How to Manage Infant Twins

Congratulations ... you're having twins. It is truly a double blessing but it is more difficult than a singleton. As a twin mother I can safely tell you that you will get through it...be prepared for lots of smiles and diapers!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Birth ... your babies have been born and hopefully not premature. You can expect to go home within 2 days for a vaginal birth and 5 days for a c-section. While you are at the hospital try to limit visitors; sleep as much as you can; get as much coaching from nurses, Leche Ladies, and staff to help you learn the tricks of swaddling, diapering, feeding and bathing.

2. Home from the hospital ... Hospitals will not let you leave unless you have approved car seats and that they are properly installed in your car. The first week at home is the hardest ... your babies may be on different sleep schedules and require different formulas. Try to sleep whenever they sleep to catch up on your rest.

3. Help ... you'll need it. Be practical and ask for help, family and friends can be put on a schedule to help ease the burden. If your finances allow it, hire a baby nurse for a week or two to transition the infants to a good sleep schedule. Consider food shopping on line and having your groceries delivered.

4. Supplies...Shop in bulk to save money and time. Many pharmacy chains have baby clubs that give you extra discounts on diapers, formulas and other necessary item. Try to find a store that deliveries. Ask friends and family to cut coupons for you. Make up a list of your most used items and distribute it to family and friends and ask them to pick them up when they see them on sale.

5. Nurturing your twins...It is really hard to have two crying infants demanding food, dry bottoms and attention. Try to maintain your cool...babies have an interesting way of picking up on your body language...remember you can only do your best. Talk to your babies...language development starts from day one. Spend as much time as you can holding them, and playing with them. Make the floor your friend! Stretch out on the floor with them...let them lie close to each other and watch them interact with each other.

6. Infants to Toddlers...Once your babies can sit up get that exer-saucer out of its box. Place them so that the twins can see each other and marvel how they babble at each other. Twins have their own built in playmate. Nurture that relationship and you will have many happy days ahead. Enjoy them ... having multiples is very special but the time goes 2x as fast!