This will be an ongoing series about the unique challenges of raising multiple children.
I gave birth to twin boys 3 months ago and it's been fun, but non-stop action. I had read up on twin care beforehand, so I wasn't shocked, and I have some tips for you to help you prepare too.
First, don't panic!
I have several friends with twins or triplets and they were very helpful telling me what to expect. But everyone's experience varies.
Mine is different from the get-go because I'm a single parent with a 10-year-old who chose to expand her family. So automatically, that changes the dynamics.
If you're married and have a helpful spouse, that's definitely a plus! But if you're single or your spouse is the hands-off type, hang in there. You can raise your little tikes, still be a devoted parent to your older child and occasionally get some time to yourself too. You just have to be very organized! And try to line up some regular help.
Here are some tips from the book TWIN SENSE by Dagmara Scalise that can help us all.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
When you find out you're expecting twins, it's exciting and intimidating. Scalise tells parents that having twins isn't cheap... but it doesn't have to break the bank either if you think it through.
Buy diapers/wipes/formula in bulk. I saved half price by doing this and it's easy to order by phone or internet. Plus it saves you trying to organize a stressful trip to the store with newborn twins. Not many stores have grocery carts that seat two children. So then, you have to take a friend or family member along to push the second grocery cart with the second child in it. It's easier to just have the items shipped to your house.
Sign up for a flexible spending account or health savings plan at work. That way you can pay medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, which can save 3 to 10-percent. Every bit helps.
And make big purchases like cars with your twins in mind. Even if two more car seats will technically fit in a luxury or sporty vehicle, will all their equipment fit in the trunk? An SUV or van is likely your best bet.
Once you're set up with kid equipment and you've got a handle on the typical expenses, you'll breathe easier doing the child care. We'll talk about that in the weeks to come!
Happy Twin Parenting!
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