Gemma Atkinson responds to criticism over parenting choice

Gemma Atkinson, a former Hollyoaks star, recently found herself in the spotlight due to criticism regarding her parenting methods. The controversy arose when she shared a post on Instagram discussing her son Thiago's behavior, particularly his tendency to pinch when frustrated. This behavior reportedly led to him hurting his sister, Mia, prompting Atkinson to address the situation publicly. She explained that she was merely mimicking the action of pinching while reprimanding Thiago for his actions, not actually pinching him to teach him a lesson. The backlash intensified when parenting experts weighed in, accusing her of inappropriate discipline. In response, Atkinson took to her Instagram Story to clarify the misunderstanding, emphasizing that her post had not been deleted but was temporary, as Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours. She also corrected misinformation about her professional roles, stating she was not currently hosting a podcast or working on CBeebies. Atkinson's humorous approach to the situation included a light-hearted video where she mimicked her partner Gorka Marquez's potential reaction to the news. This playful response showcased her ability to handle criticism with humor while defending her parenting choices. Ultimately, the incident highlights the scrutiny public figures face regarding their parenting styles and the challenges of navigating social media's impact on personal life.