The Miracle – and Challenges – of Multiples

Twins, triplets or more – wow! It’s hard enough being the new parent of one baby. Imagine doubling, tripling or even quadrupling that. Here’s a look at some of the more daunting challenges of taking care of multiple babies.

Help!

Parents of multiples need help in the first few weeks at home with their new babies and in the months beyond. You may not be accustomed to asking for help; you may not even want to – but trust the majority of parents of multiples when they say, “You’ll need help.” Don’t know where to begin? Consider these options: 

• You can often request unpaid help from church groups, Girl Scout troops, high school childcare programs or even quality babysitting classes. While you may not be able to leave your babies alone with younger helpers, they are wonderful to have on hand to hold the babies, help with feedings or play with them. You can also ask them to do other chores for you, including grocery shopping, doing the laundry, or even starting dinner while you spend time with your babies.

• When friends offer to help, don’t refuse them. They wouldn’t offer if they really didn’t want to. Enlist them for help in folding laundry, cooking meals in advance, or staying with the babies so you can head out for errands or some much-needed “alone time.” Even just inviting a friend over for an afternoon can be helpful, since this will mean an extra set of hands around for the babies and a confidante who can provide a listening ear and support.

• If you can afford it, consider hiring help. Local childcare agencies can provide an experienced caregiver for however long you need one during the day or even living in your home.