Magandang Buhay host Melai Cantiveros is adored by many not only for her comedic talent but also for her role as a devoted mother to Mela, 9, and Stela, 6. In this episode of Kapamilya Chat, our favorite funny momshie relates her journey as a parent.

People are curious as to how the Franciscos spend quiet time at home, given Mela and Stela’s infectious high energy. According to Melai, quiet times are not their favorite because the only instance the kids get silent is when they’re not feeling well, and no parent would wish for that. However, she mentioned that the kids are obedient; they know how to keep quiet when asked to.

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Given the kids’ undeniable charm, fans wonder if Melai is open to introducing them to showbiz. Melai said that she’s okay with it, but her husband, Jason Francisco, believes it’s best to wait until their daughters can make their own decisions. They want Mela and Stela to pursue showbiz only if it's genuinely their passion, not because of pressure. For now, they're content with the girls participating in brief commercial or advertisement shoots.

As a mom, Melai humbly acknowledges that she's not perfect and she often learns from her children as well. There are moments when her kids gently correct her, especially if she says something they deem improper. This mutual exchange of learning not only teaches Melai but also indicates her children's understanding of right and wrong.

She is also the disciplinarian type, believing that it’s the only way she can prepare the kids for the real world. She underscored that it is important to teach kids what is right and wrong while they’re still young. Instilling these values early on will help shape their character and guide them as they grow.

“Disiplina talaga is the key to success sa mga anak natin para pagdating ng panahon, hindi ka na mahihirapan umalis sa mundo dahil ang anak mo ay iko-correct mo kahit matanda ka na.”

Asked for an advice to her fellow mommies, Melai urged them to ignore public judgment, particularly in today’s era of harsh social media comments. She emphasized the importance of ignoring external noise and instead encouraged moms to be kind to themselves. Parenting is challenging, and the last thing anyone needs is to be criticized for their choices in raising their children.

“Be good to yourself. Huwag kayong masyadong ma-pressure na maging mabuting mom kasi sa anak ninyo, kayo ang the best mom, kasi kayo lang ang nag-iisang nanay niya,” Melai emphasized that mothers possess innate insights into what's best for their children, and they should trust their instincts rather than yielding to other people’s opinion.

Part of resisting pressure is avoiding comparisons with other families, especially if it only makes you insecure. Instead, she pressed, “Kung ano ang meron kayo, pagyamanin n’yo, huwag na kayong maghangad ng iba pa.”

Add to that, moms must learn how to reach out for support from trusted people when needed, instead of pretending to have everything under control.