Raising Twins

From LoveToKnow Kids

Raising twins is a challenge. Parents and caregivers are faced with a lot of choices, such as how to tell them apart, sleeping arrangements, and budgeting finances. Several strategies can be used for each situation.

Telling Them Apart

Identical twins can be a lot harder to tell apart than fraternal twins. Parents can use a variety of strategies to tell the difference between their newborns, such as dressing one in a specific color, leaving on hospital bracelets, painting a toe nail, or identifying a distinguishing characteristic like a birth mark or mole. As they get older, parents can use strategies, such as different hair styles or comparing personality traits.

Sleeping Arrangements

When putting an infant to sleep, he or she should always be placed on his or her back in order to reduce the risk of SIDS. Parents can choose to have their twins sleep in the same crib or sleep in separate cribs. As they get older, they will eventually need their own bed, and it is important to try to stick to a schedule that includes a regular nap or bedtime. Also, parents must weigh the pros and cons of two single beds or bunk beds for older children. On the one hand, two single beds can take up a lot of floor space and some parents might choose bunk beds for older children in order to minimize used space. On the other hand, some parents might prefer their children to sleep in two single beds. Drawers or storage boxes can be placed underneath the single beds in order to maximize the space used.

Feeding

There are several options available to feed newborn twins, such as formula, breastfeeding, or pumping. Some mothers choose to use formula. The advantage to using formula is that other family members will be able to assist with the feedings. Some mothers choose to breastfeed their twins, and the advantage to breastfeeding is that the twins can be nursed together. Tandem nursing is when each twin nurses on one breast simultaneously. Another available option is to pump breast milk. The advantage to pumping breast milk is that it can be stored and used at a later time, so working mothers, for example, can still use breastmilk to feed their twins if they choose to.

Keeping a Schedule

Try to keep as many routines as possible. For example, try to stick to a feeding schedule or bath time schedule. Plan errands around the schedule if possible. Schedules will help make a hectic day run as smooth as possible.

Sharing

Use the five minute rule with older children. When children start to fight over a toy, tell the children they will each have five minutes to play with the toy. Then set the timer. One child can play with the toy for the first five minutes, and another child can play with the toy for the second five minutes. If they continue fighting, put the toy away until they can agree to share.

Spending Time Together

Plan an activity and alternate the days each parent spends with each child. For example, mothers can combine an excercise regime into quality time spent with each child. Take turns bringing each child on an afternoon bike ride.

Promoting Early Literacy

Read to children at all ages. As they get older, play educational games with children. Teach children how to spell and recognize their name.

Savings Account

Raising twins can be costly. Start a savings account for each child. Five dollars a week can add up to several thousands dollars by the time each child reaches eighteen. Starting a savings account early can ease the burden of large expenses, such as car insurance or tuition as the children get older.

Raising Twins Summary

Parents have a lot to consider when raising twins. They must decide on ways to budget everything from time and money to storage space. Parents must choose what works best for their situation and family.