Paulo Avelino believes the best way to raise children is neither through overly permissive parenting nor harsh discipline, but by striking a balance between kindness and authority.

The actor shared his parenting philosophy during the opening of his new business venture Play Space, a new indoor playground at Ayala Malls Vermosa where he serves as marketing director. The family-oriented venture was born from a shared vision among Avelino and his business partners to create a space where children can enjoy active, screen-free play.

Asked whether he leans toward gentle parenting or a more traditional approach, Avelino said children thrive when parents combine empathy with consistency.

“I think it should be half and half,” he said. “Kids nowadays are very bright. They have everything on the Internet — they know what’s good, what’s wrong.”

He added that while children should be encouraged to express themselves, they also need to recognize boundaries and respect parental guidance.

“Minsan sa mga bata, they should know authority para ma-distinguish nila kung may sinabi ka, alam nila na tama ba ’yung gagawin (Sometimes children need to understand authority so they can recognize when guidance should be followed),” he explained.

Avelino stressed that being firm does not mean resorting to fear or physical punishment.

“Gentle parenting is always the way, but at the same time hindi naman ’yung traditional parenting na pinapalo, sinasaktan ’yung bata (Gentle parenting is always the way, but not the kind of traditional parenting where children are hit or hurt). But… just be firm para alam nila sino ’yung authority (Just be firm so they know who the authority figure is),” he said.

His views on parenting reflect the mission behind Play Space, which was inspired by his own childhood. Avelino recalled growing up playing video games and exploring his mother’s computer, but said he wanted today’s children to have more opportunities to build friendships and create memories beyond digital screens.

The idea for the business began about two years ago during a casual Discord conversation with friends who eventually became his business partners. What started as a late-night discussion evolved into a family recreation hub designed to encourage imagination, movement and social interaction.

Play Space features a seven-level indoor playground for children aged one to 12, complete with giant slides, obstacle courses, a ball pit, pretend-play zones and activity areas that help develop sensory and motor skills. It also houses a 150-square-meter function room for birthday parties, family celebrations and community events.

For Avelino, the venture is a way to encourage families to spend quality time together while giving children a safe place to learn through play.