Reba McEntire On Raising Son Shelby To Be Humble, How She Kept Him From Becoming A Spoiled Brat
Reba McEntire, the iconic country singer and actress, has been open about her unwavering commitment to instilling humility and respect in her son, Shelby Blackstock. As the proud mother of a successful race car driver, Reba reflects on the intentional strategies she and her ex-husband, Narvel Blackstock, employed to raise Shelby in a way that he would appreciate the value of hard work and avoid the pitfalls of entitlement. In her recent interviews, she shares lessons learned during his upbringing that have shaped Shelby into the grounded individual he is today.
Teaching Values Through Everyday Experiences
From a young age, Reba understood the significance of real-life lessons in shaping one’s character. One unique approach she took was to ensure that Shelby learned the importance of effort through family activities. “When we would play games or cards, I’d never let Shelby win,” she recalls. This seemingly simple tactic was about more than just winning; it was about embedding the idea that success comes from hard work and perseverance. Reba emphasizes this lesson with her guiding mantra: “I’ll always love you, but I want other people to like you. So don’t be a little jerk.” This level of honesty and care exemplifies her parenting philosophy, one focused on instilling respect for others and accountability.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Achievements
Now at 32 years old, Shelby Blackstock has navigated his share of personal challenges, particularly his battle with ADHD. Reflecting on his journey, Reba expresses immense pride in his progress—not just in his career as a race car driver but also in his personal development. “He has read ten books this year alone,” she beams, highlighting his growth in education and maturity. This achievement is all the more remarkable given the hurdles he has faced. Reba attributes part of his thriving nature to a strong support system, which included dedicated nannies who helped him along the way. This collaborative effort showcases how her commitment to balance in parenting allowed Shelby to flourish.
The Role of Leading by Example
Reba McEntire’s parenting philosophy revolves around leading by example. She believes that demonstrating hard work, humility, and ethical behavior sets a significant tone for children to follow. As she navigated her demanding career in the entertainment industry, Reba made it a priority to carve out quality time with Shelby. Whether that meant attending his events, supporting his passions, or simply being present at home, her efforts emphasized her dedication to nurturing a strong bond with her son. This active involvement has been pivotal in forming Shelby’s character and work ethic.
Today, Reba McEntire continues to take pride in Shelby’s achievements as a responsible and driven individual. Her belief in prioritizing character formation over entitlement shines through in their relationship. As Reba supports Shelby in his future endeavors, she reaffirms her commitment to raising a humble, grounded son who remains grateful and hardworking.
Ultimately, Reba McEntire’s parenting journey showcases the importance of diligence, humility, and love. Her holistic approach to raising a child amid the temptations of fame offers valuable lessons for parents from all walks of life. If you find inspiration in Reba’s story, consider reflecting on your own parenting style and how you can incorporate the values of humility and discipline into your family’s life.
