One crying, fussy baby who seems allergic to shuteye is bad enough. With two, it’s awfully tempting to switch from mocktails to cocktails. But having twins doesn’t have to mean double trouble.
Christina Boyle and Cathleen Stahl, both mothers of twins, are the authors of Twin Set: Moms of Multiples Share Survive & Thrive Secrets. Below are their tips from the trenches of twinhood:
Family dinner: Feeding the little guys simultaneously, whether via breast or bottle, can help sync their napping and nighttime sleeping schedules. As for logistics, perch the babies in bouncy or Boppy seats to make yourself a lean, mean, feeding machine.
Top of the line: Invest in a hospital-grade super double pump.
Super saver: Although they don’t advertise it, many companies, especially the big chains, offer twin discounts. Just ask.
M.D. 2.0: Find a pediatrician who can accommodate twins, meaning one who is familiar with the special developmental issues they face…and one whose office has a front door wide enough for your double stroller.
Cast of thousands: Line up as much help as possible for the first few weeks. This allows you to sleep and take mini mental health breaks.
Diaper duty: One big challenge is deciding where to put the “other” baby. With younger infants, use one crib or bassinet and take an assembly-line approach to changing. A portable basket stocked with diapers, wipes, ointment and a pad is a good option once babies grow older.
Visit twinsetmoms.com.
Very true! Makes a cahnge to see someone spell it out like that.
July 10th, 2011 at 2:25 pm