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Early Months with Twins
What to Expect and Tips to Survive the First Weeks with Multiples
By Kim Seidel
Scalise says her best idea to keep their family on schedule – and to combat sleep deprivation – was sleeping in shifts with her husband. "One person stayed 'on call' well into the late night to early morning, while the other person got some uninterrupted sleep," she says. "Then, we'd switch shifts. We each got about five to six hours of unbroken sleep, and it felt like a luxury."
To live on a schedule with twins, you'll need to ask for help. Many mothers of twins say their husbands are their most important partner. If you're a single parent, you'll hopefully have another family member who can help you out in the first few weeks, Yrungaray says.
When you have twins, it doesn't matter if your husband can't breastfeed or has to work in the morning. "Prepare your spouse by talking to him about helping," Yrungaray says. "When you are so tired that you can't see straight, hand them over to him."
Use your helpers – take advantage of those who offer a hand. If Grandma comes to visit one day, let her watch the babies while you nap one or two hours, Walker says. If neighbors or friends ask how they can help, allow them to make a meal or arrange to do some household chores. If someone offers to babysit, ask them when they're available.
"Think of it this way: The more you allow others to help, the more time you will have to actually enjoy your twins," Walker says.
Asking for help also benefits siblings. "You'll barely have enough time for the twins for the first few months," says Yrungaray, who had a 2-year-old daughter when her twins were born. "If you have older children, ask family members, friends or anyone you trust to take them on play dates or visit with them."
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