Julia Roberts Reveals Her Timeless Parenting Secrets for Adult Twins: Navigating College Life, Technology, and Unbreakable Family Bonds
Hollywood legend Julia Roberts, celebrated globally as “America’s Sweetheart” and the star of beloved films like Pretty Woman and Erin Brockovich, recently shared intimate details about her approach to parenting her now-grown twins, PhinnaeusandHazel Moder. As they recently marked their 19th birthday on November 28, the transition into young adulthood and college life has brought new dynamics to their family. However, for the 56-year-old actress, her fundamental parenting style remains remarkably consistent, a testament to her deep commitment to her children’s well-being and her refreshing perspective on evolving family roles.
In a candid discussion during the December 4 episode ofToday with Hoda Kotb and Mahershala Ali, Roberts articulated her steadfast philosophy. She admitted that her methods for parenting her children while they are away at college are “not all that different” from when they lived under her roof. “I parent them the same way out of the house that I parented them in the house,” she explained, emphasizing the enduring nature of a mother’s concern. This consistent approach is rooted in practical care and unwavering affection.
The beloved Steel Magnolias star elaborated on the types of questions and checks that define her continued engagement. Her concerns are universally relatable to any parent: “‘Are you getting enough sleep? You sound like you’re sick, are you drinking enough tea? Text me when you get home. I can see that you’re home safe and sound.'” These simple yet profound inquiries highlight a mother’s innate desire to nurture, protect, and stay connected, regardless of geographical distance or her children’s age. It speaks volumes about Roberts’ down-to-earth persona, demonstrating that even a global superstar grapples with the same parental anxieties and joys as anyone else. Her commitment to their health and safety remains paramount, illustrating that the core of parenting doesn’t diminish just because children grow up and move away.
What truly resonates with Roberts, and what she finds immensely gratifying, is her children’s receptiveness to her continued maternal instincts. “And I have immense amount of appreciation for both of my older kids because they still allow me to be the same mom to them and it’s not eye-rolling,” the Leave the World Behindstar shared. This lack of “eye-rolling” is a significant indicator of the strong, respectful bond she shares with Phinnaeus and Hazel. It reflects a deep mutual understanding and appreciation within the family, where her children not only tolerate but genuinely welcome her affectionate oversight. This mutual respect is a cornerstone of their family dynamic, ensuring open lines of communication and a healthy, evolving relationship between parent and adult child.
Julia Roberts and her husband, acclaimed cinematographer Daniel Moder, 56, have built a strong family unit since welcoming their twins in 2004. In addition to Phinnaeus and Hazel, they are also proud parents to their son, Henry Daniel Moder, who is 16. The couple has always prioritized a relatively private family life, shielding their children from the intense glare of the Hollywood spotlight as much as possible. This deliberate choice has undoubtedly contributed to the grounded nature of their children and the authentic connections within their household. Their partnership, enduring for over two decades, forms the bedrock of their family’s stability and shared values.
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Like many modern families, the Moder household has navigated the omnipresent challenges posed by technology. The Ticket to Paradise star revealed her pragmatic approach to managing screen time and fostering real-world connection. “So for us, we just had sort of simple rules where we had a charging station where everyone’s phones go when you get home,” she divulged. This designated “charging station” serves as a physical reminder to disconnect from digital devices and reconnect with family members.
Beyond the charging station, another critical rule ensures that meal times remain sacred spaces for conversation and bonding. “There’s no phones at the table, certainly,” Roberts stated unequivocally. These “simple” rules, as she calls them, are not arbitrary restrictions but rather deliberate strategies to preserve genuine human interaction in an increasingly digital world. They encourage presence, active listening, and shared experiences, reinforcing the family’s commitment to quality time over screen time. By setting these clear boundaries, Julia and Daniel Moder have cultivated an environment where family connection is prioritized and cherished, offering a valuable lesson for parents everywhere.
When Mahershala Ali posed the question of whether her discomfort being away for work differed from her children going to college, Julia readily agreed it was a distinct feeling. “Yeah. And it’s funny too, right now me being away,” the mom of three reflected. This acknowledgment highlights the complex emotional landscape of modern parenting, where both parents and children are often dispersed, pursuing their individual paths. Her current situation, where she is in one time zone, husband Danny and son Henry are home, and Phinnaeus and Hazel are each in their respective college locations, underscores the physical distances many families navigate today.
Despite the geographical separation, the Moder family makes a concerted effort to stay connected, leveraging technology in ways that enhance rather than detract from their bond. Julia fondly recounted a recent heartwarming instance: “And then Phinn is somewhere and Hazel is somewhere and we were all on a FaceTime the other day — together, all of us. And it was so fun, I might of had a towel on my wet head.” This candid anecdote paints a vivid picture of a family that remains intimately intertwined, finding joy in shared moments, even virtual ones, and accepting each other’s casual, authentic selves. It illustrates that deep love transcends physical distance, finding new avenues for expression and connection in the digital age.
The ease and happiness expressed during that family FaceTime call epitomize the enduring strength of their bond. “We were all so happy to be together that way that we still are so deeply in love,” Julia concluded. This powerful declaration of love is a testament to the foundation she and Daniel Moder have meticulously built over the years. It’s a love that has matured and adapted, encompassing the challenges of growing children, busy careers, and the demands of Hollywood. Their story is a reminder that while the specific circumstances of celebrity life may differ, the universal themes of family, love, and connection remain at the heart of every household.
Julia Roberts, known for her captivating smile and relatable charm, continues to be an inspiration not only for her cinematic achievements but also for her grounded approach to family life. Her willingness to share her parenting journey offers a refreshing perspective, demonstrating that a hands-on, deeply invested style of mothering is not only possible but thrives even as children become independent young adults. Her insights into navigating college, setting technology boundaries, and prioritizing emotional connection resonate deeply, reinforcing the idea that strong family bonds are cultivated through consistent effort, mutual respect, and an abundance of love, regardless of age or distance. As her twins embark on their next chapter, it’s clear that Roberts’ unwavering love and timeless parenting wisdom will continue to guide and support them every step of the way.