Katherine Heigl praises Josh's parenting

Apr 27, 2010, 9:31 GMT

Katherine Heigl says husband Josh Kelley is a "spectacular" father.

The couple adopted 17-month-old Naleigh last year and the actress is completely in awe of how fantastic the singer is with their little girl.

She said: "He's spectacular. I couldn't have even imagined a better father for her. She's the luckiest little kid. We call him Disneyland Dad because as soon as he comes in, it's fun and happiness and rides around the room on his shoulders. He's attentive and involved. I never for a minute would question leaving her."

Katherine left Josh in charge of Naleigh as she attended the 13th Annual ASPCA's Bergh Ball in New York last night (26.04.10) and knew the tot was in good hands.

She said: "This is the first time I've actually left her in six months, so it's a little weird for me, but I knew she was in really good hands because Josh is fantastic with diapers, food, nap-time, playtime. He's got it all."

Since becoming a mother seven months ago, Katherine - who recently quit her role on US TV show 'Grey's Anatomy' to focus on her family - has become more in tune with her emotions as all she wants to do is protect her daughter.

She told America's OK! magazine: "Watching any film or television that deals with a mother and child story is so gut-wrenching in a way I could have never predicted. You have this empathy suddenly, this compassion for a mother going through anything difficult or complicated with a child because suddenly I understand that unbelievable drive and instinct to protect. Protect, make them happy, shelter them, give them everything they need in life to be happy. That was a weird feeling. I was like, 'That's a lot of pressure.' "