The prospect of having two children under the age of two can be both exciting and daunting. If you just got the news, are anxious about 2 under 2, or just want to know what raising two kids under two in India looks like, this article is for you!
Breathe!
If you’ve just got the news from your partner that you’re gonna have two under two, breathe! Take a moment, sit with your partner, and consider all of your options. Here’s what we recommend:
- Obtain medical confirmation of the pregnancy – either through a blood test, or through a scan. This is vital for you to know and consider your options.
- Consult the ob-gyn and obtain their medical opinion on the impact of the pregnancy on the mother’s health and the effects it will have on her body. Generally, doctors advise a minimum gap of 12 moths between pregnancies from a maternal health perspective.
- You might be wondering, “How can I make this work?” The answer is simple – take it one day at a time. Trust yourself, and know that you’re braver than you think. Each day, you’ll grow a little braver, taking steps forward until you find a rhythm that works for your family.
- If you’re wondering what 2 under 2 may look like, keep reading.
Reassurance for Every Parent: You’ve Got This
- The journey of 2 Under 2 is a rollercoaster of good, bad, and ugly days. Yes, there will be chaos. Yes, it will he hard. Accept the unpredictability, relish the superhero moments, and learn to thrive in chaos. Some days, it’s okay to just have a good cry.
- Remember, everyone goes through fear and guilt; it’s part of the journey.
- Don’t overthink whether the situation was planned or not; focus on being present for your children.
- Develop witty comebacks to comments about having your hands full or the small age gap.
Build Your Support Village Early
- Assemble your support network before the arrival; having a ‘village’ is crucial.
- If you lack a physical village, make friends and connections to provide the assistance you’ll need.
- Seek medical advice from professionals rather than relying solely on online forums.
Celebrate
- Have a Babymoon! The second one is due in a few, and this is the best time to get some travel done!
- Have a baby-shower and do things differently! This is a great opportunity to have a baby-shower the way you guys wanted.
- Bond with your partner! The new one will come soon and chaos will follow – make the best of this time to bond with your partner some more.
Practical Tips for Parenting 2 Under 2
Don’t buy everything new
Resist the urge to buy everything new; repurpose and reuse whenever possible.
Car Seats
Invest in two car seats and consider a second high chair.
Kids Share Clothes
Don’t shy away from dressing your younger one in their sibling’s slightly oversized clothes. The gender doesn’t really matter, not when they are this small.
Double Strollers
Double strollers don’t really make sense unless you are regularly using a stroller for your current one. In India, stroller use cases are limited, and your elder one is likely gonna be comfortable in a carrier or walking on their own soon so we suggest skipping the double stroller.
Babyproofing
Toddler-proof your home and use baby gates strategically to protect both children.Check out our articles on childproofing a house, and certain DIY tips and tricks to baby proofing.
Laughter helps
Laughter is your secret weapon. When one child starts crying, it’s almost certain the other will join in. Instead of succumbing to stress, choose to find humour in the chaos. Laughing at the comical nature of the situation can be a game-changer.
Daycare
Consider keeping your oldest in daycare. This decision allows you to bond with your newborn without constant distractions. Yes, there might be some exposure to daycare germs, but it helps build a robust immune system.
Buy Multiples of Special Toys
Not all baby gear needs doubling, but invest in duplicates of cherished toys. It will save you from unnecessary battles, and the peace it brings is priceless.
Doctor’s Visits – One at a Time
Never, under any circumstance, take both kids to the doctor simultaneously, especially for wellness checks. It’s simply much easier to do it one kid at a time. Be kind to yourself.
Establish a Safe Space
Ensure a safe space to keep the baby out of reach of the toddler.
Sibling Preparation
If your oldest is too young to grasp the concept of a new sibling, don’t stress about prepping ahead of time. Focus on handling the dynamics once the baby arrives.
Remember, Your Oldest Is Still a Baby
While caring for an actual infant, be patient and understanding with your oldest. Big changes are happening, and their ability to articulate feelings is limited.
Avoid Comparisons
Resist the temptation to compare your children. Every child is unique, and parenting techniques that worked for the older one might not apply to the younger.
Navigating Relationship Challenges
- Recognize the strain this will cause on your marriage; stress, sleep deprivation, and baby-related issues can create distance. It will be harder than it was with your first one – you’ll have the elder one keeping you busy!
- Prioritize communication and staying present; feeling like roommates is normal, but you will need to work towards rekindling intimacy. It helps to keep this in mind.
- Understand it’s okay to let your baby cry a bit more, and take time to bond with the new one while someone else attends to the toddler. This can be a grandmother, a nanny, or even someone at the daycare.
A Rollercoaster Worth Riding
Life with two children close in age might be chaotic, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Take solace in the fact that every parent, at some point, has been scared and felt guilty. You’re not alone.
In the grand journey of parenting 2 Under 2, remember that each phase is temporary, and you’re equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Embrace the chaos, seek support, and savour the moments because, in the end, this phase too shall pass.