When you become a mom for the first time, some things may occur that you don't expect. When you're pregnant with your second child, you're a seasoned parent and have a pretty good idea of what's going to happen. However, dynamics are slightly altered because there's another child in the picture.
There are ways to prepare yourself, and your firstborn, when a new baby comes along. Plus, there are ways you can save some money the second time around. If you're expecting baby number two, here are some things to keep in mind.
Your Labor May Be Easier
Some women have a really difficult labor the first time around. But don't get anxious about the second one because it may be completely different than the first. If you had a natural birth the first time, there was some stretching, so the second labor can be quicker and easier.
After all, your body has already gone through it once before, so it can definitely do it again. It helps to keep your eye on the prize: there's a great reward waiting for you after you make it through the labor and delivery: a brand new baby boy or girl!
Your Firstborn May Need Some Extra Attention
A new baby means big changes for your firstborn. One way to make sure he or she adjusts is by making sure to include them. For example, when you bring your infant home give the older one a small gift. Also, be sure to have plenty of one-on-one time with your firstborn so he or she feels special.
Another tip is to make sure the older child hears you say things such as, "Wait [new baby], I'll help you in a second. I'm with [first child] now."
It's Okay To Take Your Time To Reveal Your Pregnancy
During their first pregnancy, many women can't wait to let others know about the new baby. However, it's up to you to decide when you want people to know that you're expecting. And if you wait a little longer than you did with your first child, that's okay.
Don't feel like you're hiding your pregnancy from other people. There's nothing wrong with keeping it secret until you're ready to announce the news. And typically, people won't think it's strange. Instead, they'll usually be respectful about the news.
You'll Probably Have Morning Sickness Again
If you experienced morning sickness the first time you were pregnant, it's likely that you will have it again. About 70 percent of women have to deal with it, and unfortunately, it doesn't go away on the second round.
If you're worried about how it will affect your firstborn, do what many moms do: fake it. You don't need to let your child know that you're not feeling very well, plus putting on an act may actually make you feel better.
You'll Save By Reusing Your First Child's Supplies, Including Bottles
You can save a lot of money if you reuse many of the items you got when you had your first child. This includes bottles. The only thing you may want to consider is purchasing new nipples. Otherwise, simply sterilize the bottles for the new baby.
The more items you reuse, the less you will have to spend at the big box stores. You can reuse everything from onesies to diaper bags and everything in between. Waste not, want not.
There Are Plenty Of Names That Go Well With Your First Child's Name
Sometimes it can be challenging to determine what name you want to give your baby. And you may want the name to match (or at least not clash) with the name of your firstborn. If you are having a hard time choosing the perfect moniker, do what many parents do: go online.
There are several websites you can consult in which you enter a name you've used, and the website will generate other names that go well with it.
It's Okay To Tell Your Firstborn The News When The Timing Is Right
There's no perfect time to let your firstborn know that he or she will be getting a little brother or sister in the near future. It's entirely up to you and when the timing feels right. That may be really early on during the first trimester, which can give your child some time to adjust.
It's a good idea to let your child know so they understand if you're more tired than usual and don't want him or her jumping up and down on you.
A 'Sprinkle Shower' Is A Fun Baby Shower Alternative
Many parents forego a baby shower for their second child because they already received a lot of supplies after the birth of their first child. Plus, some think it's a little greedy to have one for baby number two. However, there is an alternative that can make everyone happy.
A "sprinkle shower" is becoming increasingly common. Guests don't bring extravagant gifts; instead, they only buy the necessities for your little one, including diapers, wipes, toiletries, etc.
You Should Start Saving Money Now
When you add another baby to your family, you are also adding a bit of expense to your budget. Having one child isn't cheap, so when you have a second one you need to make sure you put some extra aside.
Don't wait to start saving. If you're in the early stages and merely just thinking about having a second child you should start squirreling some money away for the future. That way you'll have a little extra when the new arrival makes his or her appearance.
There Are Other Options Besides Daycare
Most working parents use daycare unless they have a grandparent who is willing and able to step in and care for the baby while you're at the office. But there are other options you may want to consider before automatically checking out the local childcare facilities in your town.
Some parents opt for an au pair. While this may seem exotic or beyond your budget, some au pairs are actually less expensive than daycare (which can be prohibitively expensive). Do your research in advance, and you may be surprised by what you discover.
A Baby Carrier Is Extra Convenient When A Sibling Is Around
When you have a newborn, it's really convenient to use a baby carrier, particularly if a sibling is tagging along. Some children get a little overzealous when a baby enters the household, and a carrier can keep the baby a little more protected.
When you use a carrier, the baby is strapped to your chest. It's great for everyday use and for errands such as shopping because you can put your older child in the shopping cart and carry the baby on your body.
It's A Good Idea To Take Care Of Your Toddler's Big Transitions Early On
If you are expecting and raising a toddler at the same time, it's a good idea to get your two- or three-year-old as self-sufficient as possible in advance. Tackling these toddler transitions will make life a lot easier for you and your spouse when your baby is born.
To reduce stress, address issues that require a lot of your attention. This includes potty training and moving your child from his or her crib to the big bed. The earlier you accomplish these tasks, the easier it will be in the long run.
It's Definitely Worth The Extra Work
Many moms think having one child is a lot of work and can't imagine adding a second one to the mix. However, you will have few regrets bringing another baby into your home. This is true even if you have two children within a short span of time.
While it can be particularly challenging having children born less than 12 months apart, it can also be very rewarding. Oftentimes these types of siblings become very close to one another because they are so close in age.
There's Nothing Wrong With The Kids Sharing A Room
In an ideal world, children would have their own rooms and everything they ever wanted. But let's be realistic. Not only is this impossible for many people, it's also not necessarily the best for them either (especially the part about them getting everything they want).
It's actually okay for siblings to share a room. If you don't have the space and/or can't afford to move to a bigger place, put them in the same room. They may even become closer because of it.
This Tip Will Make Cleaning Much Easier (And Is Better For Your Back)
As a second-time mom, you may experience more aches and pains than you did after your first child. That's because you're constantly picking up and holding two kids instead of one. So, cleaning can be a real chore. When you're bending down and constantly picking up toys, it can hurt.
A solution is to literally sweep the toys into one pile so you don't have to bend as much. It makes cleaning a little bit easier and is not as bad for your back.
You Shouldn't Feel Guilty
It can be tough raising two children because you want to make sure you spend equal time with both of them. Plus, your firstborn spent some time as an only child in which he or she got 100 percent of the attention. Don't feel guilty that you now have to split your time between them.
Remember, it's not necessarily the best to give one child all of your attention all of the time. Also, having a second kid is like giving your firstborn an instant friend.
You Can Save Time By Getting Ready The Night Before
If you have two children it can be hard to make time for yourself. It can also be hard to get up early because you're so tired from caring for two young children. One solution is to get ready for the next day before you go to bed at night.
You can prepare your baby's daycare bag at night, which will save time in the morning. And if you want to go to the gym, simply sleep in your gym clothes. The next morning you're practically ready when you roll out of bed. Drop baby off, get in your workout, and shower at the gym.
You Can Workout With Your Kids By Your Side
If you don't have the luxury of working out at a gym, you can work out at home. If this sounds daunting because you have young children, then include them in the workouts. While this may not be an ideal situation, it's better than nothing.
Many two- or three-year-olds love hanging out with mommy, even if she's exercising. You can follow a video on YouTube or pop in a DVD, and if it's easy enough, they may be doing downward dog along with you.
You'll Figure Things Out
Having one child requires a lot of organizing, so you know that adding another is just going to compound the amount of work you do. But you need to trust yourself. Women have been raising families for thousands of years, and they figured out how to do it effectively.
It may take a period of adjustment, but you'll learn how to streamline every-day tasks. Just having one child can make you a great multitasker, so imagine what having two can do.
Focus On The Future
You may feel overwhelmed when you first welcome your second child into your household. It may feel like you have double the work to do in the same amount of time. Plus, you're not getting a lot of sleep. One way to get through it is by focusing on the future.
While the first few years raising a family can be hard, if your kids are close in age it can bring them closer together. They may share similar interests and become two peas in a pod.
