Harry, 41, has spoken of the “purpose” that fatherhood gave him, but also recently opened up about the “disconnect” that came after Archie’s birth. Speaking at the men’s health charity Movember at the Western Bulldogs HQ in Melbourne earlier this week, Harry said: “Certainly, I felt a disconnection because my wife was the one creating life. And I was there to witness it.”
Global Family Expert and Childcare Specialist Jo Frost, who is widely known as Supernanny, has told the Daily Express that it is “refreshing” to hear Harry’s very honest comments about fatherhood.
She said: “Fathers do not need to stand back in those early months, they need to step in their role is vital, not just practically but emotionally.
“The guidance I give families is simple: show up, stay engaged, and please trust that connection is something you build over time.”
Speaking of Harry, she added: “I find Prince Harry’s honesty about his feelings refreshing and invites, as well as opens up, a conversation many fathers will recognise. We need our dads talking and sharing their experiences; this must be normalised.
“I want every parent to know that feeling disconnected at times does not define who you are as a parent.
“Staying disconnected does, so remember connection can always be built, and if you feel uncomfortable, reach out to your loved ones, talk to your GP and connect with other parents.”
As well as Archie, who will celebrate his seventh birthday next month, Harry is a proud father to four-year-old Princess Lilibet.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed Lilibet in 2021, just two years after welcoming Archie – and one year after their move to the US.