Jennifer Garner Opens Up About the Challenges of Parenting Her and Ben Affleck’s Children

While Jennifer Garner shines brightly in Hollywood, her foremost focus remains her family. The renowned actress, known for her role in “13 Going on 30,” prioritizes her three children, Violet (18), Seraphina (15), and Samuel (11), whom she shares with ex-husband Ben Affleck. In a recent interview, Jennifer candidly discussed the challenges of allowing her kids to navigate their own paths.

Reflecting on her upbringing, she acknowledged the struggle of withholding parental guidance, saying, “I mean, my parents did too, and I’m so amazed by that. I have a really hard time not saying, ‘This is what I see you as,’ and ‘I think you should.’” Garner emphasized her need to restrain her impulses, admitting, “I really have to sit on my hands.”

Despite these challenges, the “Last Thing He Told Me” actress expressed immense pride in her children’s growth, remarking, “I’m just watching them in this new phase of life where they’re figuring out who they’re going to be and what they’re going to study. And I’m so interested in them.” She concluded, “All the time, I’m interested in everything about them.”

Jennifer Garner shares details about her new Apple TV+ series “The Last Thing He Told Me,” reveals how she keeps social media away from her teen kids without their resentment, talks about her love for cooking, and more! pic.twitter.com/2Cyc00ewXK

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As Violet prepares for the next chapter of her life in college, Jennifer Garner couldn’t be prouder, as she shared in a separate interview in November 2023. During an appearance on Live With Kelly and Mark, the devoted mother commended her eldest daughter for her resilience in handling the pressures of college preparation.

Acknowledging the mix of excitement and stress that comes with such transitions, Jennifer remarked, “[Violet’s] handling it like a champ and she’s totally in charge. She’s a self starter. … I’m proud of her no matter what.”

Following their parents’ separation, Jennifer and Ben’s children adjusted to new family dynamics as both parents moved forward with their respective partners. While Jennifer is now in a relationship with John Miller, Ben has tied the knot with Jennifer Lopez. Despite their divorce in 2018, the couple has maintained an amicable co-parenting relationship.

The Affleck children have seamlessly integrated into their blended family, seen bonding with both their mother and stepmother. They’ve also formed close bonds with J. Lo’s children, Max and Emme, from her previous marriage with Marc Anthony. Whether it’s simple outings or globetrotting adventures, Violet, Seraphina, and Samuel have embraced their blended family life with grace and adaptability.