Shakira is raising her sons to be ''modern'' men.

The Colombian singer, who has Milan, two, and three-month-old Sasha with partner Gerard Piqué, admits she is a lot stricter than the FC Barcelona player, 28.

Discussing how she is trying to teach their boys to respect women and take care of themselves, the UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador said: ''Growing up with a working mom is a start. I also think their dad is a good example of a modern man to emulate. Gerard and I pretty much share all parenting responsibilities, although I'm definitely the disciplinarian.''

But the 38-year-old singer is still very affectionate.

She told the April 2015 issue of Parents Latina magazine: ''Their dad and I both grew up in very close-knit families, and that has made us openly affectionate parents.''

Asked which language bi-lingual Milan is picking up faster, she said: ''I would have to say Spanish, since I'm the one he spends the most time with and it's my first language. I talk to him as much as possible - it serves as bonding time and helps his language comprehension skills.''

The 'Hips Don't Lie' hitmaker has enjoyed taking some time off to be with her family, but still plans to continue making music.

She said: ''Becoming a mom forced me to re-prioritise and make room for the things that are most important, while recognising that there are things I can let go of and the world won't crumble around me.

''I apply the same amount of dedication to being a mom as I do to my music - I guess you could say music was my first baby.''