Mariska Hargitay, best known for her iconic role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, is opening up about her journey into motherhood and why she’s thankful for becoming a mom later in life. In a heartfelt revelation, she admits that when she was younger, she wouldn’t have been as present for her children. Now, as a seasoned mother, she embraces every moment with gratitude.
In this article, we’ll explore why Mariska Hargitay believes that motherhood later in life is a blessing, how her perspective on parenting has evolved, and what lessons she has learned along the way.
The Journey to Motherhood: Mariska’s Story
Mariska Hargitay’s path to motherhood wasn’t conventional. She married actor Peter Hermann in 2004, and they welcomed their first child, August, in 2006. Later, the couple adopted two more children, Amaya and Andrew.
While many women become parents in their 20s or 30s, Mariska embraced motherhood in her 40s. Despite societal expectations, she found deep fulfillment in raising her children later in life.
Why Mariska Hargitay Is Grateful for Being an Older Mom
Hargitay has often expressed gratitude for becoming a mom when she did. But why does she believe it was the right timing for her?
1. More Life Experience, More Wisdom
By the time Mariska became a mother, she had already established herself in her career and personal life. This allowed her to approach parenting with greater wisdom and patience.
2. A Stronger Sense of Self
Many young parents struggle with identity while balancing their new role as caregivers. Mariska, however, had already built a strong sense of self, making her more confident and secure as a mother.
3. Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity
She acknowledges that as a younger parent, she might have been more distracted by work and personal ambitions. Now, she fully immerses herself in motherhood, making each moment count.
How Motherhood Changed Mariska’s Perspective
4. The Power of Presence
One of Mariska’s biggest takeaways is the importance of being present. In her younger years, she admits she might have been too caught up in the fast-paced world of Hollywood. Now, she consciously prioritizes time with her children.
5. Patience and Emotional Maturity
Older parents tend to have greater emotional resilience. Mariska has learned to handle tantrums, school struggles, and sibling rivalries with a level of patience she may not have had in her younger years.
6. The Joy of Slowing Down
Instead of rushing through life, she embraces the slower, more meaningful moments—bedtime stories, family dinners, and deep conversations with her kids.
The Challenges of Being an Older Mom
While Mariska finds joy in being an older mom, it’s not without challenges.
7. Keeping Up With Energetic Kids
Parenting young children requires energy, and sometimes, she finds it exhausting. However, she balances this by staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
8. Facing Societal Stigma
Society often pressures women to have children at a certain age. Mariska, however, challenges these outdated norms by proving that age doesn’t define a great parent.
9. Planning for the Future
As an older mom, she’s mindful of ensuring her children have financial and emotional security as they grow up.
Mariska’s Parenting Philosophy: Lessons for Other Moms
Mariska has learned some key lessons that she believes all parents—regardless of age—can benefit from:
10. Love Unconditionally
She believes in fostering a home full of love, where her children feel safe and supported.
11. Embrace Imperfection
There’s no such thing as a perfect parent. She encourages other moms to let go of guilt and enjoy the journey.
12. Listen More, Talk Less
One of her biggest parenting strategies is actively listening to her kids, ensuring they feel heard and valued.
Balancing Motherhood and Career
13. Prioritizing Family Time
Despite her demanding acting career, she ensures family time is non-negotiable.
14. Leading by Example
She teaches her kids important values by showing, not just telling—whether it’s kindness, resilience, or dedication.
15. Finding Joy in Both Worlds
Mariska believes that loving her career doesn’t mean she loves her children any less. Instead, she shows them that passion and family can coexist.
Final Thoughts
Mariska Hargitay’s motherhood journey proves that there’s no “right” time to become a parent—only the right time for you. She’s found joy, gratitude, and fulfillment in being an older mom, showing that love and presence matter more than age.
For any moms wondering if they’re “too old” to start a family—Mariska’s story is a reminder that motherhood is about connection, not a ticking clock.
