In a revealing discussion about their family dynamics, actor Dax Shepard has detailed the unique parenting philosophy he shares with wife Kristen Bell when raising their two daughters.
The celebrity couple, parents to 9-year-old Delta and 11-year-old Lincoln, have consciously eliminated the word 'disrespectful' from their parenting vocabulary, believing it creates an unnecessary power dynamic between adults and children.
Why They Banned the 'D' Word
Shepard explained that traditional uses of the term often stem from children failing to meet adult expectations of subservience rather than genuine misbehaviour. 'If my daughter is making a request of me and I don't like the tonality, my impulse is to say, "Don't talk to me like that. That's disrespectful,"' he shared.
The couple instead focuses on teaching emotional intelligence and clear communication, encouraging their daughters to express their feelings and needs without labelling their behaviour.
A More Empathetic Approach to Parenting
This thoughtful approach extends beyond word choice to their overall parenting style. Both Shepard and Bell have been vocal about prioritising their children's emotional wellbeing and fostering an environment where their daughters feel heard and respected.
The method aligns with modern parenting trends that emphasise mutual respect between parents and children while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
Shepard's candid revelation provides insight into how the Hollywood couple navigates the challenges of raising children in the spotlight while staying true to their values about family dynamics and emotional health.
