Jennifer Garner Admits There’s a ‘Little Bit of Loss’ in the Way She Parents Her 3 Kids After Split from Ben Affleck

In a recent interview, actress Jennifer Garner opened up about her approach to co-parenting with her ex-husband, Ben Affleck. During a conversation on Bustle’s podcast “One Nightstand,” Garner, who shares three children—Violet, 20, Seraphina, 17, and Samuel, 13—with Affleck, discussed the dynamics of raising their kids after their split.

Garner, aged 53, expressed that navigating parenting after their separation has required her to adopt a dual role. She remarked, “I think that I do a bit of both,” referring to how her responsibilities have changed with the division of their family. The actress highlighted the challenges of raising children in two separate households, explaining that she has to embody both parental figures in her home.

She elaborated on the necessity of blending parenting styles, stating, “You kind of can’t help it, right? Because you don’t have the benefit of both sides of the yin and yang being in the same house.” According to Garner, while there is a sense of loss in this arrangement, there are also valuable lessons to be learned. “There’s a little bit of loss in that, but there’s also something gained in that. You also just learn,” she noted, emphasising her ability to adapt to the evolving dynamics of their family life.

Garner and Affleck’s relationship reached its conclusion in 2015 after ten years of marriage, with their divorce finalised in 2018. Despite their separation, the former couple has maintained a supportive and cordial relationship in order to jointly raise their children.

Recently, Garner and her son Samuel were spotted together at the New York Stock Exchange, where they celebrated the launch of her organic baby food company, Once Upon a Farm, going public. Samuel, donning a navy suit, appeared to echo his father’s style, reinforcing the familial connection as he accompanied his mother on this significant day.

In January, the actress expressed her joy in seeing her children transition into their teenage and adult years, stating that this phase of parenting has necessitated a shift in her approach. “It’s more about parenting with a button on my mouth,” she said, acknowledging the importance of allowing her children to make their own choices as they grow older.

In a rare reflection on co-parenting, Affleck shared his pride in their children at a recent event. Speaking with Access Hollywood at the premiere of “Kiss of the Spider-Woman,” he praised Violet for her accomplishments, particularly after she recently testified at the United Nations. “I could not be more proud of my children. I can’t even tell you,” he affirmed. He added, “She takes after her mom. She’s spectacular,” highlighting Garner’s influence in their children’s lives.

Both Garner and Affleck seem to share mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s roles in their children’s lives. Affleck described Garner as a “great partner,” emphasising the importance of their collaborative parenting efforts. “It’s the joy of my life and I’m just very, very lucky,” he concluded, reflecting on his family with gratitude.

Overall, Garrett’s openness about her experiences shines a light on the complexities of co-parenting, revealing both its challenges and rewards. Through her candid reflections, she not only shares her personal journey but also offers insight into the shared commitment that both she and Affleck have for their children’s futures.