Stacey Solomon has opened up about an impending family milestone that she describes as "really sad," confessing she anticipates crying throughout the day when her eldest son celebrates his 18th birthday later this month. The television personality, 36, shared this emotional update while reflecting on her children's recent World Book Day celebrations and her own experiences as a first-time mother at just 17 years old.
World Book Day Highlights and Family Dynamics
In a recent social media post, Stacey offered followers a glimpse into her family's World Book Day festivities. Her younger children embraced the occasion with enthusiasm: six-year-old Rex dressed as the Diary of a Wimpy Kid, four-year-old Rose donned a Matilda outfit, and three-year-old Belle transformed into Little Red Riding Hood. However, Stacey noted that her two eldest sons, Leighton, 13, and Zachary, 17, did not participate in the annual event.
Zachary's Upcoming 18th Birthday
The absence of her older children from the celebrations comes as Zachary prepares for a significant personal milestone. Stacey admitted during an interview with Scott Mills on BBC Radio 2 that her son's transition into adulthood will be an emotional affair for the entire family. "Zach is going to be 18 this month. I've got an 18 year old, I know, it actually makes me really sad. I think I'm going to cry all day on his birthday," she revealed.
She reflected on the passage of time, recalling, "I've got a fully-grown adult human son. When I did the X Factor he was one...he was one! Seventeen years ago." This poignant moment underscores the rapid growth of her children and the bittersweet nature of parenting.
Reflections on Teenage Motherhood
Stacey has frequently discussed her experience of becoming a mother as a teenager. In a touching Mother's Day post from 2023, she admitted she "barely remembers life" before motherhood. She wrote about the challenges she faced, noting, "I've been a mum since I was 17 years old. I do remember all of the looks I'd get and all of the things that people would say when they saw a 'child raising a child'."
Despite early judgments, Stacey expressed immense pride in her family, stating, "I can't believe I am now a mummy of five. And all I can say is, not one of those judgments or opinions back then were true. No matter how real they felt I look at each of them now and I have never felt so proud." She went on to praise her children, calling them "my little pickles" and emphasizing the privilege of raising them.
Family Structure and Recent Getaways
Stacey shares her three youngest children—Rex, Rose, and Belle—with husband Joe Swash, whom she met on the set of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! Zachary and Leighton are from previous relationships. Additionally, Stacey is a stepmother to Joe's 18-year-old son Harry, from his previous relationship with Emma Sophocleous.
Recently, the family enjoyed a skiing holiday in Switzerland during the half-term break, joined by Stacey's sister Jemma, Joe's mother Kitty, and his brother. Stacey described feeling "so emotional" about the trip, sharing a picturesque image of the sunrise over the mountains with her 6.1 million Instagram followers. She wrote, "Seeing this makes me feel emotional. It doesn't even look real out here."
During the holiday, Stacey participated in her "favourite run" with Leighton, Rex, and her brother, expressing gratitude for the experience. She humorously noted that Leighton was "too cool" for photos with her, sharing, "A rare picture with Leighton, who is far too cool for me now." She also praised Zachary's bravery for taking an off-piste jumping lesson and commended Belle's skiing skills, adding, "This actually makes me so emotional. Belle, you did so well this year. I can't believe I get to do this with you at this age. What a super privilege."
As Zachary's 18th birthday approaches, Stacey Solomon's heartfelt reflections highlight the joys and challenges of motherhood, blending nostalgia with pride as her family navigates this emotional milestone together.
