Alicia Silverstone's Controversial Parenting Techniques Spark Debate Among Parents

Alicia Silverstone rose to fame in the 1990s with her starring role in the hit comedy Clueless. She went on to star in several Hollywood films and establish herself as a successful actress. In recent years, Silverstone has attracted attention for her unconventional parenting techniques, such as "baby-led weaning" and "attachment parenting." Read on to learn more…

How Bear Came to Be

Alicia Silverstone and her former husband, Christopher Jarecki first met in 1997, and had a long-term relationship lasting for nearly 20 years before getting married in 2005. However, in February 2018 the couple announced their separation, stating that they had "grown apart" and decided to end their marriage amicably.

How Bear Came to Be
Photo by Frank Trapper // Corbis via Getty Images

They have one child together, a son named Bear Blu. Despite their separation, Silverstone and Jarecki have been spotted on multiple occasions together, indicating a cordial relationship post-divorce and co-parenting their son amicably.

Making Headlines

In 2012, Alicia Silverstone faced controversy when she uploaded a video to her website showing her pre-chewing food for her then-infant son, Bear, before feeding it to him by way of what is called "pre-chewed" or "direct transfer."

Making Headlines
Instagram // @aliciasilverstone

While the technique is sometimes used in traditional cultures, it was met with criticism and skepticism in Western societies where it is considered unsanitary. Silverstone defended her actions, saying that it was a natural and loving way to feed her child.

Attachment Parenting

Alicia is known for her unique parenting style, which emphasizes attachment parenting and conscious parenting. This includes practices such as breastfeeding her child until the age of six, co-sleeping, and baby-wearing.

Attachment Parenting
Instagram // @aliciasilverstone

She is also a strong advocate for a plant-based diet and raises her child on a vegan diet. In her parenting philosophy, Alicia emphasizes the importance of listening to one's intuition and being attuned to the needs of the child. She also encourages the use of gentle discipline and positive reinforcement.

A “Crunchy” Mom

Silverstone describes herself as "natural" or "crunchy" mom, which refers to a lifestyle that prioritizes natural and organic practices in parenting. She wrote a book called The Kind Mama: A Simple Guide to Supercharged Fertility, a Radiant Pregnancy, a Sweeter Birth, and a Healthier, More Beautiful Beginning, where she shares more about her parenting techniques.

A “Crunchy” Mom
Instagram // @aliciasilverstone

A nature lover, she also encourages parents to take their children on walks, spend time outside, and engage in activities like gardening to instill a connection and respect for the natural world.