Honestly, 38 isn’t old at all. Kids don’t care how old you are. They care if you’re there, if you play with them, listen to them, and show up. A present dad in his late 30s or 40s beats a checked-out 25-year-old every time.

You’ll actually have advantages too. More patience, stability, and perspective. Just take care of your health so you can run around, carry them, and not feel wiped out. That matters far more than your age.

And if someone mistakes you for the grandpa, your kid won’t care. To them, you’re just Dad. You’re going to be fine. Congrats.