"I had my second one at 38, and it's such a different experience than 26. I much prefer it this time around because I feel more settled and mentally present. With the first one, we were just running around, figuring stuff out together. We could match energies. Now, I just outsmart her (play offense, not defense). Both were/are fun. They're my partners - I love doing things with them in different capacities. But I'm worried about the future. The 18-year-old likes to hang out late and kick it. At 43, I can pull it off. Once I'm in my 50s, I don't have high hopes."
"I had mine at 41 and 43. They are the highlight of our lives. I am 67 now, and we are a close family. I would have been a terrible parent in my 20s. They really do keep me young at heart."
"I adopted my youngest at 35. It's been wonderful. The problem is 50-year-old me has less energy for a teenager than 35-year-old me thought I would. Menopause sucks. I consider myself blessed, though."
Parents who have children after 35 report stronger emotional readiness, more patience, and deeper appreciation for parenting moments. Many describe feeling settled, mentally present, and able to savor time with children, calling them life highlights and partners in activities. Challenges include reduced physical energy during teenage years, menopause effects, and worries about being older as children grow. Social misunderstandings such as being mistaken for a grandparent are common. Experiences vary based on activity level, sleep habits, and whether the child was adopted, with many parents calling themselves blessed despite practical and future concerns.
Read at BuzzFeed
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