Parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially with three kids at wildly different stages. Nicky Hilton Rothschild (mom, fashion designer, and globetrotter) shares how she nurtures her children’s individuality while keeping family bonds strong. From rock-climbing daredevils to tiny fashionistas, here’s her real-world wisdom.
1. “Parent the Kid You Have, Not the Kid You Imagined”
Her trio couldn’t be more different:
👧 Lily-Grace, 7 – The fearless adventurer (currently obsessed with rock climbing).
👗 Teddy, 6 – The creative spirit (lives in costumes and glitter).
🧸 Chasen, 20mo – The explorer (master of ”how fast can I toddle into trouble?”).
Her mantra: “Celebrate what makes them unique—even if it means buying climbing gear or sequins by the pound.”
2. Family Bonding: Big Trips & Small Moments
🌴 Adventure Time
- A recent Maui trip at her childhood resort: “Watching them love the same water slides I did? Priceless.”
- Universal Studios for Gabby’s Dollhouse merch launch: “Sometimes magic comes in a CatRat plush.”
🏡 Everyday Magic
- Weekend movie nights with themed snacks.
- ”Divide and conquer” outings (Dad takes the girls; Mom chases Chasen).
Pro tip: “You don’t need a passport to connect—just put your phone down and be present.”
3. Parenting Across Age Gaps
Challenge: A 5-year gap between oldest and youngest means different needs, schedules, and meltdown triggers.
Her hack:
- Rotate 1:1 time (e.g., Lily gets rock-climbing Saturdays; Teddy gets dress-up tea parties).
- Teamwork saves sanity: “James and I tag-team—no guilt about splitting up sometimes.”
4. Traditions: The Glue of Childhood
🐰 Easter is her holiday:
- Months of prep for personalized baskets (think: tiny designer sunglasses for Teddy).
- Egg hunts with a twist (golden egg = extra screen time).
🎄 Looking ahead: “I want them to remember how holidays felt, not just what they got.”
5. The Real Secret? Flexibility + Laughter
- ”Parenting plans are written in sand, not stone.” (Yesterday’s win = today’s fail.)
- ”Sometimes the laundry piles up, and that’s okay.”
- ”My kids won’t remember a spotless house—they’ll remember me being there.”
Final Thought
Parenting, to Nicky, is about:
✨ Letting kids be wildly themselves
✨ Making memories out of messes
✨ Knowing love > perfection
“The days are long, but the years? They’re a blur of glitter, scraped knees, and so much love.”
What’s your family’s favorite tradition? Share below! 👇
