Parenthood is the most joyful and rewarding experience one can go through in life. Yet, it can be quite a handful, especially when you have twins and must do everything by yourself. The “double the joy, double the work” idiom is quite literally applied when it comes to twins.
In fact, if you have to manage infant twins by yourself, you probably have an idea of how much work is involved. From feeding and changing to burping and soothing, all the typical baby care tasks are here—only for two.
We know firsthand how difficult it is to manage infant twins when you’re by yourself. It’s like being a one-person band struggling to keep up with the demands of two tiny humans. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
We’ve got some super handy and practical tips on how to manage twins that will help you out. Not only will you learn how to stay organized, but you’ll also ensure you’re taking the best possible care of yourself. So, if you’re managing infant twins alone and could use some advice, read on, mama!
How to Manage Infant Twins When You’re Alone
Whether you’re in the process of thinking about having twins or are already a parent of twins, we’ve got something for you!
We’ve compiled seven awesome tips on how to manage infant twins alone. Whether you have newborns or twins that are a little older, these super practical tips are things you can start applying today. Let’s get into it!
1. Create a Consistent Routine
One of the easiest and most practical ways to manage infant twins alone is to create a consistent daily routine.
Twins thrive on having a regular schedule, and this also applies to their parents. Having a routine means your days are more predictable.
Whether it’s naptime or feeding times, a fixed schedule will ensure everything is planned out. Routines are great at reducing stress and making your life with twins much more manageable.
Having a fixed schedule will allow you to manage your time better and ensure you’re also planning for your needs.
How to implement it:
Sync their feedings to make sure you’re not constantly running around feeding them at different times.
Create a schedule for naps and try to maintain it during the day.
Plan your daily routine so that you have some time for yourself.
Related: What Your Baby’s Birth Weight Tells You
2. Use Baby Gear to Your Advantage
As we mentioned earlier, there are many super convenient baby products that can make managing twins so much easier. Whether it’s a special stroller or carriers, there are so many things that can work to your advantage.
Baby gear will allow you to keep your hands free for other activities while also keeping your babies close to you.
How to implement it:
Double stroller: Invest in a side-by-side or tandem double stroller so you can easily move around with your twins.
Tandem baby carrier: Use a carrier that allows you to wear your twins simultaneously to make moving around easier.
Double bassinets: Get a bassinet with two separate sleep spaces so you can easily access both babies without moving too much.
3. Take Turns Feeding (If Possible)
Feeding twins can be quite a challenge, yet it’s definitely possible to feed your twins at the same time. While breastfeeding twins simultaneously can be difficult, bottle-feeding is a bit easier as you can prep both bottles in advance.
Why it works:
Feeding your twins one at a time allows both babies to get your undivided attention during feeding time, and it helps avoid feeling overly stressed.
How to implement it:
Breastfeeding: Use a twin nursing pillow to breastfeed both twins simultaneously. Alternatively, nurse one and put the other for a nap.
Bottle-feeding: Prep the bottles in advance, so you have both ready at feeding time. You can also use a bottle holder to prop one bottle while feeding the other.
Feed the babies one at a time if you can’t feed both simultaneously.
Related: How to Get Your Baby to Accept a Bottle
4. Ask for Help (When You Can)
Asking for help can be difficult, but you don’t always have to do everything on your own. Whether it’s your partner, close friends, or family members, it’s important to let someone help when they offer. Accepting help when you need it is one of the most important things you can do as a parent—especially with twins.
A little help, even if it’s only for an hour or two, goes a long way. It will help you feel less stressed, especially if your helper is willing to take care of the babies for a while.
How to implement it:
Family and friends: Accept help from family and friends when they offer. This could be anything from doing chores to preparing meals.
Baby nurse/doula: If you can afford it, consider hiring a baby nurse or doula to help with the twins. They can offer advice and assist with household chores.
Ask friends or family to watch your twins for a couple of hours if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
5. Take Advantage of Baby’s Sleep Time
Taking advantage of sleep time is one of the best strategies for managing infant twins. When both babies are asleep, you get a free hand to do other things. Twins, just like other babies, require a lot of sleep, and you can take advantage of this time.
Your babies’ sleep time is the best opportunity to rest, catch your breath, do chores, or simply take a break.
How to implement it:
Rest while they rest: Use naptime to take some time for yourself. You can nap or simply rest with your eyes closed.
Plan your to-do list: Use this time to take care of chores or other necessary tasks. However, don’t overload yourself—only focus on tasks you can handle.
Self-care: Sleep time can also be used for self-care. Take a shower, grab a snack, or simply rest.
Related:8 Natural Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mom and Baby
6. Accept the Chaos
Managing twin babies can be tough, and even with all of the planning and preparation, it’s impossible to avoid chaos and mess. Things will inevitably go wrong, both babies will cry at the same time, and you’ll probably have some bad days. But as long as your babies are fed, changed, and loved, there’s no need to worry.
Why it works:
Accepting the mess means that you won’t let small issues bother you too much. After all, having twins is bound to be chaotic and messy.
How to implement it:
Let go of perfectionism: Perfection doesn’t exist when it comes to managing twins. Just because you had a bad day doesn’t mean you’re a bad mom. There will always be new days and opportunities.
Reset expectations: Don’t aim for perfection, aim for progress. Celebrate small wins, and give yourself credit for getting through the day.
Related:10 Things Kids Secretly Observe from Their Parents
7. Stay Organized (Use a Planner)
As we mentioned, twins can be quite a handful—especially when you have to do it all by yourself. It’s very easy to lose track of everything you need to do, and some things will always fall by the wayside.
One of the best and most practical ways to manage infant twins is to stay organized. You can either opt for a digital planner or simply create a weekly schedule in a notebook.
Why it works:
Staying organized will help you plan things in advance and take care of your own needs as well.
How to implement it:
Create a schedule: Create a daily schedule that includes all activities and routines for your twins. This way, you’ll have an overview of all necessary tasks.
Track: Use a tracker for each of your babies to keep track of feedings, naps, and diaper changes.
Set reminders: Set reminders on your phone for key events, appointments, or activities that require your attention.
Final Thoughts
Raising twins by yourself can be a real challenge, but it’s not impossible. With the right tips and tricks, managing infant twins can become more manageable. Like with other babies, staying organized is key to success.
Make sure you’re using one of the above strategies to stay ahead of the game, especially if you’re managing twins alone. It may be tough at times, but you’ve got this!
Do you have any parenting tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments below!
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