Well. Somehow, I’m a mother of eight month old twins. Plus a two and a half year old. This shit is tiring! But the babies are mostly sleeping through the night and I’m beginning to feel more like a human being. A human being that prefers to be ensconced in my bed by 9pm, let’s be clear. Twin life!
Regarding the challenges of raising infant twins, I’m not even sure where to start, but I do love a good list, so I’ll begin there. I’ve discovered some helpful hacks that enable me to get through the day with my children reasonably well cared for and my sanity intact:
At three months, and seven months
Let. People. Help. You.
Yes, everyone says this to new parents. But with twins, I highly suggest internalizing this as thoroughly as possible. Make a list of tasks, errands, etc. that you can outsource if people ask how they can help. Create a shared access spreadsheet if you are into that. And if overnight help is at all a possibility, prioritize that over other types of help. Our overnight postpartum doula (if you are in Seattle, Emerald City Doulas is fantastic) was a godsend during the sleepless hell of newborn twin parenthood. Many doulas will allow contributions towards a package of hours, if you have family members or friends who want to share the cost with you.
Our eyes don’t match
Baby Wipes Clean Everything
I’ve used them on myself (makeup removal and post workout wipedown because lord knows I don’t have to time to exercise AND shower on any given day), kitchen counters, and baby spit up on carpet, to name a few. Biodegradable options help cut down on the environmental impact inherent to raising multiple offspring.
Be Flexible With Timing and Location
Juggling the needs of multiple kiddos is tricky. Sometimes I end up feeding the toddler in the kitchen while diapering and PJing the twins on the floor nearby. The idea of a bedtime bath is very sweet, but for us, also painfully impractical: we do baths whenever I can fit them in. Perform tasks whenever and wherever seems to best make shit work.
Chowing down
Cute Baby Outfits Are (Mostly) Overrated
It can be really fun to dress up babies, especially twins. But despite what you may see on Instagram, I’ve found that adorable, multi component gettups usually just aren’t worth the effort. Zippered one piece pajamas are your friend.
Pretty Adorable
Make Your Home Your Sanctuary
You probably won’t be leaving the house as much as you would pre twins, or with one baby. Expect a bit of stir craziness and embrace opportunities to leave when you can, but make your home as comfortable and enjoyable as possible for the days when you’ll be stuck inside at the mercy of weather, sleep schedules, illness, or just plain exhaustion. Stock up on your favorite snacks and drinks in bulk, treat yourself to comfortable, washable clothing that you love, splurge on, or find used, cozy furniture. We picked up a used elliptical trainer so that I can sneak in some exercise here and there to keep sane, which has been extremely helpful.