Kelly Clarkson, the Grammy-winning singer and talk show host, has been candid about her parenting style, particularly her approach to discipline. In past interviews, she has admitted she’s “not above” giving her children occasional spankings, a stance that has sparked conversation among fans and parents alike. Clarkson has acknowledged that disciplining children, especially in public, can be “tricky” due to shifting social attitudes toward physical punishment.

In a 2018 radio interview, Clarkson clarified that when she refers to spanking, she does not mean hitting hard. Instead, she sees it as a light corrective measure, similar to what she experienced during her own childhood. She described the practice as a last resort, prefaced by verbal warnings. According to Clarkson, telling her children, “I’m going to spank you if you don’t stop,” often prevents the behavior from escalating in the first place.

Clarkson’s comments reflect her belief in a balance between setting boundaries and maintaining a loving home environment. She shares two children, River Rose (now 8) and Remington Alexander (now 6), with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. The singer often discusses the joys and difficulties of raising kids, offering glimpses into her home life during interviews and on her talk show.

Beyond discipline, Clarkson has been open about the emotional challenges of motherhood. She has spoken about struggling with “mom guilt,” particularly when her demanding career takes her away from her children. At times, she admits, the balance between work and family leaves her feeling emotionally drained. Her honesty about these struggles has resonated with many working parents facing similar pressures.

While her 2018 comments on spanking drew attention for their directness, Clarkson has not publicly stated whether her views have changed in the years since. Parenting norms continue to evolve, and physical discipline remains a topic of debate, with some experts urging alternatives and others citing their own positive experiences with it.

Whether discussing her music, her family, or the complexities of raising children in the public eye, Clarkson’s willingness to speak openly about personal matters has been a hallmark of her career. Her transparency allows fans to see her not just as a performer, but as a relatable mother navigating the same challenges many parents face.