So how do Stephen and Ayesha Curry handle parenting a two-year-old viral sensation? In a piece for Time magazine, Ayesha explains what happens in the Curry household and how things have changed since little Riley burst onto the national scene.
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“All the hoopla and excitement of Stephen playing for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Playoffs has really put our life into perspective,” Ayesha wrote. “If anything, the attention has brought us closer together and made us realize that through all of this, we need to remain balanced and relaxed, especially in our home with our daughter.
“I feel that the biggest thing you can do, as a parent, is to engage. You can never be too busy for your child. There should always be time for a bedtime story, impromptu playtime, or a quick game of hide-and-seek — or ‘find me,’ as Riley calls it. These moments with your child should never get pushed to the bottom of the list. In these moments we set the foundation for the kind of relationship we want to have with our children as they grow.”
Ayesha also addressed Riley sitting with her dad at the podium after games.
“I thought it was beautiful, and I wouldn’t change a thing. There can be more than 50 people and 10 cameras — not counting camera phones — in the room during press conferences, so it can be overwhelming,” Ayesha wrote. “But my husband handled his duties on the podium with ease and class. And my daughter was who she is — vibrant, spunky, and full of life. I hope she carries this with her through adulthood.
“… I thought it was beautiful for him not to push his daddy duties to the bottom of the list just because all eyes were on him. I believe you should let your children be children, and don’t be afraid to be a parent, regardless of who’s watching.”
While many celebrated Riley’s appearance and the connection she has with Stephen, some in the media felt it was inappropriate for her to be present when reporters were trying to do their jobs. Ayesha issued a strong response to any critics.
“Family matters! Our children matter! At the end of the day, when all the lights dim, and the cameras are gone, we are still here as his biggest, loudest, and most supportive cheerleaders. We are also extremely proud that in spite of some criticism, Riley was able to share in that experience with her father and bring joy and laughter into the lives and homes of many all over the world.”
Let Riley be Riley, world. It’s a lot more fun that way.