While Michael Jackson's childhood was spent in the spotlight, he was determined his children's early days would not be the same, with Prince, Paris and Blanket hidden for the most part behind masks and blankets. "He wanted them to live a free life," says singer Akon.

WHO magazine's exclusive family portraits of Jackson and his family, taken in 2001, reveal a vastly different scenario to the public images seen until now. They show a hands-on dad, who cooked his brood organic meals (including breakfast porridge), threw birthday parties, took them to Disney World and showered them with toys and private movie screenings.

He also insisted they make their own beds and practise good manners. After a 2007 party, Jackson "made sure when they left, all the children said goodbye to everyone," says a music producer.

Jackson strived to give his kids the private and idyllic childhood he never had. He is said to have been writing a new ballad, "River Ripple," with the trio's help after a day spent playing games, and planned to perform it with an African choir at his final London show.

"Michael always wanted his children to be passionate about music and dance," an insider told UK newspaper The Sun. "But he wanted them to love music for its own pleasure, not feel forced into performing like he felt he was."

There are claims he protected the kids from any potential bankruptcy with a contingency plan: having up to 200 unpublished songs that could be worth $122 million, money that can't be touched by his creditors.

But even with money, his death means they'll endure something he never had to: the loss of a parent. "All they had was their dad," says singer and Jackson friend Akon. "For them to wake up and he is not there? Got to be the scariest feeling in the world."

For the full story on Michael Jackson's kids, plus dozens of photos and portraits of the King of Pop with his family that have never been seen before, pick up a copy of this week's WHO magazine, on sale Friday July 3. This 45-page tribute issue features a flip cover and a life-in-pictures farewell that celebrates a true music legend and show-business great.
- Despite claims his health was at an all-time low, WHO can reveal his final rehearsal for his upcoming London tour offered no indication of what was to come. "It was electrifying; his feet moved like liquid," says stylist Jen Rade. Adds a witness, "If there was something wrong with him, you'd never know."
- Inside the Michael mysteries. From his drug use to the chaotic final hours. WHO reveals what really happened.