When it comes to parenting, many seasoned mothers will extol the benefits of having children close in age. “They’ll bond better the closer they are!” is a common sentiment. Some even suggest that a three-year gap is the ideal scenario. However, there are unspoken truths about the experience of being pregnant while raising a toddler that are rarely shared. If you’re considering expanding your family while managing a little one, take a moment to consider what lies ahead. Trust me, I’m currently navigating this journey myself.
You’ll Find Yourself Envious of First-Time Moms
As you chase after your energetic toddler, you may find yourself envious of first-time mothers who can indulge in a nap whenever they please. The freedom they have to rest at a moment’s notice will seem like a distant dream. You might feel the urge to shake them when they bemoan their quiet moments, wishing they could embrace the luxury of sleep and spontaneity while they still can.
Your Toddler Will Seem Psychic
Is it possible for your toddler to sense your fatigue? It certainly feels that way. Just when you think you can finally take a breather, your little one will demand your attention—whether it’s for a snack right after lunch or a potty break during your rare moment of relaxation. Yes, they know your limits and will test them relentlessly. Yet, on days when you’re well-rested, they may surprise you by playing independently without a peep.
Your Growing Belly Becomes a Playground
As your belly expands, it may become the newest attraction for your toddler. They may see it as a trampoline or a cozy pillow, oblivious to the fact that there’s a baby in there who isn’t fond of being treated like a jungle gym. You may find yourself hoping that your soon-to-arrive little one won’t bear the brunt of their sister’s enthusiastic exploration.
Sympathy is in Short Supply
While friends and family may shower you with sympathy for your pregnancy woes, your toddler will not be so understanding. Their demands will take precedence over your exhaustion. When they want a cookie, they want it immediately—no exceptions allowed. Your toddler operates under a strict “zero tolerance” policy when it comes to your needs.
This Pregnancy Will Feel Ten Times Tougher
You might hear that “every pregnancy is different,” but you’ll likely feel that this one is significantly more challenging than your first. It’s hard to tell if it’s due to the demands of your active toddler or some other factor, but one thing is certain—you’ll feel utterly drained.
Your Toddler Will Cling
Throughout your nine months, your toddler may become more attached than ever. Their awareness of the changes happening in your body will create a sense of insecurity. They might not understand that a new sibling is on the way, leading to clinginess that makes even simple tasks feel monumental. Sneaking away for a moment of peace? Forget it! Your toddler will always find you, and they may even impose boundaries on how much affection you can share with anyone else.
Regression is Inevitable
As the arrival of the new baby approaches, your toddler might regress in their behavior. Forgetting their potty training skills or demanding bottles again isn’t uncommon, and it can feel like a slap in the face when you thought you were past those stages. Prepare yourself for the possibility of two little ones in diapers, which can put a serious dent in your budget!
Tantrums Will Be Shared
There will be moments when it’s hard to tell who is the toddler and who is the adult. You both might find yourselves in tears—your toddler over a lost toy and you over sheer exhaustion. Hormones can turn the simplest situations into emotional rollercoasters, leading to a chaotic scene that requires a lot of patience from both parties.
“Having kids close together is a great idea,” they said.
Yes, this is the reality of parenting a toddler while pregnant. While there are some heartwarming moments, such as your toddler kissing your belly and talking to their future sibling, the journey is filled with challenges. You may find yourself yearning for a moment of peace, but this is the path you choose when you decide to grow your family close together.
For more insights on navigating parenthood, check out this blog post. If you’re considering at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers trusted kits to help boost your fertility. For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit CDC’s page.
In summary, while parenting a toddler during pregnancy can be incredibly exhausting, it also comes with its own unique joys and rewards. Embrace the chaos, and know you’re not alone in this wild journey.
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