Parenting is a constantly evolving journey. Children grow, change, and bring new joys and challenges at every stage of life — even when they become adults. Actress Kate Hudson recently opened up about how parenting continues to surprise her as her eldest son, Ryder, steps into adulthood.
Ryder’s Growth — And a Surprising Realization
At 44, Hudson told PEOPLE that she was only “a couple of years older” than Ryder is now when she first became a mother.
“That’s been the wild discovery for me. I just can’t believe I was only a couple of years older than him when I decided to have a child,” she shared.
Growing Up Together
In a previous interview with The Sunday Times (November 2022), Hudson reflected on how raising Ryder shaped her own life.
The Almost Famous star — who is also mom to Bingham (12) and Rani (5) — explained:
“I’m definitely more present as a mother now that I’m older. With Ryder, our relationship is so special because I grew up with him.”
She added that her own transition into adulthood happened right alongside her parenting journey:
“The significant learning phase of my life and my journey into womanhood coincided with my experience as a mother. Raising kids is not easy — you do your best and hope they make good decisions.”
Watching Your Child Become an Adult
Hudson also touched on how quickly time passes when raising children:
“I was just fully present while raising him, and then suddenly — they spread their wings and they’re adults!”
She reflected in PEOPLE:
“You look back and think, ‘Wow, I can’t believe it.’”
Navigating Distance
Today, Ryder is thriving. He’s attending New York University, alongside Deacon Phillippe (son of Reese Witherspoon). Hudson shared that Ryder is doing great — happy, independent, and loving life.
“As a mother, what more could you wish for?” she said.
But she admits one thing is tough:
“I wish he lived a little closer,” Hudson confessed. “But seeing him out in the world, growing and creating his life — that’s incredibly rewarding. Our bond is strong, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Missing the Little Moments
In a 2022 interview with TODAY, Hudson candidly spoke about the bittersweet emotions of parenting an adult child:
“It’s incredibly tough. All a parent wants is for their child to thrive and be happy. But when I’m in LA and I don’t hear his voice at the coffee machine in the morning — it’s truly heart-wrenching.”
Parenting Never Ends
Kate Hudson’s story is a reminder that the emotional journey of parenthood doesn’t end when your child grows up. It evolves — and sometimes, it tugs at the heart even more.
Her reflections resonate with many parents learning to let go while still holding love close.
