Jennifer Garner, beloved for her role in 13 Going on 30, has opened up about how working with child actors has helped her become a better mom. The 53-year-old actress, who is mother to three children with her ex-husband Ben Affleck, shared insights into how on-screen experiences translate to parenting off-screen.
Learning from Kids on Set
During an appearance on Kylie Kelce's Not Gonna Lie podcast, Garner revealed that working with children of all ages—toddlers, teenagers, and young adults—has provided her with perspective as a parent. “I love the intimacy of that relationship,” she said. “They help give me perspective on myself as a parent and allow me to practice ways I can take that home and do a better job.”
Practicing Parenting Skills
Garner explained that her interactions with young actors are more than just work—they are practice for real-life parenting. She described it as “practicing the relationship, even practicing the friction of it,” which has taught her patience, empathy, and adaptability. These lessons, she noted, contribute to her becoming a better mom every day.
Parenting Her Own Kids
The actress shares daughters Seraphina, 17, and Violet, 20, and son Samuel, 13, with Ben Affleck. Over the years, she has learned to be more mindful about communication with her children. “I’ve learned to be quiet with my kids and not spill every detail,” she said. This restraint has helped her strengthen her bond with her children and practice being a better mom.
Valuable Lessons on Parenthood
Garner emphasized that working with children professionally has reinforced the importance of patience and presence. She noted that kids naturally reach a stage where parents don’t need to explain everything. This realization, she says, has been crucial in helping her grow into a better mom and navigate the challenges of raising teenagers and young adults.
Impact of On-Screen Experiences
Whether she’s forming friendships with toddlers on set or connecting with teenagers in her projects, Garner finds these experiences directly influence her parenting style. By observing behavior, managing conflicts, and guiding young actors, she practices skills that make her a more attentive, understanding, and better mom at home.
Key Takeaways
- Jennifer Garner credits working with child actors for helping her become a better mom.
- Her on-set experiences allow her to practice patience, empathy, and problem-solving.
- Garner has learned to communicate thoughtfully and know when to step back with her own kids.
- Interactions with young actors provide insight into different stages of child development.
- Practicing relationships on set has a direct impact on her parenting style and helps her grow as a better mom.
