Sunday, June 6, 2010

Tips on making life easier!

As Moms of Multiples, we learn so much along the way. Things that will help us cut down on the time spent cleaning, bathing, cleaning, traveling, cleaning, getting out of the house, cleaning, feeding, & did I mention cleaning?

These are tricks of the trade that us MoMs decided to pass along to those in the midst of figuring out what life w/ multiples is going to be like.

Submitted by Mona S.
I learned this one from my wonderful MIL who had 4 kids under 6. I cut almost all of the twins' food such as meat, pizza, with a scissors (the ones from the dollar store work great). It takes half the time as using a knife. I even carry two in my purse for when we go out to eat. My husband cuts up the food for one twin and I do the other. Just make sure there are no little fingers trying to grab any food off of the plate you are cutting from.

Here's one more. When I had my double stroller (a Graco Duo Glider) I washed it at a car wash. I used the power washer wand at the car wash and it came out great. Just make sure the brake is on. No need to unsnap anything! Mine turned out so good I wished I had brought the ArmorAll along for the tires.

Submitted by Astrid N.

Ditch the high chairs all together! A feeding table makes life so much easier. Cleaning 1 table as opposed to 3 high chairs & all their parts, is a huge time saver. Not only do the kids eat here, they color, read book, & other craft activities keeping them in their seats. My husband made ours for a fraction of the cost of ordering one.




Submitted by Melanie V.
I recommend feeding naked babies. I suggest feeding them at the same time if they are not easily distractible but if they are then have them facing opposite directions. Feeding them can be a really messy pain. Much easier/faster cleanup.




Submitted by Toni H.
Post a list of emergency numbers in your house by the fridge- We keep our work numbers, our cell numbers, our in-laws numbers, babysitters numbers, neighbors' numbers, pediatrician office numbers, poison control, etc. all on one page and it is always in the same spot for easy use (by anyone).

Submitted by many different MoMs
Keep the diaper bag stocked.
Keep your cell phone charged.
Keep medicine box filled and up to date. Have one for the car and one for home.
Have a list of emergency go-to people and contact numbers.
Have 24 hour pharmacy number available.
Know where the closest 24 hour store is located.
Always have diapers and wipes stocked up.
Put family first - the phone and computer can wait
When going out- plan an extra 10 minutes for the unknown
When in doubt give lots of hugs and kisses

Friday, May 28, 2010

To separate or not to separate...that is the question.

I think it is safe to say that all MoM's wonder about this when we go register our children for school the very first time. I have yet to get there. My trio is only 26 months old & will not be entering any preschool program until kindergarten. For this, we have the wonderful opinions of 2 club members, Sara B. & Elizabeth D.

Separating multiples written by Sara B.

It's important to recognize our multiples/twins as one, after all from day one they been together. As they develop and grow their own personalities and independence. It is also important to recognize our multiples/twins as individuals too. We can encourage that by separating them at preschool, if it is just by a few tables or perhaps a class! Here they can develop their own interests, skills, language, friendships and abilities.

Initially we felt we wanted out twins to be together. After much discussion with teachers, friends, other multiple/twin families, a week before school, we opted to separate them. Both are very eager to tell me about "their" day, and talk to each other about what they did too.

We couldn’t have made a better choice. Both are thriving, enjoying making independent choices, happy, still seeing each other yet learning while they are a twin, they are also individuals.


Not to separate written by Elizabeth D.

When our fraternal twin girls began preschool three years ago, we chose to keep them together. Although they play with other classmates, they find comfort in seeing their sister in the room. During teacher conferences, I always ask how they are getting along and how the teacher perceives their relationship. So far, the three teachers have had no issues and continue to recommend keeping the girls in the same class.

It is certainly easier on me too. I only have to keep up with one calendar for things like show and tell and snacks and can easily attend the class parties without having to split my time. We have been pleased with our choice.