The first months with a newborn are never easy, but parents with twins and multiples face some additional logistical hurdles. Breastfeeding twins is entirely possible — and some say easier than bottle-feeding two little guys at once — but it is more of a production than feeding a singleton. Everything, from getting your babies to sleep and nappying, to buying new clothes takes twice the effort with twins, compared to just one baby. On the bright side twins provide double opportunity for love and they have each other for added company and comfort. Last but not least any parent of twins will tell you that they do eventually grow out of infancy. Tips from seasoned parents of twins include prioritising, not being shy about asking for extra help, and letting go of any ambitions you might have to vacuum or cook much in the first three months.
BabyCenter Australia®
"Tips For Raising Multiples"
"The most important thing in the early days is to establish a routine. Although this is important for any baby, having two makes it a major priority. Once you have a routine stick to it vigorously. — or yourself — when stress starts to build, plan ahead and line up additional help for after the birth."
…read the full article
iVillage
"Twins: Eight survival strategies for new parents"
"Most families need regular outside help with twins during the first year. Set this up ahead of time if you can. You can get help from people you trust and get along with, such as [friends, relatives, or hired help]. And you might be able to trade services with friends. Remember outside help doesn’t always have to cost money. Call your county health and social services departments and ask what in-home services are available for families with new babies. (Programs differ from county to county.)" …read the full article
Better Health
"Sleep Problems- More Than One Baby"
"It can be a challenge to get just one baby to sleep. When there is more than one, babies will often take turns in crying and playing all night long. This can quickly exhaust their parents. Getting babies to sleep at night is a common problem for a parent of twins, triplets, quads or more. " …read the full article
Raising Children Network
"Raising Twins And Multiples"
"Within families of multiple birth children, older siblings can often feel displaced when twins or triplets arrive, especially if their relationship with their parent was particularly close before the arrival. Encourage older children to be involved in the preparations for a multiple birth whilst making time for their needs and interests. Ensure that friends, relatives and visitors remember than an older brother or sister is very special too." …read the full article
Dr. Sears
"Breastfeeding Twins"
"Your babies will have distinct feeding personalities. One is probably bigger than the other, and one may want to nurse more often than the other. As the babies become more adept at latching on it will be easier to nurse them at the same time, at least for some feedings. (Feeding on both breasts at the same time will really boost your prolactin levels.) At times, you may want to encourage the less-demanding baby, or the one who is not very hungry yet, to nurse at the same time as his sibling, especially at night so that you can get some rest. There will be other times when you want to give each baby individual attention at the breast." …read the full article
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Babble Australia
“Seeing Double”
