Nadya ‘Octomom’ Suleman has undoubtedly established very strict rules for her octuplets.
Suleman catapulted into the spotlight in 2009, earning the notorious title “Octomom” after giving birth to the first ever surviving set of octuplets.
Juggling the demands of six children born prior to the octuplets, alongside a full-time college schedule, Suleman faced scathing criticism, often labeled as “an unemployed welfare recipient.” She clarified to People magazine, “That was never the case.”
Reflecting on her parenting journey, Suleman acknowledges feeling as if she “failed” her older children by being overly permissive. This led her to establish a firm set of household rules, aiming to equip her octuplets for future success.
With a tone of contrition, she reflected, “I personally believe I failed as a parent to implement all the knowledge I acquired in college. I raised them just permissive, which is wrong. You should implement consistent structure, discipline, and consequences, plus love—unconditional love and acceptance. I only grasped the latter.
“I shouldn’t have spoiled them. I learned the hard way. But even at that, I managed to raise them to be kind and humble.”
In contrast, for her eight youngest, Suleman created a structure with clear boundaries, balancing love, understanding, and discipline. This intentional approach led to rules such as: “They’re not allowed to date until they’re 18,” she stated.
“Mom’s very strict, and she teaches us a lot,” Nariyah, 16, chimed in. “We don’t even have phones; we share one phone for communication.”
Social media is another strict no-no in Suleman’s household.
“It’s toxic. I don’t even enjoy using it,” she said. “I only do it to share moments, and I dread it. I can hardly imagine what today’s kids face. It’s unhealthy. I don’t believe anyone should be exposed to social media until they’re at least 18.”
Her intent is to foster a mindset in her children that values humility over self-absorption.
“I don’t believe anyone should go on social media, or be allowed on until they’re 18 at least.”
“Times have changed,” she continued reflectively. “I’m more of an old-school parent, encouraging my kids to focus on helping others. Real fulfillment comes from serving, not from self-centeredness. I worry that many young people today seem self-absorbed and entitled. My goal is to help my children recognize that.”
Nadya and 11 of her children reside in a modest three-bedroom apartment in Southern California. “We save quite a bit on groceries by avoiding animal products. They tend to be the most expensive and, ethically speaking, we feel it’s better for the animals and the planet.”
Evenings are often spent in family bonding, filled with board games and movie nights, yet some teenagers are looking forward to newfound freedoms.
“I’m excited about driving,” Jeremiah, one of the older children, said.
In contrast, his sister Nariyah eagerly anticipates entering the workforce. “I’m excited to earn money so I can help Mom,” she expressed.
The youngest octuplet, Makai, sweetly assured his mother, “In the future, when we have money of our own, we could get real gifts for you.”
Suleman gently replied, “I don’t really want material gifts. I cherish the letters you write me.”
“Confessions of Octomom” will air on Lifetime on March 10, offering viewers a glimpse into the unique life of this unconventional family.
