By: Jamie Updated: Aug. 21, 2015 Originally Published: Oct. 2, 2011
When it comes to preparing for parenthood, there’s an abundance of advice available—from books and websites to well-meaning strangers in the grocery store. But how many of these sources have actually experienced the chaos of welcoming twins into their lives? If you’re anticipating the arrival of two little ones, here are some practical and humorous tips to help you navigate this exciting journey.
- Time Management Training: Set two timers—one for 1 minute and 28 seconds and another for 1 minute and 47 seconds. Start both timers simultaneously and try to finish a task before the first one goes off. When the first timer beeps, drop everything, make a quick lap around your house, and hope to beat the second timer before the incessant beeping drives you mad. Reset and repeat this cycle all day.
- Pick Names Wisely: Choose your children’s names ahead of time, preferably before you’re on any pain medication. And while you’re at it, invite friends to visit you in the hospital—there’s nothing like laughter during those long 4 a.m. feedings. Just avoid rhyming names; trust me on this one.
- Budget Wisely: Stock up on gently used baby gear. The jokes about “buy one, get one free” will lose their charm once you start spending a fortune on two car seats that you’ll need to replace in no time. Consider signing up for Amazon Mom and take advantage of their Subscribe & Save for diapers—trust me, those bulky boxes won’t fit under your stroller. Have them delivered right to your door.
- Mastering the Double Stroller: Consider taking a course in commercial truck driving. Whether you choose a “front-to-back” stroller, where one baby reclines while the other sits upright, or a wider model, you’ll want a caution sign on your back for all the wide turns you’ll be making!
- Lean on Your Support System: Start cozying up to family and friends now; you’re going to need their help once the twins arrive. Schedule regular visits to give yourself a breather. Use that time to nap instead of catching up—friends can wait six months!
- Puppy Therapy: Spend an afternoon surrounded by puppies. Let them crawl all over you and embrace the chaos—it’s great practice for what’s to come! Afterward, go home, climb into bed, and allow those puppy smells to settle in; you’ll soon find they become second nature.
- Develop Your Sense of Humor: Start honing your comedic side now. Share your quirky experiences on social media—trust me, it helps to connect with others who are also up at 4 a.m. During those sleepless nights, knowing you’re not alone can be a lifesaver.
- Get Ready for Sleep Deprivation: Begin setting your alarm for every two hours now—it’s good prep! But really, there’s no way to fully prepare for the exhaustion ahead. Soak up every bit of sleep you can before the twins arrive; soon, it will be a distant memory.
- Prepare for Invasive Questions: Expect a barrage of personal inquiries from strangers, such as whether you plan to breastfeed and how you’ll manage feeding two infants simultaneously. A polite response to these prying questions is, “Why do you want to know?” It’s much nicer than saying, “It’s none of your business!”
- Test Your Friendships: See which friends you can be candid with and who you need to sugar-coat things for. I once had a friend wax poetic about the joy of parenthood, and I had to ask, “When does that joy kick in?” Spoiler alert: It gets easier every three months for the first two years, then every six months after that. I’m still eagerly awaiting the kindergarten milestone.
Best of luck on this thrilling adventure—you’re about to embark on one of life’s most rewarding challenges!
If you’re looking for more tips, check out our post on the 10 Reasons It’s Awesome Having Twins. Also, for those exploring at-home insemination options, consider visiting Make A Mom for reliable insemination kits. Additionally, Mount Sinai’s infertility resources are an excellent tool for anyone navigating pregnancy and home insemination.
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