How to Prepare for Two Children Under Two
Discovering that you are pregnant when you already have a little one can come as a shock if it was something you were not planning. Having two children under two may not have figured in your original plans, and it may all seem quite overwhelming right now. Finding out your pregnancy test is positive may have left your mind reeling, and you may be wondering how you will cope with a newborn and a toddler. But once you have processed the news, you are sure to start feeling excited.
While it may be hard work now, in the future, there are many benefits of having two children that are close in age. In the meantime, here are some tips to help you prepare to be a parent of two children under two:
Rest Whenever You Need
Being pregnant when you have a little one to look after can be both physically and mentally exhausting. Trying to take care of a toddler and deal with morning sickness can be incredibly challenging. If you are struggling to deal with the extreme exhaustion of pregnancy and running around after a toddler, you may be looking for ways to try and manage your pregnancy symptoms and make it easier to care for your tot.
Morning sickness can be harder to handle when you feel tired, so finding ways to ease your exhaustion is crucial. If you have a family member that can babysit, then asking them to step in to let you get some rest can be helpful. Taking the opportunity to sleep each time your toddler has a nap is also a good idea and will help you catch up on some much-needed rest.
Start Preparing Early
A first pregnancy can often feel like it lasts longer than nine months. However, when you are pregnant the second time around and busy taking care of them, it can feel like your pregnancy whizzes past. As the time passes so quickly, it is good to start getting prepared for your new baby’s arrival as soon as possible. As your pregnancy progresses, you will feel more tired and have less energy. But knowing that you already have everything prepared can make you feel a lot more in control and take a weight off your mind.
Get Equipped
Getting all the baby equipment, clothing, and toys ready for your new baby is exciting and something to look forward to. Starting by digging out all your toddler’s baby clothes, washing them, and preparing them for your new arrival is a great way to start getting prepared for your baby. While you will probably have plenty of clothes and toys that can be used for your little one, there are some additional items you will need to purchase.
One item that will need to be at the top of your shopping list is a double stroller. Your stroller is something you will use a lot, so it is worth getting one that offers a range of features to make your life easier and ensure your two little ones are comfortable when out and about. When choosing a side-by-side double stroller, it is vital to select one that is suitable from birth and can comfortably accommodate two children of different ages. As this is one of your most essential purchases, it is a good idea to get your double pushchair ordered early to ensure it is delivered to you before your new baby is born.
Organize the Logistics
As well as looking after yourself and getting equipped for your second baby, it is also crucial to arrange the logistics of expecting a new arrival. Organizing someone to look after your toddler while you attend ob-gyn appointments and birthing classes is crucial, but it is also vital to have a family member or close friend on stand-by to babysit in the run-up to the birth. Arranging a babysitter now will prevent any last-minute panic if you go into labor early and need to rush to the hospital.
If you plan to have a c-section delivery, you will also need to ask for some help with your two little ones after the birth. After your surgery, it is unlikely that you will be able to drive for a while, and heavy-lifting could also be a problem while your scar is still trying to heal, so picking your toddler up may be a no-no. Try not to put pressure on yourself during this time, and allow yourself to recover and enjoy your two little ones.
