Melania Trump Reflects on Parenting and Decision to Have Just 1 Child
Former First Lady Melania Trump recently shared personal insights into her family life with former President Donald Trump, touching on their decision to have only one child.
During an interview on Fox & Friends, Melania reflected on the fact that her husband encouraged her to have more children, but she noted her contentment with raising their son Barron and how their busy lives shaped the choice to forgo having additional kids, as People reports.
The interview came just ahead of the release of her memoir, Melania, scheduled for Oct. 8, in which she will share more of her life story.
Melania explained that while Donald Trump expressed interest in having more children, she was satisfied with focusing on Barron. "I was always perfectly fine with one. And Donald was encouraging [us] to have more," she told host Ainsley Earhardt. "I'm completely fine with one because it's [a] very busy life." She elaborated that with Donald's demanding schedule, much of the day-to-day parenting responsibilities fell on her.
Trump's Reflections on Family Decisions
Melania also touched on how her personal views on work and family impacted her decision to stick with one child. "I know how busy he is... and I'm in charge of everything. So that's why. It's just perfect," she said. The former first lady also spoke about the importance of showing children the value of work from an early age, describing her efforts to set an example for Barron.
"I think it's very important that we show our children that we are working too. To give them an example [of] how life is," she said, adding, "That they see us, that we are productive, that we have ideas, that ideas come to life."
Barron's Transition to College Life
Melania and Donald Trump's only child, Barron, was born on March 20, 2006. Now 18, he recently began his studies at New York University in Manhattan. Despite this new chapter in her son's life, Melania does not consider herself an “empty nester.” She explained that Barron chose to remain close to home while attending college, allowing him to live in the family's New York residence.
"I don't feel that way," she said in reference to becoming an empty nester. "I raised Barron as [his] own person and gave him his own yes and nos. I respect that. It was his decision to come here that he wants to be in New York and study in New York and live in his home, and I respect that."
Melania's Perspective on Blended Families
In addition to her reflections on parenting Barron, Melania shared her thoughts on managing a blended family, given that Donald Trump has four children from previous marriages. Donald’s older children include Don Jr., Ivanka, Eric, and Tiffany, ranging from 30 to 46 years old. Melania emphasized that individuality and mutual respect are central to her approach to family dynamics.
"To take [an] individual as they are. You cannot control anyone. You could control only your own behavior, your own words," she explained. "I'm not in control of my husband. I'm not in control of his children. I'm not even in control of my child. He's his own person."
Donald Trump's Other Children and Family Losses
Donald Trump’s other children include Don Jr., 46; Ivanka, 42; Eric, 40; and Tiffany, 30. They come from Donald's previous marriages to Ivana Trump and Marla Maples. Ivana Trump, who was the mother of Don Jr., Ivanka, and Eric, passed away in July 2022 at the age of 73. Marla Maples, Tiffany’s mother, is 60 years old. Melania's approach to parenting reflects her belief in independence and respect within the family unit.
"We all have yes and no's. And we are all individuals. Once you lead your life with respect and love... that's all [that] matters," she noted.
Praise for Barron's Character and Growth
Melania spoke with pride about Barron, describing him as an admirable young man. She highlighted his strength, intelligence, and kindness, recognizing the uniqueness of his experience growing up as the son of a president.
"He's [an] incredible young man. I'm very proud... His strength, his intelligence, his knowledge, his kindness. It's admirable," she said. "He's enjoying his college days. I hope he will have a great experience because his life is very different than any other 18, 19-year-old child."
Looking Ahead to Melania's Memoir
As Melania Trump prepares for the release of her memoir, titled Melania, more insights into her life as the first lady and her family will likely be revealed.
Scheduled for release on Oct. 8, the book is expected to provide a more in-depth look at her unique experiences as the spouse of a former president and her personal philosophy on life and motherhood.
Conclusion
Melania Trump's recent interview gave a rare glimpse into her personal life and parenting approach, offering insight into her decision to raise only one child while balancing the demands of public life.
She also shared her perspectives on blended families, individuality, and the importance of independence in raising children.
As Barron begins his college journey in New York, Melania continues to express her pride in her son and the strong bond they share.
With her memoir set for release, the public may soon learn even more about her life behind the scenes.