Michael Jackson, one of the greatest artists the world has ever known, achieved immense fame and success. His career soared to unimaginable heights, yet despite his eccentricities, he managed to balance his demanding profession with the responsibility of raising his three children—Prince Michael, Paris, and Blanket. While he kept a relatively secretive lifestyle, largely due to the intense media scrutiny he faced, Michael’s devotion to his children was clear. His approach to fatherhood, although unconventional, aimed at providing a level of protection and normalcy within the surreal world they lived in.

Living at the iconic Neverland Ranch, Michael’s children were raised in a world unlike any other, isolated from the prying eyes of the media. His rules for them were rooted in his desire to shelter them from the pressures of fame while ensuring they grew up with strong values. One of the first notable rules was that they would conceal their faces in public, often wearing masks or scarves to avoid attention. While this may have been strange to the children at first, they eventually understood that their father’s actions were motivated by a deep desire to protect them from the constant spotlight.

In addition to hiding their faces, Michael was very specific about what his children could eat. He enforced strict dietary rules, which meant no candy, excessive sugar, or unhealthy foods. Their meals consisted of wholesome options like seafood, fruits, and vegetables, although Michael himself was a vegetarian who avoided certain foods, including chocolate. The goal was to maintain a healthy lifestyle, free from the temptations that could be found in the world outside their sheltered compound.

Another rule Michael instilled in his children was a restriction on mirrors. He discouraged them from spending too much time in front of them, a reflection of his own complex relationship with his appearance. Despite his own obsession with his looks, he wanted his kids to be free from vanity and superficial concerns.

In terms of their education, Michael Jackson chose to homeschool his children, believing that sending them to regular schools would expose them to unnecessary media attention. For years, the children received their schooling at Neverland, with their father actively participating in their learning experiences. Only later did they attend public schools when under the care of their grandmother.

Michael’s Neverland Ranch, a massive estate designed to resemble a theme park, was a place where his children spent most of their time. The ranch boasted everything from a petting zoo and an arcade to roller coasters and bumper cars. However, these attractions were not for everyday use. They were reserved for special occasions like birthdays, teaching the children the value of delayed gratification.

While Michael was fiercely protective of his children, he also encouraged them to explore their own identities and make their own life choices. He told Paris, in particular, that she could be bigger than him if she desired, but emphasized that her happiness and authenticity were far more important than living up to his legendary status. Paris, now a budding star in her own right, has taken her father’s advice to heart, pursuing a career in acting and music.

Michael also encouraged his children to care deeply for animals, a passion he shared. His Neverland Ranch was home to many animals, including exotic species like giraffes and tigers. He taught his children to respect and love animals, a lesson Paris continues to uphold as she is an avid animal lover today.

Despite his fame, Michael Jackson was a man of deep convictions when it came to his personal beliefs. He believed in peace, justice, and the importance of using his platform for positive change. Through his music and activism, he sought to address issues like race relations, hunger, and the importance of unity. He even launched the famous charity song “We Are the World” in 1985, mobilizing artists to raise awareness about the Ethiopian famine.

Jackson’s children have also followed in his footsteps when it comes to speaking out against social issues. Paris Jackson, in particular, has been vocal about her support for social justice causes, including protesting against white supremacy and raising awareness about environmental issues and Native American rights.

In the end, Michael Jackson’s parenting was a blend of protection, discipline, love, and encouragement for independence. His rules, though peculiar at times, were driven by his desire to shield his children from the challenges of the world while also preparing them to make their own mark on the world. Today, Paris, Prince, and Blanket Jackson carry forward his legacy, each forging their own paths while holding onto the values their father instilled in them.