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Q: Dealing with two?

Posted Thursday, June 28, 2007 11:23 AM

Q: Baby #2 is on the way! How will I manage to split my attention between two small children?

A: Caring for one baby can certainly be a full-time job, but don't worry -- two kids doesn't necessarily mean double the work. Remember, your children will give each other attention too, even lifting a bit of the load from you at times. Let your older tot "help out" with the new baby (holding the diaper at changing time, helping with feedings), and they'll both get to be the center of attention.

Lots of repeat moms worry that they won't love the second child as much, or be able to offer as much attention, but fears are usually short-lived. Each baby is a totally different person, and will find their own special spot in the family.

More concerned with logistics? Invest in a good double stroller, interview babysitters, and work out a plan with your partner. Need more advice? Check out this tip from fellow user, goodhartedmommy:

"Get a really good sling or carrier. That way you can tend to both at the same time. Really, it's just second nature. You can read all the tips in the world, but once you're in the situation, it will come right to you naturally and you'll do great!"

> Have a good tip? Leave a comment below!

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Posted by Erin W
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Comments

re: Q: Dealing With Two?

I have to say, the first few weeks of dealing with two were very difficult.  DS at 2.5 yo really wanted to get a reaction from DD (newborn) and the only way he learned to do that was to make her cry.  It took two months of coaching to get him to be gentle enough for me to have them in the same room.  And my first few weeks of screaming "No!" and giving timeouts every time he hurt her did nothing to help him; he liked the reaction.  Consistent praise for gentle touches and "big brother presents" after a good week were key.

Now that DD is 5 months old, things are much easier.  I can leave them alone in a room together while I go to the bathroom.  I can put DD in a sling and go adventuring with my son- she loves to watch him doing swimming lessons or jumping around at the park; he can really make her smile.

Posted by wakeham    Saturday, September 29, 2007 2:51 AM


re: Q: Dealing with two?

I struggle everyday dealing with 2, but I think I have finally found my rhythm!  My 2 DD are exactly 54 weeks apart.  So when my youngest was a newborn, my oldest was just learning to walk and becoming more independent.  But at the same time she was more demanding of my attention because she is SO active!  So dividing my attention and giving my youngest the attention she deserved(s) is sometimes very difficult.   I try to give each of them some special Mommy time each day...even if it's just 15 minutes alone.  It took me almost 1 year to get in a groove with the 2 of them!

Now they are 2 and just about 1 and finally play together, eat together, and are really becoming sisters!  It's so much fun to watch & experience.  I sometimes wonder though if twins would be easier!  ha ha ha!!  At least they are on the same pace!!

Posted by CheerCoach9948    Tuesday, July 08, 2008 8:34 AM


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