain why moms get jewellery on their day and dads get socks.  

"You can't possibly expect the same 'party'." 

The funnyman has two sons, Nate and Cruz, with his wife Samantha, and tells Parent24 that while becoming a dad may not be as physical for men it's still a life-changing experience - one that "hits you like a ton of bricks."

"Being a father and knowing that you are now responsible for this little human being changes everything," he says. "You work harder, you become less reckless. I guess, for want of a better term, you grow up!" 

But hopefully not too much because, he says, his sons have picked up a thing or two from their jokester dad. 

 

According to Darren, his boys prank their mom "all the time in their own little way". But as far as possible future careers go, he's not so sure if they're as keen on following in his footsteps.  

"At the moment, one wants to be a Navy SEAL and the other wants to be a chef." 

So, what's it like hosting a national radio show while home during the lockdown with two young kids?  

"It's not easy at all," he says adding that "the toughest part is keeping [the boys] entertained and stimulated." 

Still, Darren says he counts himself lucky to be able to work from home via his "full-on radio studio" and makes it all work by using a schedule and removing distractions. 

"You have to set rules and make definite times… Children can be very demanding of your time and undivided attention, and it's extremely important that you give it to them", he says, adding that he's big on leaving his phone alone during quality time with his kids. 

"You can't think you are giving your children attention when you are with them, but your face and thoughts are deep into your smartphone."  

Another bit of Whackhead dad advice is: "Appreciate every single moment." 

"You hear this all the time, and it sounds so clichéd, but it is absolutely true... They do grow up so quick, and you always seem to miss the stage they were at just before." 

His upcoming Father's Day will be spent "at home, obviously" and who knows, if the Simpson boys have their way, the day might include an epic prank, one that involves socks, obviously. 

Chat back:

Share your story with Parent24. Anonymous contributions are welcome.

Email: Share your story with us via email at chatback @ parent24.com

Sign up for Parent24's newsletters.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE