Popular musician and actress Reba McEntire, known for her down-to-earth personality, recently opened up about her country background and how it shaped her parenting style. Growing up on a ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma, Reba was raised as a country girl, helping with cattle and participating in barrel racing alongside her family. These experiences instilled in her important values and principles that she carried with her throughout her life.
Reba’s upbringing taught her the importance of keeping her word and showing up when she said she would. She shared, “Mama and Daddy always said to me, ‘If you tell somebody you’re going to be somewhere at a certain time, you show up.’ That’s the way I was raised.” These values became the foundation for her approach to raising her son, Shelby, who was born in 1990.
Despite being a famous mother, Reba knew she had to be cautious in how she raised her son. She made some tough choices along the way, staying true to her principles. One of those choices was not letting Shelby win when they played games or cards. Reba believed that winning all the time would teach him nothing and could potentially make him a spoiled brat. Instead, she wanted him to understand the importance of being liked by others and treating everyone with respect.
Reba and her ex-husband, Narvel Blackstock, raised Shelby to appreciate others and understand that nobody is superior to anyone else. She has proudly shared that people have often told her that they would never know he had been blessed with the life he has had. Reba attributes this to the values and lessons she imparted to him, as well as the influence of his father.
Before becoming a mother, Reba admits she was somewhat self-centered. However, having Shelby changed her perspective entirely. She made sure to spend as much time with him as possible, even taking him on the road with her and flying back home after concerts to be with him. Reba cherishes her bond with her son and acknowledges that raising him taught her to be less focused on herself and more attentive to his needs.
Reba has also been open about Shelby’s struggles with ADHD. When he was younger, reading was challenging for him, but now, in his 30s, he reads voraciously, always striving to improve and do better. She sees him as a gift from God and admires his character and determination. Reba is overjoyed for her son, especially when he recently married his wife, Marissa, in a fairytale-like ceremony at Walt Disney World.
Reba McEntire’s parenting approach reflects her country upbringing and the values she holds dear. By teaching her son the importance of humility, respect, and hard work, she has raised a grounded and well-rounded individual. Reba’s story serves as an inspiration to parents of all backgrounds and ages, reminding us that the way we raise our children can shape them into extraordinary human beings.
What are your thoughts on Reba’s parenting approach? Share your thoughts below!
