Americans will spend an estimated $22.4 billion this year on Father’s Day gifts for dad. But in a recent poll, almost one-third of the dads surveyed said they would prefer no gift at all other than to spend time with those they love.
That's according to the global public opinion research company YouGov. This sentiment was echoed by some of the new dads and grandfathers Newsday spoke with ahead of Father's Day. While these Long Islanders and their loved ones prepare to celebrate the holiday, they also reflected on the meaning of fatherhood and the intangible gifts they have received from the most important men in their life — and from their children.
Being a father means everything to Johnny Pierre, 28, of Hempstead. As a father of three, Pierre has learned to cherish his time nurturing his children: Lucius,1, Gabriel,3, and Marcellus,5. “Being a father is taking care of the little ones and enjoying life with them,” Pierre said.
On a recent shopping trip with his family at Roosevelt Field Mall, Pierre stressed that it is vital for parents to appreciate the time they have with their children. “Growing old and watching your kids grow is very important,” he said. “You don’t know how long you are going to be on Earth, so you have to take care of the kids more.
” For Father’s Day, Pierre said he is looking forward to going to a local park to play with his kids. Fairly new to the father role, Ryan Sperin, 39, of West Islip, says that being a dad to his 18-month ol.
