The choice to raise children in New York City seems undesirable for many parents. Afterall, how do parents instill core values and family unity in a city where individuality is encouraged and where quality time is defined by family phone plans and e-mail?

Alex McCord & Simon van Kempen , "The Real Housewives of New York City" cast members and parents of two, give parents tips on how to balance a busy career and family, as well as relationship advice for married couples.

"Growing up with the reality of New York versus the dream of it widens everything, especially for children," says Alex.  "We're surrounded by museums, parks, art galleries, high fashion and restaurants with food from every culture.  But the best thing about growing up in New York City is having some level of understanding of different people, which is difficult to acquire in most of the country, or world for that matter.  New York's got materialism, but also humanism.  Between the both of us, Simon and I have lived in London, Milan, Paris, Sydney, Chicago, and several other places; and without a doubt raising a family in New York is the best of them all."

Best known for Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City," both Alex and husband Simon van Kempen are featured as the show's stylish, jet-setting young New York parents raising two small children in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, New York City.  The couple was admired for their close relationship and dedication to their family. 

"Both Simon and I believe a strong family is one that supports and nourishes each other," says Alex. "It was a contemplative decision to participate in the show - to put our lives in front of cameras for everyone to watch and judge.  Why did we do it?  We know a lot of young parents and understand the issues of raising a family in the city.  Yes, people didn't agree with some of our parenting skills aired on the show but there were many more things people applauded us for.  We want to be good role models for our children and lead by example - and if we can provide some sort of positive outlook and education for families similar to ours, then it is all worth it."

From family unity to communication, Alex & Simon share their insight on how to build a successful family system:

Find What Works for Your Family - Be Present:
As much as we'd like to think so, there are no one-size-fits-all answers to the questions that come up when raising children.  Keep your eyes open and be emotionally present so that it is easier to see what you need to do, day to day.

Happy Parents are Better Parents:
Parenting is a tough job, and all parents find themselves multi-tasking, many struggling for balance between work and family.  Communicate with your spouse; sometimes it's important to remember that you two were there first. In a family that is parented by a happily married duo, parenting can be a shared experience with the emphasis on the children and their demands as opposed to spending too much time keeping their relationship on track. A happy marriage seems to set the tone in the house.

Consistency:
In these trying times, it's vital to maintain a united parental front.  These days there are many distractions and we find that sometimes it's very tempting to let things slide whether it be discipline, bedtimes or dinner menus.  Never forget that children expect consistency; it is reassuring to them and sets up your household for smooth running.

Decision Making:
A very important thing for families to teach their children is how to make good decisions. If they have watched their parents making well, thought out decisions over the years, they will tend to be good decision makers themselves.