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The First Year With TwinsThe first year with twins is the one you’ll want to learn most about. Once you get through it (which you will) the rest should fall into place. The first year with twins generally gets the most coverage in books about twins, as well as other informational sites about parenting twins. In fact, the first year with a single baby warrants the same attention. This is all for good reason, considering how lost we sometimes feel as parents, particularly during that first year. We like to feel prepared and reassured by informing ourselves ahead of time about what to expect. Of course, this seems even more imperative (at least to some of us novices) when we are expecting twins.If your twins are (or will be) your first born, you will gain a lot by reading through this page. If you’ve already been around the block with a previous child/children, then consider this a refresher course with twins added into the mix. Although, most of the information here is drawn from my own experience as a mother of twins, I have also included some truly fun and helpful quotes from other parents of twins, as well as valuable tips. This is meant to be a basic guide through the first year with twins. It’s cool to get practical, easy-to-understand advice from fellow twin parents, but you should always consult a pediatrician or other qualified health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have. Let's get started! Feeding TwinsFrom birth until 4 to 6 months, feedings will consist of bottle fed formula, breastfeeding , or both. With two babies needing to be fed several times a day, most parents find that a solid schedule is important. Getting twins on the same routine will allow some down time for mom or other caretakers to have a break or get other tasks completed (laundry, dishes, vacuuming, etc.). It’s generally pretty easy to establish a good feeding routine if you start very early on. But do not get discouraged if it just doesn’t work out. Your twins may not always be hungry at the same time or eat as much as the other at every feeding. A more flexible feeding schedule may have to be implemented. Go with your instincts, but don’t be afraid to be firm either.Many parents recommend using a feeding log during the early weeks to keep things straight. In addition, a Twin Nursing Pillow will be a great help even for bottle feeding, so be sure to check some out, as well as some of the “hands free” feeders available (pictured below). At around 4 to 6 months your twins may be ready to start solid foods. The first to be introduced is commonly a single grain, rice cereal followed by other cereals like oatmeal or barley. After that, it’s on to vegetables, fruits, and finally meats. Many cereals are fortified with iron and other nutrients, so be sure to read labels. You may even want to look into making your own baby food. This is actually simpler than you think and very cost effective when you’re constantly buying for two. There are quite a few Baby Food Recipe Books  available.If your twins were preemie, they may take a bit longer before transitioning to solid foods. Also, keep in mind that one twin may be really eager to try solid foods while the other may refuse. If both are rearing to go, then get ready to feed two at a time! Having two bowls of food ready along with two spoons for feedings is an organized approach. But, doing two completely separate feedings provides an opportunity for some real one-on-one time. You’ll soon find what works best for you and your babies. Don't forget to check out our Twin Highchair Guide.
“You know they’re always swaping germs anyway, so I always fed my girls out of the same bowl with the same spoon!” “I can’t believe one of my twin boys is actually eating finger foods, while the other will gag if you give him anything solid!” Tip: If you plan on bottle feeding your twins, consider buying at least 10 -12 bottles and nipples, as well as a gallon sized jug to pre-mix formula in. You can easily pre-mix a large batch of formula daily to store in the fridge. Having plenty of clean bottles and formula on hand makes life much easier and will usually get you through a full day of feeding. Twin Sleeping SchedulesThis can definitely be an agonizing subject, frequently during the first year with twins. Much like feeding schedules, most parents will try to enforce some kind of routine. Also, much like feeding schedules, this may not always work. To save your sanity and get some rest yourself, put into practice a sound sleep routine as soon as your twins are born. This generally works well following a feeding for naps and a feeding and/or bath for bed time. Most children fall into a steady routine without difficulty. The more you are able to keep twins on the same eating and sleeping program, the easier it will become. There will always be good days and bad days when it comes to sleeping. Just remember, this stage won’t last forever, and yes, your twins will eventually sleep through an entire night! Take a look at our helpful Twin Crib Guide.
Quotes: “Having my twins in the NICU for a month was grueling. But boy, those nurses got them on great sleep schedules that continued even when we brought them home….What a help!” “My twins actually went to sleep much easier then my singleton ever did. I think it was the comfort of being together that helped.” Twin Bath TimeJust because they are twins doesn’t mean they’ll get twice a dirty, but you will need to give twice the baths! Luckily, infants don’t tend to get too sullied, at least not enough to warrant a daily bath. So, when twins are in this stage it’s relatively simple to bathe them just two or three times a week. A small, portable bath tub is handy, but don’t forget the kitchen sink, or a standard tub of shallow water. Preparation is a must and will make for a smoother operation. Get towels, washcloths, soap, lotion, etc. ready and within reach. With infants, bath time should be quick and to the point. You don’t want them getting too chilled, and many infants won’t even like being undressed let alone wet. You’ll likely want to stick to bathing one twin at a time during the early weeks. Then, as they get a little older (usually when they can sit up on their own), twins can share the same tub and bath time can be extended. The whole experience generally becomes more enjoyable through the toddler stage when they can really have fun with bath toys and such.
“I purchased two of those cheap, yellow, sponge cushions and put both in the tub with a few inches of water. They worked perfectly for bathing my twin boys at the same time when they were still infants and could not yet turn over.” “My twins absolutely hated bath time until around four months of age….It just got better after that. Now I can’t even get them out of the tub. Tip: Having a helper is a plus when you’re bathing twins, as you can pass one clean twin off to be dressed while you finish bathing the other. Leaving The House With TwinsBelieve it or not, it’s actually easier to get out of the house while your twins are still infants. You can put them into infant car seats that can then be snapped into a travel system ( Double Stroller ). Couple that with all of the sleeping they’ll be doing and you’re in pretty good shape for a shopping excursion or other errands. If you have other siblings involved, they can be a blessing or a curse depending on age. Older siblings tend to be a bit more helpful, while younger ones demand more attention. I know this situation well, as I had a two year old when my twins were born. It took some preparation, but I did indeed get out of the house with all three….And yes, it was much easier when they weren’t all running in different directions!Traveling with twins will be much less complicated with some well thought out preparations. Always pre-pack a diaper bag/bags and other necessities and get them loaded into the car ahead of time. Don’t forget extra things like: Snacks, sunscreen, toys, or other seasonal items.
“I always kept a spare diaper bag in the car stocked with necessities like diapers, wipes, blankets, powdered formula etc. It meant a lot less to pack when leaving the house.”
Dealing With Older Siblings Of TwinsOlder siblings will surely be inquisitive about all the excitement that comes with twins. Priming them for the eventual arrival of their new baby brothers or sisters is a good place to start. Determining just how you will explain what’s coming depends largely on the age of the child/children. Older children (around 5 years +) are generally more inclined to be helpful and understanding. Younger children, not totally grasping the situation, may vie for more attention and even act out. All children are different, of course, so attitudes will vary. Just do what comes naturally or feels right for your particular child.When you bring your twins home be sure to keep siblings involved. Let them know how important and helpful they are as a big brother or sister by creating opportunities for them to pitch in. Also, set aside some special one-on-one time for them. Read them their favorite book, take them out for an ice cream or to the park (without the twins). The first year with twins can be a real adjustment for older siblings, but soon you will find all of your children settling in and doing all the typical stuff…..Arguing, sharing, troublemaking, laughing, and yes, loving each other!
“Personally, I have always thought that having a single baby before twins was super helpful. Even though many people (family members included) seemed skeptical about how I would cope with a toddler and twin infants, I had a boost of confidence having done this at least once before.” "I already had two sons before the arrival of my twin sons, so you can imagine what I was thinking...'I'm so outnumbered'! I have to say that the first year was the most transitional...Lot's of explaining, a little stress, and finally a solid routine. Tip: Make the new big brother or sister of twins feel extra special with a gift after the birth your twins. There are some fun
T-shirts
available just for them. Twin SafetyThroughout the first year with twins (and beyond) it’s a good idea to institute some safety measures around the house. Start by taking a look around down on your hands and knees. You’ll get a better baby’s eye view of the potential hazards. Very small objects (coins, bottle caps, safety pins, etc.) should be completely removed because of their obvious choking potential. Drawers and cabinets within reach of young twins should have safety latches installed. You must get some electrical outlet covers for any exposed outlets also. Be sure that there are no hanging drapery cords or ties, as well as any phone, TV or computer wires that can entangle your babies or toddlers. Any large pieces of furniture (bookcases, changing tables) should be securely anchored. Keep in mind the potential of two children climbing onto these objects which can add just enough weight to topple them over. If you have a fireplace in an area that is accessible to your twins, be sure to secure it with the proper screen or other barrier. And always fence off or gate any access to stairs!
“With a play pen being much too small for two babies, we decided to fence in a large area of the living room to create a clean, safe play area for our twins.” Tip:It’s tough trying to keep a constant eye on toddling twins. Creating a secure “safe zone” for them can be a genuine advantage. You may be able to do this with a spare room or other section of your home. Today’s market offers many options for child safe fencing and gates Read more about the First Year With Twins Read about the First Year With Twins from a dad's point of view! 
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