In a recent interview on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” actress Kristen Bell made a surprising revelation about her children’s drink preferences. She shared that her two daughters, aged 10 and 8, have ordered nonalcoholic beers at restaurants before. While this might sound unusual, Bell emphasized the importance of context.
To understand the context, we have to go back to when Bell’s kids were babies. She and her husband, Dax Shepard, used to take evening walks with their children in their neighborhood. Shepard, who is a recovering addict, enjoyed nonalcoholic beer and would often have one while carrying their daughter on his chest. As a curious baby, she would sometimes paw at the can and even suck on its rim.
For her daughter, this experience became something special, something associated with her father and their family time. Bell explained that her kids’ taste in beverages stems from those early memories and the connection they have with their father. However, this preference has caused some confusion when they go out to eat as a family, with her daughter asking for nonalcoholic beer at restaurants.
Bell humorously admitted that it can be challenging to explain to her daughter that nonalcoholic beer is something they typically enjoy at home. She finds herself torn between not wanting to judge her daughter’s choice and being aware of others’ perceptions. Nevertheless, Bell stands firm in her belief that she’s not doing anything wrong and that people can judge her if they want to.
This is not the first time Bell has shared her children’s enjoyment of nonalcoholic beer. In a previous interview with chef Carla Hall, she mentioned that their preferred brand is O’Doul’s, which contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume. She even humorously recalled catching her daughters sipping on O’Doul’s during their at-home schooling sessions, wondering what other parents and teachers might think.
Bell has always been open and honest with her children about their father’s addiction issues. She believes that no topic should be considered taboo in their household. From discussing drugs to addressing sexuality, Bell believes in giving her children the chance to understand these “hard topics” by being vulnerable and open.
The actress wants her children to grow up with an understanding of their father’s journey and the importance of mental health. She strives to create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing these sensitive subjects. For Bell, providing her children with information and support is essential.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder or mental health issues, there are resources available. In the United States, you can call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357) for assistance.
By sharing her story and being open about her family’s experiences, Kristen Bell encourages others to have conversations surrounding addiction and mental health. Her approach to parenting reminds us that vulnerability and understanding can go a long way in fostering healthy relationships.
Leave a Reply