Jared Padalecki's 9-year-old son, Austin Shepard, also known as Shep, is the spitting image of his famous dad. The resemblance is uncanny as Shep prepares for the back-to-school season in new photos featured in Austin Lifestyle. With his long hair covering one eye and sporting a button-up blue polo, Shep poses to the side, looking like a mini version of his father. In addition to these photos, Shep is seen posing with other children, including the daughter of his dad's Walker co-star, Odette Annable.

The kids happily smile for the camera as they play on a playground and showcase adorable back-to-school outfits. Jared, aged 41, shares Shep and his 11-year-old son Thomas Colton, and 6-year-old daughter Odette Elliott with his wife Genevieve Padalecki. In 2014, Jared shared a sweet anecdote about Shep when he was just a baby. He mentioned how excited he was when Shep started crawling and accepting him as part of his life.

Shep has a deep love for animals and nature. On his 8th birthday, Genevieve posted a collection of photos showcasing Shep's journey with various animals. She expressed her gratitude for the lessons Shep has taught them about patience and kindness.

Jared also shared a valuable parenting lesson in a 2017 interview with PEOPLE. He admitted that it's crucial to let go of control and embrace each moment as it comes.

Making plans with kids often leads to unexpected surprises like late bedtimes, sickness, and nightmares. Instead, Jared believes that being present with love and support is more important than sticking to rigid plans. Being a parent has taught him the value of adapting and being there for whatever challenges arise.