- Chip and Joanna Gaines might be most well-known for their home-remodeling and interior-decorating skills on "Fixer Upper," but the parents of five also seem to know a little something about raising a family.
- Although the couple has said they are strict about giving their kids chores and prioritizing family time, they also have said they make sure to have fun with their children.
- Joanna Gaines has stressed that it's important to make time for one's family, but it's also important for parents to make time for themselves and know that they "are enough."
- Visit INSIDER's homepage for more stories.
Top editors give you the stories you want — delivered right to your inbox each weekday.
Thanks for signing up!
Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go.
Chip and Joanna Gaines have a lot on their plate including a successful television show on HGTV, a Magnolia home-decor line, and a farm. They also have five children.
Although the dynamic duo might be beloved for their hijinks and interior-design prowess on HGTV's "Fixer Upper," they also seem to know a little something about parenting and raising their family.
Here is some helpful parenting advice we can learn from Chip and Joanna Gaines.
You don't need the latest toys to entertain your kids
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines) on Jul 31, 2016 at 12:04pm PDT
(Video) „Fixer Upper“-Joanna Gaines ganz ehrlich: „Ich möchte freier leben“ | It's in TV
The "Fixer Upper" stars have made no secret of the fact that they don't own a television and encourage their kids to get creative when it comes to making their own toys.
Whether it's making mountains out of paper cups or using toilet-paper rolls as a throne for their dolls, kids can have fun using the materials they have on hand.
Giving your kids chores can help them learn responsibility
I love her daily egg schedule. @chippergaines way to teach her your ways. #farmchores #ellarose
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines) on Sep 7, 2016 at 8:56am PDT
In addition to teaching their kids about the family business and getting them involved in episodes of "Fixer Upper," the couple also gives their kids chores around the farm like collecting eggs from their chickens.
Age-appropriate chores can instill a sense of responsibility in kids from a young age and help them learn the meaning of hard work. Plus, research has shown that having chores as children is beneficial for people later in life, according to VeryWell.
"Doing chores also helps kids feel like they're part of the team. Pitching in and helping family members is good for them and it encourages them to be good citizens," Amy Morin, a licensed clinical social worker, wrote for VeryWell.
Enjoy being in the moment and don't be too hard on yourself
In a Mother's Day post she shared on her blog in 2016, Joanna opened up about experiencing feelings of "not doing enough" while raising her kids and juggling a career.
"As a working mom, it's the hardest when my kids grab onto me as I'm walking out the door and say, 'Mommy please stay home!'" she wrote. "I don't want to ignore that, so I always explain to them that being with them is my favorite thing in the world."
But she shared a simple tip for being more transparent and giving kids insight into your work life, too.
She continued, "I explain that I have to work just like they have to go to school. I also let them know what I'm doing at work that day — whether it's filming the show or going into the office — and what time I'll be home."
Don't sweat the small stuff
Sometimes picking and choosing your battles can be important when it comes to effective parenting.
Although Chip and Joanna Gaines have admitted to being strict in some aspects of their kids' lives, like outdoor playtime and chores, they have said they are more likely to be lax about things like staying up past bedtime if there's a good reason for it. It's all about focusing on what's most important to you and your family.
Rewarding your kids can be a teaching moment
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines) on Apr 1, 2017 at 1:58pm PDT
There's a difference between simply giving gifts to your kids and rewarding them in a way that teaches more responsibility. Joanna gave fellow parents an example of a creative way to provide an incentive for your kids to learn responsibility when she shared an April 2017 Instagram of her daughter watering her plants.
"I told her she would get a new plant every month if she keeps up with all her little cuties," she wrote. "We are running out of space."
Prioritize family time whenever you can
Although every family is different and many households have parents who both work, Joanna said that she and Chip do their best to put their phones down and make time for family when they're at home.
"When I get home from work I try and leave my phone in the car and make that intentional effort to play and connect face to face with them," she wrote in a 2016 blog post. "Even when I'm tired at the end of a long day, it's fuel to see the look in their eyes when I ask them to cook with me or go play outside."
The HGTV star also acknowledged that this isn't always easy, writing, "As a mom, sometimes I have to change my mindset and remind myself what's important. I only have so many hours a day to spend with these sweet, little people. And they won't be little forever. So I get up and keep moving."
Read More: 9 mistakes I made when I had my first kid that I would never do again
Remember to make time for yourself
That being said, being a good parent also means making sure you're getting enough "me" time and avoiding burning out.
In a 2016 blog post, "The Magnolia Story" author wrote about focusing on balance and how making sure she felt creatively fulfilled made her a better mother.
"I spent a lot of time focusing on balance," she wrote. "Nap time was when I got things done. Whether it was folding laundry, prepping dinner, writing my blog or doing design work — that was my time"
Addressing her fellow parents, she advised, "I hope if you're in this season now you'll take the time to allow yourself a few minutes a day to do what you love, too. I found it was the thing that kept me balanced and energized."
Sow the seeds for a close relationship with your kids early on so you can watch them bloom over time
In July 2016, Joanna's Facebook post about creating a foundation for good parenting through the story of a butterfly bush went viral. In the post, the reality TV star spoke about how she planted a butterfly bush (known for attracting butterflies and other wildlife) by her daughter's window and forgot about it for five years.
"This morning I found my little Emmie sitting by her window looking excitedly at the bush and saying 'Here she is! My little hummingbird comes every morning, mom!'" she wrote. "First, I didn't know she looked out for her bird every morning. Second, I forgot all about the bush and never told her if she looked out the window she would see the prettiest butterflies and hummingbirds gathered around it."
She then likened the lesson learned from the experience to parenting, writing, "It's hard not to think this is a lot like parenting ... You sow seeds early on and work hard to be intentional and then over time you move on to new lessons and challenges. Then one day you look up and the seeds you planted in your little children's hearts are now in full bloom."
Gaines concluded, "Be encouraged today to keep pressing in and tending to their hearts. It will be worth it."
Read More: 8 things every parent should do if they want their children to become millionaires
Try to encourage your children to play outside
Although technology can be handy, there's nothing like some good old-fashioned outdoor playtime to help your kid have fun and grow.
Chip, who has spoken about how he's not a fan of "normal technological advances" and how he encourages his children to have fun outside instead of watching television and playing video games seems to know that very well.
Per Claire McCarthy, MD, of Harvard Medical school, having your children play outside can benefit them in many ways, helping them learn to appreciate nature, socialize with other kids, and even learn how to embrace risks and recover from failures.
Don't be afraid to get a bit goofy with your children
Late night dance party 😂 #emmielou #lalaland
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines) on Oct 4, 2017 at 6:53pm PDT
Although Joanna has said that Chip is "The Fun Dad," she's also not afraid to have a little fun and get goofy with her kids.
Whether she and her daughter are having an impromptu dance party to "La La Land" or she's helping whip up a DIY paper robot costume, she seems to know how important it is to have a little bit of impromptu fun with her family.
FAQs
Who is Chip Gaines wife? ›
Chip, age 48, and Joanna Gaines, age 44, have five children: Three sons and two daughters.
How much does Chip and Joanna Gaines make an episode? ›How much do Chip and Joanna Gaines make per episode of Fixer Upper? Chip and Joanna reportedly made an average of $30,000 per renovation on Fixer Upper, plus an undisclosed fee from HGTV.
Are Chip and Joanna Gaines billionaires? ›With an estimated combined fortune of $20 million, Chip and Joanna Gaines are one of the wealthiest power couples in America, and the stars of the hit reality show, Fixer Upper. They also have several successful businesses, and they are accomplished authors with books on the New York Bestseller list.
Did Fixer Upper couple get divorced? ›The stars of HGTV's “Fixer Upper” reveal that divorce is simply “not an option” in an interview with “Access Hollywood. '' Chip, 46, says he and Joanna, 43, are “not quitters.” The two, who've been married for nearly two decades, recently celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary at the end of May.
Has anyone sold their house from Fixer Upper? ›Clint Harp Selling His Historic Home From Season 1 of 'Fixer Upper'
Where do Chip and Joanna live? ›They live with their five children on a farm near Waco. Want to take a self-guided tour of some of the shops, restaurants, and attractions featured in “Fixer Upper?” Just visit the Magnolia Trail page.
How old was Joanna Gaines when she had her fifth baby? ›Joanna Gaines Says Having Baby Crew at Age 40 Made Her 'Feel Young Again' When Joanna Gaines found out she was pregnant with her fifth child, the former Fixer Upper star was surprised, to say the least.
What nationality is Joanne? › How much do Chip and Joanna charge their clients? ›The purchase price must be under $200,000, and the residence must require at least $30,000 in renovations. Not every room undergoes a full-blown demolition, since Chip and Joanna typically focus on one area of the house.
Who bought the Gaines Castle? ›
They did not have a buyer for the property, so Joanna imagined she was designing it for an older couple who loved to entertain. It certainly wasn't an easy task to renovate the historic abode, but Chip and Joanna pulled it off just as they always do.
Why is Magnolia table closed? ›The popular tourist destination in downtown Waco, Texas was closed in March due to the coronavirus outbreak. According to a statement on the company website, the market will reopen on Monday, June 1, along with Magnolia Table, Chip and Jo's nearby restaurant.
Did Chip and Joanna buy a mansion? ›The Fixer Upper stars bought the property in Waco, Texas. Share this: Joanna Gaines and her husband Chip have finally unveiled the results of their year-long restoration project on a century-old castle in Waco, Texas – and the finished results are truly jaw-dropping.
Who owns the Magnolia net worth? ›Since then, the two have become household names and left the network to start their own, Magnolia, amassing a whopping $50million net worth combined. They also have a homeware and paint line, a magazine, each have written books, and they have their own real-estate company.
How many homes do Chip and Joanna own? ›Waco Fixer Upper Tour - Map of Magnolia Silos & Homes
This tour includes ALL 80 homes renovated on 'Fixer Upper' – Google Maps links included – as well as photos, Maps links, and inside scoop on all 22 properties owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines.
New York literary agent David Vigliano claims the “Fixer Upper” couple unilaterally changed the terms of their five-book publishing contract, which provided the Gaineses with a $12.5 million advance, without his consent, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Was Joanna pregnant during Fixer Upper? ›Thanks to scenes showing the renovation process and the reveal, eagle-eyed fans got a first-ever look at a pregnant Joanna on the show. The HGTV host wore a sweatshirt for most of the episode, but not even baggy clothes could hide her growing belly.
Did Joanna and Chip sell the castle? ›"At the same time, we wanted to create an updated home that could, one day, serve a family well and feel current." The couple was ultimately unable to part with the castle - just yet - so for now, it remains theirs.
Is Clint Harp still married? ›As for his personal life, Clint is still married to his adoring wife, Kelly Harp, with whom he shares kids Holland, Camille and Hudson. The pair wed in 2001 and have been going strong ever since.
What happened to Joanna Gaines Bakery? ›The bakery, along with the rest of Magnolia Market, is currently shut down due to the coronavirus.
Is Michael Matsumoto still with Fixer Upper? ›
He is a producer, known for Fixer Upper (2013), The Voice (2011) and Battle on the Beach (2021).
Where is Chip and Joanna's Farm address? ›Oo Heaven is a place on Earth. Not to be confused with the Little Shop on Bosque (AKA the very first Magnolia store), the 2,889-square-foot Country Farmhouse from season 1 of Fixer Upper, located at 1044 Bosque Ridge Road in Crawford, Texas, is officially on the market.
Do Chip and Joanna still own the Silos? ›The Brazos Valley Cotton Oil Mill Company closed in 1958, and the silos ceased to serve as storage in the 1990s. The grounds opened to the public in October, 2015. The complex is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, TV personalities best known for HGTV's Fixer Upper TV series.
Do you ever see Chip and Joanna at the Silos? ›Rarely do you ever see them at the Silos. They are there though. On a rare occasion Chip has stepped out on the stairwell and will wave or give a shout out to the crowd below. Good to remember that they are super busy these days with all their business ventures and filming.
How old was Joanna Gaines when she had first child? ›Though Joanna will give birth to the baby boy “D” at 40 (her birthday is in April!), she and Chip had their first child Drake Gaines, now 12, when they were 27 and 31, respectively. Their second, Ella Rose Gaines, came just a year after after (she's now 11).
How old is Joanna Gaines youngest boy? ›How old are Joanna and Chip Gaines' kids? Joanna and Chip's oldest son Drake is 18 years old. Ella is 16, Duke is 14, Emmie is 13, and their youngest child Crew is four.
Does Joanna Gaines have a younger sister? ›Joanna Gaines and Her Younger Sister Mikey McCall to Star in a New Magnolia Show Together.
Does Joanna Gaines have a half sister? › Was Joanna Gaines Homecoming Queen? ›During this time Joanna Stevens was often teased as the only Asian American in her school. However, in her junior year of high school—by which time the family was in Waco, Texas—she was named homecoming queen.
Who owns Magnolia Network? ›Magnolia Network is an American basic cable network owned by Warner Bros. Discovery and Chip and Joanna Gaines. It broadcasts personality-based lifestyle programs related to topics such as home construction, renovation, and cuisine.
Is Joanna Gaines giving away money? ›
Waco's elite TV personality Joanna Gaines announced on Facebook Friday that she will be giving away $50,000 to one lucky person with the best business idea or goal.
Do clients have to pay for the furniture on Fixer Upper? ›In short, the answer is no. The couple (or person) was required to either purchase the pieces from HGTV or return them after filming wrapped. This included everything from the giant clocks and the modern chairs to the small trinkets Joanna used to decorate the kitchen countertop.
How much does it cost to have Chip and Joanna Gaines remodel your house? ›Homeowners on the show must have a home with a purchase price under $200,000 and they require at least $30,000 worth of renovations. HGTV does not fund the renovations, but they do cover the cost of one bonus item and pay a talent fee to Chip & Joanna.
Who owns the Waco Castle now? ›Chip and Joanna Gaines have captured the castle… literally. The Magnolia media moguls purchased and renovated a 6,000-square-foot castle in their hometown of Waco, and now they're showing off the results.
What are Chip and Joanna doing with the silos? ›In June, The Waco Tribune broke the news that Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines are expanding Magnolia Market at the Silos. The renovation includes a Wiffle ball field, more shops, gardens, and an entirely relocated historic Waco church—all set to be completed by the end of the year.
What are Chip and Joanna Gaines going to do with the castle? ›The Fixer Upper star is married to Chip Gaines. Share this: Joanna Gaines is incredibly talented and her and her husband Chip Gaines are always doing up homes. Over the last few months, the couple have been renovating a castle with the intention of selling it to a family.
How much does it cost to go to the Silos in Waco? ›Magnolia Market and its famous landmark silos occupy two city blocks in downtown Waco. Owned by HGTV “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, the store offers items in Joanna's unique style. Admission to the complex is free. Visitors can play free games on the lawn or picnic in the shade.
Is Magnolia Table filmed in her house? ›The Historic Gristmill in Valley Mills
The historic Gristmill was built in the year 1900, which officially makes this mill 120+ years old. Today it serves as the filming location for Magnolia Table with Joanna Gaines – the popular TV series on the Magnolia Network.
Where Is Chip and Joanna Gaines' Restaurant Located? Magnolia Table is an eight-minute drive from the Silos, the downtown Waco, Texas, shopping complex home to Chip and Joanna's many businesses. The restaurant only serves breakfast and lunch and is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Monday to Saturday.
Did Joanna give her sister a house? ›"Today's house was my all time favorite #fixerupper," Joanna wrote in the post. "We got to reveal this house to my sweet sis and her family of seven (going on 8!). I can't contain the excitement-after nine years they are finally coming back to Waco!"
How much money did Chip and Joanna Gaines sell the castle for? ›
Sydney Sweeney purchased the 1933 Tudor home for $3 million.
Do Chip and Joanna live in the farm house? ›The couple live in a 1700-square-foot farmhouse in the Waco, Texas, suburb of Crawford, and they have made significant improvements to the 1895-built property since they acquired it in 2012. According to Country Living, the Gaines' farmhouse sits on 40 acres of land.
What is Joanna Gaines salary? ›Chip and Joanna reportedly made an average of $30,000 per renovation on Fixer Upper, plus an undisclosed fee from HGTV. With 79 episodes under their belt in the show's first five seasons, Chip and Joanna made at least $2.37 million just from televised renovations alone.
Where do Chip and Joanna live now? ›Chip and Joanna Gaines live in a gorgeous home in Waco, Texas, that they renovated just for their family.
Where does Chip and Joanna live today? ›They live with their five children on a farm near Waco.
Who bought the giraffe house on Fixer Upper? ›Each episode of "Fixer Upper" has pretty much the same plot. However, the Giraffe house episode was slightly different because it was not a transformation for new homeowners. Chip and Joanna Gaines chose to purchase the place as an investment property, which they worked tirelessly to fix up and flip.
Is Jo and Chip still together? ›February 15, 2023: Chip celebrates his and Joanna's 20th anniversary with a message on the Magnolia Silos. In an adorable Instagram post, Joanna showed off a larger-than-life note her husband made to celebrate their anniversary.
Who was Chip Gaines married to before Joanna? ›Chip Gaines nearly messed up his chances at marrying Joanna, but no, he hasn't been married before. Joanna and Chip Gaines grew to fame after launching their home renovation show Fixer Upper.
Does Chip Gaines have children? › Does Clint still work with Chip and Joanna? ›They did not enlist Clint to return to his role as a carpenter. Instead, they gave him his own show called Restoration Road in 2021. He is incredibly grateful to the pair for helping him land new opportunities and still remains friends with them.
Did Jo and Chip have a baby? ›
Chip and Joanna welcomed their first daughter, Ella Rose, on Oct. 20, 2006. In 2019, when Ella was 13, Joanna shared that her daughter takes after her. "Ella is like me," she told PEOPLE. "I think she'll follow in my footsteps and have her hand in a lot of things.
Have the Gaines sold the castle? ›"At the same time, we wanted to create an updated home that could, one day, serve a family well and feel current." The couple was ultimately unable to part with the castle - just yet - so for now, it remains theirs.
What happened to Jimmy Don on Fixer Upper? ›When Fixer Upper wrapped in 2018, Jimmy Don continued to focus on running his business, JDH Iron Designs. He also regularly posts photos of his latest work on Instagram and snaps from meet-and-greets at his company's Waco location. His fame from the show and ability to pursue his passion has been very rewarding.
How much is Joanna and Chip worth? ›Since then, the two have become household names and left the network to start their own, Magnolia, amassing a whopping $50million net worth combined. They also have a homeware and paint line, a magazine, each have written books, and they have their own real-estate company.
What nationality is Chip Gaines? ›