Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Bush Aspire to Parent Like Their Parents
Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Bush, the daughters of former President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, have opened up about their parenting philosophies in an exclusive interview. Both sisters reflect on the values and lessons instilled in them during their own childhoods, discussing how they hope to mirror their parents’ approach to raising children in today’s rapidly changing world. With the advancements in technology and the prevalent influence of social media, they outline how their upbringing plays a pivotal role in shaping how they parent their own kids.
Nostalgia for Their Upbringing
Barbara Bush recalls their parents’ “laissez-faire” approach to parenting during the late 20th century—a time characterized by freedoms that allowed children to explore their surroundings. Growing up in the suburbs of Texas, Jenna and Barbara enjoyed a childhood where they could roam their neighborhood, play outside, and engage in creative pursuits, all while knowing that their parents had established a safety net for them.
In contrast to their relatively unrestricted upbringing, both sisters acknowledge the complexities faced by modern parents today. The influence of technology and the internet has changed the dynamics of parenting, often making it harder for parents to navigate the balance between ensuring safety and granting freedom. Jenna, who is raising three children of her own, emphasizes that she is particularly aware of the dangers of excessive screen time and has chosen to postpone granting her eldest daughter access to a cellphone, despite the fact that many of her peers already have one.
Emulating Core Values
Despite the changes in the landscape of parenting, Jenna and Barbara are committed to fostering the core values that their parents instilled in them—values that prioritize being present, nurturing creativity, and encouraging exploration. Barbara, now a mother of two young children, advocates for adapting their parenting styles to suit today’s environment while still paying homage to the principles their parents practiced. This includes encouraging their children to appreciate the world around them and seize opportunities for adventure while also being mindful of the present moment.
Jenna fondly reminisces about the small joys from their childhood—family celebrations, their father’s enthusiastic participation in activities, and the emphasis placed on expressing love and gratitude. She highlights the importance of connecting with their children by viewing the world through their eyes, an approach that fosters happiness and allows them to embrace life’s challenges together. These valuable lessons have influenced not only their parenting but have also inspired the sisters to embark on a creative journey.
A Tribute to Family Love
The sisters have recently collaborated on a children’s book titled “I Loved You First,” a heartfelt tribute that encapsulates their experiences and the love they wish to share with their children. The book serves as an acknowledgment of their upbringing and emphasizes the message of love and appreciation parents should express to their children. Both Jenna and Barbara view the work as a way to encourage parents to recognize and reinforce the emotional bonds that tie families together.
In “I Loved You First,” the sisters invite readers to celebrate the magic found in everyday moments. They hope to inspire other parents to foster meaningful connections with their kids while highlighting the crucial role that familial love plays in both their lives and the lives of their children. The book has already garnered attention, and Jenna and Barbara encourage all parents to reflect on the love they share within their families, evoking a sense of belonging and warmth that every child deserves.
As Jenna and Barbara Bush continue to navigate the challenges of parenthood, their dedication to emulating their parents’ values resonates through their actions and creative endeavors. With the release of their book, they aim to not only share their journey but also inspire others to create a supportive and loving environment for their children.
“I Loved You First” is now available, and both sisters hope that it will serve as a reminder of the importance of love in parenting and the significance of connection within families.
