The Advantages of Parenthood at 39: Embracing a Mature and Fulfilling Family Life

In a world where the narrative around the 'right time' to have children is rapidly evolving, choosing to have a baby at 39 presents a unique set of advantages. While society often heralds the virtues of early parenthood, later-life parents experience benefits worth considering. I am uniquely qualified to speak about both! I had my daughter when I was 20, and we had an unexpected little guy join us last year when I was 39. This article delves into the upsides of having a baby at 39, illuminating how this life choice can be fulfilling and advantageous for you and your child.

Emotional Maturity and Patience

One of the most significant benefits of having a baby at 39 is the emotional maturity and patience that comes with age. By this stage, individuals have typically undergone various life experiences, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and others. This emotional intelligence is invaluable in parenthood, as it equips parents to handle the complexities and challenges of raising a child with more remarkable composure and empathy. At 20, I was mature for my age but was still very impatient and honestly ignorant of how the world worked. At 39, I have lived through so much more, including raising another child. My 1st born got my energy, my 2nd receives the benefits of my life experience.

Financial Stability and Career Establishment

Another advantage is the likelihood of being more financially stable and having an established career. At 39, many individuals have spent years building their careers and are likely more secure financially than their younger selves. This stability can translate into a less stressful parenting environment, where financial concerns are less pressing, and more focus can be placed on the child's upbringing and needs.

With my first, I didn't have a degree and was working in a call center, so I quit my job and was a stay-at-home mom for six years. I loved being home with her, but we had no money and went into debt during this period while I was finishing my degree. This time around, we are in a completely different financial situation. I won't get to stay at home with him, but I also won't have the financial anxiety that I experienced when my daughter was little.

A Stronger Sense of Self and Purpose

By 39, most people have a well-developed sense of self and purpose. This self-awareness can be a tremendous asset in parenthood. Parents confident in their identity tend to raise children with higher self-esteem and a clearer sense of their identities. Additionally, having a child at this stage can bring a renewed sense of purpose and joy, enhancing the parent's overall life experience.

In my 20s, I worked through a lot of personal growth. My daughter benefited from seeing me go through the transition and saw how you can change your life. My son will have a mom who is starting from a different place. There will still be growth as I continue leveling up, but it will be from a more stable starting point.

Greater Appreciation of the Parenting Experience

Having a baby at 39 often means parents are more likely to appreciate the experience. The journey to parenthood, whether their first child or an addition to the family, is often met with a deeper level of gratitude and mindfulness. This attitude can lead to a more enriching parenting experience, where moments are cherished, and the child's development is deeply valued.

This time is so different from having a baby when I was 20. In our 20s, my husband and I survived; this time, we are different people. We have been together for over 20 years now, so things like communication are so much better. We can appreciate the little moments more this time around. We are also more equipped with the knowledge that we don't need to sweat the small stuff. We have the life experience and the experience of raising another child, which gives us the insight that little mistakes aren't the end of the world.

We are just so in awe of this little person. It's also really cool to see how our 19-year-old daughter interacts with her little brother.

Having a baby at 39 offers a myriad of benefits. From emotional maturity to financial stability and a strong sense of self to an appreciation for the parenting journey, these advantages contribute to a fulfilling and enriching experience for both the parent and the child. It's a testament to the idea that there's no one-size-fits-all timeline for life's milestones and that sometimes, waiting until later can bring unique and rewarding experiences.

Parenthood at any age is a journey filled with challenges and joys, and for those who choose to embark on this journey at 39, the path can be gratifying. The blend of maturity, stability, and wisdom that comes with age can create a nurturing and enriching environment, paving the way for a fulfilling family life.

As we navigate the beautiful and complex journey of parenthood, sharing experiences and insights becomes invaluable. If you found this article enlightening and wish to explore more such stories, tips, and parenting wisdom, I invite you to join our community. Sign up for my email list to receive regular updates, exclusive content, and a supportive space to discuss all aspects of parenting, no matter where you are in your journey. Let's embrace the adventure of parenthood together.