Reality television personality Monique Samuels, known for her role on The Real Housewives of Potomac, recently discussed her approach to dating as a single mother of three, as well as her candid parenting style. Samuels, who rejoined the show after a five-year absence, shares children aged 7 to 12 with her ex-husband. While she is not currently dating, she has a clear plan for when she re-enters the dating world: transparency and gradual introduction to her children.
Dating After Divorce: A Six-Month Rule
Samuels’ strategy involves waiting at least six months into a serious relationship before involving her children. First, the partner will meet with the ex-husband to establish a co-parenting baseline, then they will be introduced to the kids. The goal is to present a unified front, emphasizing that both parents are moving forward in a healthier space.
“We’ll encourage the children to give it a chance,” Samuels stated, “Mommy and Daddy are both in a better place.”
This approach underscores the importance of stability for children navigating parental separation. It highlights that while adults move on, children require consistent reassurance and a clear, respectful transition.
Raising Confident, Vocal Children
Samuels emphasizes empowering her children to express themselves freely. She encourages them to speak their minds respectfully but without hesitation, modeling assertiveness and resilience. She jokingly refers to them as “mini mouth versions of me,” proud that they won’t tolerate bullying.
This parenting style is notable because it directly counters the traditional expectation of children being quiet and deferential. It raises questions about how societal norms can stifle children’s voices and why fostering confidence early is crucial.
Holidays, Self-Love, and Brutal Honesty
Unlike many families, Samuels doesn’t prioritize traditional holidays, instead celebrating birthdays with annual trips. She also prioritizes self-love by teaching her children the power of positive self-talk. Her most provocative point is that children are not as “resilient” as adults assume, and often learn to mask their emotions early due to unsafe environments.
“Just because your children are young does not mean they’re stupid,” Samuels asserts. “They pick up on energy and sense everything more than you know.”
This point is significant because it challenges the common dismissal of children’s emotional experiences, suggesting that adults underestimate their sensitivity. It underscores the importance of emotional transparency in parenting.
Strict Rules and Affectionate Bonds
Despite her progressive views, Samuels maintains firm boundaries. The strictest rule in her household is bedtime, enforced without exception. However, she also cherishes the physical affection she shares with her children, hoping that closeness never fades.
This balance illustrates that effective parenting doesn’t require abandoning discipline for warmth. It suggests that children thrive when they have both structure and unconditional love.
Ultimately, Monique Samuels’ parenting philosophy centers around honesty, empowerment, and realistic expectations. She prioritizes teaching her children to navigate the world with confidence and self-awareness, while maintaining clear boundaries and fostering a loving environment. Her approach challenges conventional norms, encouraging parents to be transparent with their children and to acknowledge their emotional intelligence.
