Reba McEntire’s Parenting Secret: The Simple Family Habit That Changed Shelby’s Life

Behind the success of country music icon Reba McEntire and her only son, Shelby Blackstock, lies a surprisingly simple yet powerful parenting secret—a small habit passed down through generations that made a big difference.

A Small Habit, a Big Impact

In an interview with Better Homes & Gardens, Reba revealed that her father instilled in his children the importance of tidiness, especially making their beds every morning. “There were four of us kids growing up in a very small house, so if you didn’t pick up your things and get them out of the living room it got a little cluttered,” Reba shared. “Daddy made us kids all make our beds when we got out of it in the morning, and that’s what I do still today.”

Reba didn’t keep this lesson to herself—she made sure to pass it on to Shelby as a non-negotiable rule. “I taught Shelby the same thing. It’s very important to make your bed in the morning; that is a standing rule in my house,” she emphasized.

A Mother’s Inspiration for Music

While her father taught her discipline, it was Reba’s mother, Jacqueline Smith, who inspired her love for music. After her mother’s passing, Reba admitted, “Oh I didn’t want to (sing). I told my little sister Susie when we were working at the house, I said, ‘I don’t know if I want to sing anymore.’ She said, ‘Why?’ I said, ‘Because I always sang for Mama.’”

“Mama was the one that inspired us kids, taught us kids how to sing, took us to our singing gigs and was our biggest cheerleader,” Reba reflected, sharing that her mother once told her, “Reba, I will be living my dreams through you.” Those words gave her the strength to continue her musical journey and become the star she is today.

Shelby—Success Built on Small Things

Though Shelby didn’t follow his mother into music, he remains her greatest pride. Reba even included her son in her songs; in her rendition of “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” she sings about little Shelby’s innocent secrets and smiles.

Shelby’s achievements are not just the result of talent, but also the meaningful lessons and habits passed down from his family—a foundation of encouragement and good habits that supported his growth.

Conclusion

Sometimes, the simplest traditions and habits are the secret ingredients to a family’s happiness and success. The story of Reba McEntire and her son Shelby is a testament to the power of love, discipline, and the small, meaningful routines that shape our lives.

Based on sources from Better Homes & Gardens, NBC, and TODAY.