**Nicole Kidman Discusses Unique Parenting Philosophy at HISTORYTalks Event**
Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman recently shared insights into her parenting approach during a live event at HISTORYTalks in Philadelphia. The 58-year-old star, renowned for her roles in major films and television series, spoke about her relationship with her two teenage daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret Kidman Urban, alongside her thoughts on the influence of her own mother.
In a candid moment, the Emmy-winning performer revealed a specific rule regarding daily affectionate interactions with her daughters. “Both my daughters will kill me for saying this, but I’m like, ‘You need to hug [me] for two minutes a day,’” Kidman joked, highlighting the importance of physical closeness. She expressed her belief in the physical and emotional benefits of this habit, stating, “It releases certain chemicals in the body and everyone needs to be hugged for about two minutes a day.”
Kidman opened the discussion with television personality Hoda Kotb by discussing family dynamics during the often challenging teenage years. Despite common perceptions of this stage being troublesome, Kidman affirmed that parenting adolescents has been “extraordinary” for her. “We’re so close, the three of us, we talk about everything,” she remarked.
The actress elaborated on how she supports her daughters through their challenges, often taking time to listen to them in moments of vulnerability. “It means sitting on the end of their bed when they say, ‘Come in here, sit down.’ And you go in, and you’re exhausted, and you listen,” she reflected. Kidman also mentioned her attempt to clarify whether her daughters seek advice or simply want to vent their frustrations, saying, “I always say, ‘Do you want me to give you advice now, or are you just sort of venting?’” She laughed while admitting that most of the time, they prefer to talk without soliciting advice.
The conversation also touched on the values Kidman seeks to instil in her children, ones that had been imparted to her by her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman. “She told me, ‘Don’t ever let anyone break your spirit,’” Kidman said, reflecting on her mother’s wisdom and the sacrifices she made for her own family. Kidman described how her mother, despite her intelligence and ambition, sacrificed her career aspirations during a time when women faced numerous societal constraints.
The actress emphasised the legacy of resilience and determination that her mother instilled, which both she and her sister hold dear. “In a weird way, both my sister and I – who is now a lawyer and has six children – we’re sort of pulling what she’s given us forward and putting it into the world,” Kidman noted.
Kidman also acknowledged the pivotal role her mother played in motivating her to continue her career in the entertainment industry. After the birth of her daughter Sunday Rose, Kidman contemplated retiring from acting. Her mother, however, encouraged her to maintain her creative pursuits, asserting, “I wouldn’t completely give up. You’ve been doing this since you were little. It’s your make-up.” Reflecting on her mother’s insight, Kidman expressed gratitude for her support during that critical time.
Additionally, Kidman highlighted the significance of service and social justice in her upbringing, values she hopes have been passed down to her daughters. “I think growing up in a family that was very much committed to social justice and caring for other people, I think that’s penetrated, hopefully, my daughters,” she said, demonstrating her commitment to encouraging empathy and care within her family.
In the wake of personal loss, including the passing of her father, Dr. Antony Kidman, in 2014, followed by her mother in 2024, Kidman’s reflections underscore the deep connections enduring within families. Through sharing her parenting philosophy, she not only aims to foster a nurturing environment for her children but also to honour the legacy of her own parents.
As one of Hollywood’s leading actresses, Nicole Kidman’s poignant insights into parenting reveal a blend of affection, open communication, and strong family values, showcasing the delicate balance of raising teenagers in today’s world.