Additional Coverage:
- Katherine Schwarzenegger says she hired a coach to teach her how to step-parent Chris Pratt’s son (businessinsider.com)
Katherine Schwarzenegger, author and wife of actor Chris Pratt, recently opened up about the challenges and rewards of stepparenting. In a candid conversation on the “Parenting & You with Dr.
Shefali” podcast, Schwarzenegger revealed that she proactively sought guidance from a stepparenting coach before marrying Pratt. This decision, she explained, proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of her role in Pratt’s son Jack’s life.
Schwarzenegger emphasized the often ambiguous nature of stepparenting, a role she described as falling somewhere between parent, nanny, and assistant, yet distinct from each. “It’s a confusing thing to navigate where you fit in,” she admitted.
She stressed the importance of recognizing that every blended family dynamic is unique, and prioritizing the child’s needs above all else. She also praised the successful co-parenting relationship she and Pratt share with Jack’s mother, Anna Faris, and Faris’s husband.
Pratt, also present for the podcast, likened the often-unseen efforts of stepparents to the work of motion-capture actors. He highlighted the importance of providing structure and accountability, even when the contributions of stepparents go unacknowledged. He emphasized that this “thankless” work is nonetheless crucial for the child’s well-being.
Schwarzenegger’s comments come amidst a growing conversation about the realities of blended families, with other celebrities like Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow also sharing their experiences.