Gladys Reyes on What She’d Tell Her Younger Mom Self

“Don’t be a panic mom,” said the actress.

Published on Aug 5, 2025

Gladys Reyes may be known for her strong on-screen characters, but at home, she’s a mom of four who’s still learning on the job. At the GMA Gala held on August 2, the actress spoke with Smart Parenting about what parenting has taught her over the years.

Also read: Gladys Reyes and Christopher Roxas: How They Lasted 25 Years

Gladys Reyes Shares Her Real-Life Parenting Advice

Gladys and husband Christopher Roxas have been married since 2004. As working parents, they’ve raised four kids while juggling showbiz and family life. Looking back, Gladys admits she didn’t have all the answers when she started.

“Don’t be a panic mom,” she told Smart Parenting. “I was a panic mom lalo na sa aking eldest. Ganun naman yata ‘yung first-time moms, right? Pero eventually I learned, and until now, I'm still learning.”

She believes no parenting book can cover everything, because each child is different. What works for one might not work for another. “So continue as a parent, and wala talagang eksakto na mabibili na books for that. Every parenting is unique, as well as your children,” she said.

Gladys, whose eldest son is now in college, knows that raising teens takes a mix of old-school discipline and modern awareness. “My style is a combination of traditional and modern parenting,” she said. “Iba na rin kasi ang parenting ngayon. We have to talk to them always. Communication is very important. Dapat ma-instill sa kanila to keep their values and faith.”

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One piece of advice she feels strongly about: make time for your kids, no matter their age. “Savor each moment,” she said. “Magugulat ka na lang, ang laki na nila. Kahit malalaki na sila, if they want to play games, play with them. Find time.”

For Gladys, family bonding is a non-negotiable. Despite her busy schedule, she makes sure to carve out time for movie nights, card games, and occasional staycations. “Alam ko maraming busy parents, like me. Pero panata ko na [dapat meron kaming family bonding].”

Click here to read more real mom advice.

Hanna is a News Desk Writer at Smart Parenting, covering parenting, health, culture, and more. Off the clock, she’s likely people-watching at a café or park, matcha latte in hand.