Nicole Richie says motherhood is "the best".

Nicole Richie adores being a parent and says she has learned a lot about herself since having children.

The 'Candidly Nicole' star claims raising daughter Harlow, six, and son Sparrow, four, with husband Joel Madden has taught her about her "real" self and loves being a role model for the youngsters.

She said: "It teaches you a lot about yourself and about patience and about coming from a place of love and constant compassion.

"Having kids gives you the opportunity to be the real you. I love being a mother and being an example to my kids.

"It's fun - you get to relive your childhood all over again."

While Joel and the children don't appear on her new reality show, Nicole loves the fact her sister Sofia, 15, and singer dad Lionel are regulars on 'Candidly Nicole'.

She told Closer magazine: "Joel isn't on the show - I'd never force him! The only members of my family on it are my dad and my sister.

"My dad can't get enough of it! My sister is super-cute and will probably be an entertainer, so she needs to get used to being on camera."

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