The Benefits of Choosing to Have Children Later in Life


Your job, love prospects, housing situation, traveling and maturity may be reasons you’ve decided to put off having children. But if you’re having doubts about whether it’s ok to become a mature parent, don’t. There are so many advantages to raising children after the age of 35.

Relaxing Style of Parenting

Women who experience motherhood past the age of 35 are sometimes referred to as having a “geriatric pregnancy.” Although this form of medical terminology may sound cute to some, the words can prove intimidating for those looking to have children later in life. In today’s world, being an older parent is no longer a rare occurrence, and the statistics for pregnancies over the age of 35 are climbing. As a young caregiver, you may be more prone to rearing your children by the book. But as you age, you are more self-assured. This makes it easier for older parents to adopt a more relaxing style of parenting. This stress-free environment also is more pleasing to your child over the years.

Financial Security

As you reach your mid-30s, you may find yourself with greater financial security. This could mean you own your own home where you can make upgrades such as interior renovations, or exterior improvements like new home siding that can increase the value of your home. You may also have a sizeable income that allows you to put away money into a savings account. Because children can be costly, the more money you have saved, the better you can support their needs as they grow. It can also allow one parent the luxury of being able to stay-at-home and raise the children.

Bearing Healthy Infants

Although there are researchers who solely list the potential health complications for having children later in life, they aren’t as prevalent as you would think. Per a recent study, over 76,000 older mothers followed had experienced 40 percent less congenital abnormalities. There are also a number of things mature women can do to encourage a healthy pregnancy after 35 such as eating a healthy diet, medical testing, vitamins and exercise.

Nurtured Solid Relationship

By the time you’ve reached the age of 30, many women have found a solid partner to share this nurturing experience with. Whether it’s going on a late night run to the store for ice cream or help you change diapers, pregnancy issues are typically easier to manage together as a couple when you’re older.

The Gift of Time

Raising children requires a lot of time and patience. But when you’re young, you may have a host of responsibilities that will take away time spent with your child. Whether you’re taking a break from your career or you’re past the age of partying, mature adults choose to devote a lot of time to their babies. Your child will also value the time you were involved in their school activities, sporting events and socialization.

More Life Experience

One of the biggest differences in being a young mom as opposed to someone past the age of 35 is life experience. Just having a series of life experiences underneath your belt allows you to cope better when having children. Because you’ve gone through a series of past experiences and life complexities, you’ll be more prepared to pass on wisdom, morals and values.

If you’ve postponed becoming a parent to focus on your career, relationship or traveling the globe, there are benefits to having children later in life. Obstacles are going to pop up as you navigate your way through your child rearing journey. But it’s the pleasure of being a parent that are sure to outweigh any difficulties.