Melania Trump shared rare insight into her ultra-private son Barron Trump’s childhood, revealing that he was particularly close with his late grandmother, Amalija Knavs, before she passed away in January 2024.
The First Lady recalled to USA Today that Barron and Amalija’s bond was “magical” and that she was like a second mother to him when he was growing up in the White House.
“My mother was the epitome of love and warmth, and for Barron, a grandmother who filled every moment with joy and wisdom,” she said. “Every story she read to Barron sparked his imagination, and every game they played strengthened their bond. Her delicious meals were more than just food; they were a celebration of togetherness.”
Melania added that the pair would often speak in Amalija’s native Slovenian, forging an even closer relationship. “She made sure that Barron felt a strong connection to his Slovenian roots by sharing books and stories from our childhood. By preparing traditional Slovenian dishes, my mother filled our home with delicious aromas but also connected Barron to his heritage.”
Melania was born in Sevnica, Slovenia, in 1970, and became a US citizen in 2006 after marrying Donald Trump. She then brought her parents over from the European country as Donald’s political career was ramping up, and they became US citizens in 2018.
“I would often hear [Barron and Amalija’s] laughter and personally felt their joy, knowing they were creating unforgettable memories together,” she added. “Their connection was so magical. And I loved watching it.”
© Davidoff Studios PhotographyMelania concluded by sharing her advice for young mothers, pointing to her own parenting philosophy with Barron. “Shower your children with love and support and always communicate openly,” she suggested.
Learn more about Barron’s childhood below…
“See them as their own unique individuals, not merely as extensions of yourself. Encourage them to explore their passions and respect their choices, honoring their decision to declare ‘yes’ and ‘no.'” Amalija left a lasting impact on the Trump family, and her death in January 2024 at the age of 78 was a blow to Barron in particular.
Donald shared a tribute to his late mother-in-law at a caucus in Iowa in the same month, and joked that she was responsible for Barron’s 6-foot-7 stature.
© The Washington Post“That’s how he got so tall – he only ate her food,” Donald quipped, before adding: “I just want to say, Amalija, you are special. You are one of the most special people I’ve ever known.”
© Getty Images“[Her death] was a tough period of time for the family, but she’s amazing, she was amazing. So, I just want to thank what she’s done for our family and her husband…Great people, great parents to all of us, really great parents but also to Barron,” he finished.
Barron is currently studying at NYU’s Stern School of Business and prefers to keep a low profile in comparison to his siblings, including Donald Jr., Eric, Ivanka and Tiffany Trump. He received praise for helping win over younger voters during his father’s 2024 presidential campaign by setting him up to be interviewed by famous podcasters and social media stars.
Read the full article here
