Mayim Bialik, the Big Bang Theory star who is to divorce from husband Michael Stone, says the split has nothing to do with her left-field parenting techniques. The couple, who have two children together, cite "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for wanting to end their nine year marriage.

Mayim, who previously starred in Blossom, assured fans on her website that the divorce had nothing to do with her parenting style. "The hands-on style of parenting we practice played no role in the changes that led to this decision," she said, adding, "relationships are complicated no matter what style of parenting you choose. The main priority for us now is to make the transition to two loving homes as smooth and painless as possible. Our sons deserve parents committed to their growth and health and that's what we are focusing on." Bialik explained her "hands-on style of parenting" in her book Beyond the Sling: A Real-Life Guide to Raising Confident, Loving Children the Attachment Parenting Way. In it, she spoke of following the Attachment Parenting method originally coined by Dr William Sears, a U.S paediatrician. The unconventional technique involves potty training with diapers and wearing a baby in a sling to ensure they remain physically close to their parent's body. At the time of publication, the Los Angeles-based actress told Newsok.com, "When we treat our children kindly and expect love and give love, we hopefully are raising children that then expect that and give that to the world around them. It is very consistent with a 'green' style of parenting." Despite being a well-paid actress, Bialik and her husband lived in a one-bedroom house and encouraged their children to sleep in the same bed. There was also no playroom as neither parent believed in supplying their children with expensive toys. 

Bialik, who achieved her PhD in neuroscience in 2008, plays Dr Amy Fowler - the "female equivalent" of Sheldon Cooper - on The Big Bang Theory. She hit the headlines in August after injuring herself in a Los Angeles car crash. For a time it was rumored she would lose a thumb as a result of the incident.