Lacey Chabert's Daughter Turns 10: Inside the 'Capybara Crafting' Party of the Year

Lacey Chabert is going all out for her daughter Julia's 10th birthday. The actress, who is currently starring in the new Hallmark+ series Paris Is Always a Good Idea, recently sat down for an exclusive PEOPLE in 10 interview. Chabert, 43, revealed that she and her daughter have dreamed up quite the fun theme for the tween's upcoming birthday party.

"We're very serious about planning her birthday parties, and we're really into DIY, so she and I both make the decorations usually," the Party of Five alum shared.

This year, she said, Julia is having "a capybara crafting party."

A Crafting Extravaganza

"Let me explain," Chabert continued with a smile. "We're doing lots of arts and crafts, which we have prepared. I mean, we are making bracelets, we are decorating canvas bags at a high level. And then, it's going to be capybara-themed because she's obsessed with capybaras."

Chabert went on to gush that Julia whom she welcomed with husband David Nehdar in September 2016, brings her "such joy." "She's the light of my life," the Mean Girls star added.

The capybara, the world's largest rodent native to South America, has become an internet sensation in recent years, beloved for its calm demeanor, expressive face, and social nature. For Julia, the animal's gentle, family-oriented personality clearly resonates, making it the perfect theme for a celebration with friends.

A Milestone Birthday

Ahead of Julia's milestone 10th birthday, Chabert reflected on the fact that her daughter is now the same age she was when she began working as a child actress on Broadway. "She was the age I was when I was performing in Les Misérables on Broadway," Chabert said during a July 30 appearance on Today with Jenna & Sheinelle.

The actress added that being a parent is "surreal," particularly when looking back at her own career. "It is surreal as a parent to see my daughter the same age," she said. "It's made me appreciate more how protective my parents were. Now I understand why they were so strict, too. I get it now."

At 10 years old, Chabert was already a seasoned performer, having appeared in Les Misérables on Broadway. Her career would soon skyrocket with her role as Claudia Salinger on Party of Five, which earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Golden Globe nomination. Reflecting on her own childhood, Chabert sees her daughter's carefree years as a gift, even as she prepares for the challenges of adolescence.

A Mother's Love

Just weeks after welcoming Julia back in 2016, Chabert opened up to PEOPLE about becoming a mom and the emotions she felt when she met her daughter for the first time after her birth.

"They laid Julia on my chest in the delivery room, and my heart completely melted. She was just so peaceful," she said at the time. "I instantly fell deeply in love with her," Chabert continued. "The pure joy of finally being able to see and kiss her sweet little face was a moment I'll treasure forever. She truly is a blessing from God."

Life on Set with Mom

Over the years, Julia has joined her mom on the set of some of her acting projects. Chabert told Home & Family in January 2020 that it was something she always dreamed of when she envisioned her motherhood journey.

"Even as a child, I dreamed of one day being a mom and being a working actor; there's not a day I'm not grateful for it," she said. "And to have my daughter on my lap and be there alongside and have these adventures with me is what my dreams have always been about."

Chabert has often shared glimpses of her life with Julia on social media, from sweet mother-daughter moments to behind-the-scenes photos from Hallmark sets. The bond between them is palpable, and Chabert has spoken about how her daughter has influenced her approach to work and life.

A Cautious Approach to Child Acting

As for whether she would allow her daughter to become a child actor, Chabert told Access Hollywood in a 2021 interview that it's unlikely until she is much older.

"It's definitely not something I would push, but if that turns out to be her passion later in life, then of course you better believe I'll do everything I could to help her," she explained. "But for now, she can just watch the movies."

Given her own experience of growing up in the spotlight, Chabert's approach is both protective and pragmatic. She has spoken about the challenges of child stardom and the importance of allowing Julia to have a normal childhood, filled with the simple joys of crafting, school, and spending time with friends.

What's Next for Chabert?

New episodes of Paris Is Always a Good Idea debut on Thursdays on Hallmark+. The show, which follows an American woman navigating life and love in the City of Light, has been warmly received by fans, and Chabert's performance has been praised for its warmth and comedic timing.

Beyond her Hallmark commitments, Chabert continues to explore new roles and projects, all while balancing her busy career with her role as a mother. Her ability to juggle both worlds has made her a role model for working parents everywhere.

A Birthday to Remember

Chabert's dedication to making Julia's birthday special is a testament to the joy she finds in motherhood. The capybara crafting party, with its DIY decorations and hands-on activities, reflects her commitment to creating meaningful experiences for her daughter.

For Julia, this milestone birthday will undoubtedly be a cherished memory, a celebration of childhood and the bond she shares with her mother. And for Chabert, it's a reminder of how far she's come from a young actress on Broadway to a devoted mom.

Lacey Chabert's plans for her daughter's 10th birthday are a reflection of her love, creativity, and dedication as a mother. As Julia grows older, Chabert continues to find joy in celebrating her milestones, even as she navigates the complexities of parenthood. For the actress, the simple act of planning a party with her daughter is a way to create lasting memories and share in the joys of childhood.