Tips for Parenting Twins
http://www.articleorange.com/articles/68/1/Tips-for-Parenting-Twins/Page1.html
Shannon Kietzman
I am a teacher and an author who has written hundreds of articles for the Internet, as well as ad copy, standardized test questions, ebooks, and "real" books. Learn more at http://www.shannonkietzman.com. By Shannon Kietzman
Published on 08/26/2006
A few simple tips for parents expecting twins from a mother who has been there and lived through it.
Tips for Parenting Twins
As the mother of twin four year old boys, I know how exciting yet frightening it is to discover you have two new babies on the way rather than just one. Relax! It can be a bumpy ride, but it is still a great one. Here are a few tips to help get you through.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
If you are a first time parent, having twins will be even more nerve wrecking. Although it is easier said than done, you need to learn to not sweat the small stuff. It is ok if your twins are not dressed in adorable little outfits every single day. Your time is better spent bonding with your two little bundles of joy than making sure their outfits are always perfectly clean or that they are perfectly coordinated.
Build the Twin Bond
Most experts agree that it is best to keep twins in the same crib together for at least the first couple of months of their lives. After all, they just spent the last several months snuggled closely together in the womb. So, go ahead and buy two cribs for later, but let them stay close to one another in one crib for a little while.
Give them Their Own Identity
Although many parents of twins enjoy dressing their twins the same, I believe it is best to allow them to have their own identities. I never dressed my twins exactly the same, though I do sometimes coordinate their outfits. For example, they might both where an outfit with the same cartoon character or the outfit might be the same design but in different colors.
I know another mother of twins who always dressed her twins the same and she regrets it now for two reasons. First, her twins seem to have a harder time separating themselves from one another and developing their own personalities. Second, her twins throw fits if they are not dressed the same – which can be a real pain if one outfit gets ruined.
Make Time for Each Other
When you have twins, particularly when they are still infants, it can be difficult to find time to be with your spouse. Your whole world seems to revolve around these two little lives you have created. Although twins are a joy, they can be quite stressful at times too! Make sure to find time for each other in order to reconnect and keep the affection flowing in order to prevent placing strain on the relationship. You and your twins will be happy you did.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
If you are a first time parent, having twins will be even more nerve wrecking. Although it is easier said than done, you need to learn to not sweat the small stuff. It is ok if your twins are not dressed in adorable little outfits every single day. Your time is better spent bonding with your two little bundles of joy than making sure their outfits are always perfectly clean or that they are perfectly coordinated.
Build the Twin Bond
Most experts agree that it is best to keep twins in the same crib together for at least the first couple of months of their lives. After all, they just spent the last several months snuggled closely together in the womb. So, go ahead and buy two cribs for later, but let them stay close to one another in one crib for a little while.
Give them Their Own Identity
Although many parents of twins enjoy dressing their twins the same, I believe it is best to allow them to have their own identities. I never dressed my twins exactly the same, though I do sometimes coordinate their outfits. For example, they might both where an outfit with the same cartoon character or the outfit might be the same design but in different colors.
I know another mother of twins who always dressed her twins the same and she regrets it now for two reasons. First, her twins seem to have a harder time separating themselves from one another and developing their own personalities. Second, her twins throw fits if they are not dressed the same – which can be a real pain if one outfit gets ruined.
Make Time for Each Other
When you have twins, particularly when they are still infants, it can be difficult to find time to be with your spouse. Your whole world seems to revolve around these two little lives you have created. Although twins are a joy, they can be quite stressful at times too! Make sure to find time for each other in order to reconnect and keep the affection flowing in order to prevent placing strain on the relationship. You and your twins will be happy you did.