Welcoming a baby is life-changing, but discovering you’re expecting twins? That's a completely different level of excitement and nervousness. 

As thrilling as it is, parenting twins presents unique challenges, both physically and emotionally. Beyond the logistics of feeding and bathing two babies at once, twins often have an incredibly close bond with intertwined identities. Just when you think you’ve figured out one child’s needs, the second may surprise you with a totally different temperament. It’s a balancing act that leaves many parents wondering, “How will we ever survive this?”

It's normal to feel like you're in over your head, but you’re not alone—many twin parents have survived the journey, and so can you.

 

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10 Practical Tips To Handle Twins

Here is some great advice for navigating the wonderful journey of raising twins—approved by parents of twins!

 

1. Stick to a schedule—It’s a lifesaver

To manage twins, it's imperative to maintain a schedule! If one wakes up, consider waking the other as well. If one eats, feed the other! First few months are usually exhausting and sleep is scarce. Sticking to a routine can help you stay organised and sane. Some parents use a dry-erase board in the nursery to track feedings and diaper changes. If you prefer a tech-savvy approach, baby apps or gadgets can help you track everything from feedings to milestones, making parenting twin life a little easier.

 

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2. Be prepared for less sleeping time

Sleep is crucial, but with twins, it’s hard to come by. You may think you need a full eight hours to function, but parents of twins can operate well even after getting less sleep time. Some lucky parents might have twins who sleep in sync, but often, their schedules are all over the place. You'll likely be up every few hours for breastfeeding, changing diapers, or when they are colic. You may definitely feel exhausted and your brain may feel foggy, but you’ll be surprised at how much you can still function on just a few hours of rest.

 

3. Yes, you’ll need to double everything—but it’s not all bad

Parents of twins face unique challenges, such as needing to double up on nearly everything. While other parents can reuse items for future siblings, twin parents need two of everything right from the start. However, having duplicates can be advantageous as the twins grow. For example, if one forgets their maths book at school, they can simply share it with their sibling. Having two of everything can ultimately save the day.

 

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4. Expect chaos: they’ll do things to keep you on your toes

Twins, in general, have an undeniable connection with each other. Twins can nap at the same time, but they end up on completely different schedules. But as they grow, they start imitating each other's every move, which can be both heartwarming and challenging. It's great when you need them to follow you, but when one does something they shouldn't, like sticking fingers up their nose, the other will probably join right in. Be prepared to redirect one as soon as you see the other engaging in something you'd rather they avoid!

 

5. Prepare meals in advance 

When you have twins, feeding them can be quite a challenge. It's important to be well-prepared and have a good strategy in place. Whether you choose to breastfeed, bottle feed, or a combination of both, managing simultaneous feedings will make your life easier. To start, make sure you have a comfortable setup. You'll need a nursing pillow, bottles, and burp cloths, and don't forget to have a snack for yourself within reach. You might also consider using a bottle holder to assist in feeding one baby while you tend to the other.

 

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6. In case of identical twin—know who is who

If you’ve got twins who look like mirror images, it’s crucial to find clever ways to tell them apart in the beginning. Try different outfits or use colour-coded wristbands to make it easier to tell the difference. Some parents even use small accessories like hair clips or tiny bracelets. And don’t underestimate the power of their unique little quirks—one might have a favourite way to snuggle or a distinct little cry. Develop your little tricks—maybe one has a tiny birthmark or a distinct way of moving. As they grow, their quirks and preferences will make it easier to tell them apart, turning the “who’s who” game into a fun part of your daily routine!

 

7. Expect endless comments from strangers

Your twins will quickly become the stars of every room they enter, drawing a crowd of curious onlookers. Be prepared for a flood of comments and questions from well-meaning strangers—think “double trouble,” “you’ve got your hands full,” and the ever-popular “Who is older?” “How do you manage to breastfeed both?" “Did you use IVF?” and “Are they identical?” Such intrusive questions can get a bit overwhelming, but it’s all part of the twin parenting experience. 

When it comes to dealing with the flood of comments from strangers, a good strategy is to stay prepared. Keep your responses light— a friendly smile and a simple, “Yes, they sure keep us busy.”

 

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8. Get a dog to help with cleanup

Having a dog can be incredibly helpful when it comes to managing the messes that come with having twins. With two little ones, it's common to find crumbs and sticky substances all over the place. It can feel overwhelming to have to vacuum and mop every day to keep up with the cleaning. Moreover, having a dog can also be a wonderful way to introduce your kids to the joys of having a pet. 

 

9. Seek help in sharing household duties

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your spouse, parents, or even grandparents, as having an extra set of hands can make a world of difference. Divide the tasks with your spouse to prevent burnout. One can handle nighttime feedings while the other takes care of diaper changes, or alternate days to give each other some much-needed rest. Grandparents and extended family can be invaluable, especially in the early weeks. They can help with practical tasks like cooking, cleaning, or even taking the babies for a walk to give you a break.

 

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10. Connect with other twin parents

Navigating life with twins can be overwhelming, but finding a community of fellow twin parents can make a world of difference. Building connections with people who truly understand the challenges of raising two babies at once is invaluable. Seek out twin communities, whether online or in person, and join local parenting groups. These connections can offer practical advice, and emotional support, and share resources like meal trains or baby gear swaps. Most importantly, fellow twin parents get what you’re going through and can offer empathy and encouragement that only someone in the same boat can provide.

 

Steering life with twins is an exhilarating whirlwind of joy, challenges, and unique experiences. From managing sleep deprivation to handling double the messes and fielding endless questions from strangers, it’s a journey filled with both trials and triumphs. Embracing the chaos, seeking and offering help, and connecting with a supportive network of fellow twin parents can make all the difference. By finding your rhythm, sharing responsibilities, and seeking out resources and advice, you’ll not only survive the twin parenting adventure but thrive in it.

 

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