If you have 2 kids under the age of 2 years old, this post is for you! I’m a mama to two girls who are 19 months apart and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t!
Let’s be honest, those first few months were hard and we had a lot of tantrums and meltdowns in the beginning. My toddler realized she wasn’t the only baby anymore and had to learn to become more independent. My attention and focus was split in half between 2 girls who needed me in different ways.
Here’s all of my best tips and advice for navigating 2 kids under 2!
Baby Wearing Will Be Your Best Friend
There will be days when your newborn wants to be held and you have things to do, putting them in a wrap will help you out! Sometimes babies just want to hear your heartbeat or be close to you which is perfectly normal. This will give you a chance to be hands-free.
Also, if your baby doesn’t want to nap, put them in the carrier, you’ll be surprised how fast they go to sleep in there. My favorite baby wrap for newborns is from Solly Baby, this was on my newborn must haves list! And my favorite carrier for bigger babies is this Tula carrier, check it out here.
Snacks, Snacks, & More Snacks
If you have a toddler, you know that snacks are a must! Snacks help them shift their focus and give them a chance to refuel and eat something they enjoy. I’ve learned to always have snacks on-hand, pack them in your diaper bag and in your car. Bring them with you when you run errands with your little ones, and even bring them with you on play dates.
One way to switch it up if you’re about to nurse your newborn and need to entertain your toddler for a bit, is to get an ice cube tray and fill it up with a variety of treats. It will keep them occupied and you will get a chance to have a quiet moment with your little one.
Get Outside
When days are tough and it seems like both of my girls are having a hard day, I like to get out of the house for some fresh air and sunshine. We live in Colorado and love the outdoors so we try to get outside as often as possible. Most days we go to the park or take a walk around the neighborhood.
Or if you’re wanting to just play outside, you can’t go wrong with bubbles and sidewalk chalk. A little bit of vitamin D will put everyone in a better mood!
Give Your Toddler A Chance To Help Out
I’ve tried many different approaches to avoid toddler tantrums and jealousy. And one way that has been a game changer for us is to give my 2 year old Sophia a chance to help out. I give her chances throughout the day to assist with responsibilities around the house.
She loves to help out with her little sister the most, like getting her diaper or putting her pacifier back in her mouth. Sophia also likes to throw things away in the trash, help me put clothes in the dryer, and feeding our cats. I also do my best to recognize good behavior and give her positive praise! 2 year olds are inconsolable at times — trust me I know!
But if you can have a little bit of patience with your oldest and just give them a chance to feel useful and valued, it can make a difference!
Cherish These Moments
Remember that everything is a phase! Since you’ve already been through it with your first kid, you know how fast it goes by and that everything is a phase! It will get better and easier with a little bit of time. Cherish these moments while they’re little because one day you’ll be looking back at pictures and wishing you were back in this moment in time!
I remember when I found out I was pregnant again when my oldest was only 10 months old and… being in complete shock. I knew there were going to be tough days ahead. And yes, we’ve had some really difficult days of sickness, teething pain, food allergies, and no sleep. Having 2 under 2 has been a fun and wild adventure and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
