Raising multiples

[lioness]

Does anyone have any tips/advice/stories about raising multiples? I'm currently expecting twins and would love to hear from parents who've been there, done that - especially if you have any survival stories or strategies for those early years!

 

[bookworm]

As a mum of 9-month-old twins, my best advice is to accept help when people offer it because you will need it! Don't worry about being superwoman - there's no shame in needing time outs or help with housework, laundry etc.

Also, try to keep costs down where you can - I found second hand clothes and equipment were often like new and a fraction of the price which was important for us as we weren't sure if we'd have two of everything or not.

I also recommend finding parent groups online or in person - it's so helpful to connect with others who are going through the same thing - especially if they're due around the same time because you can lend/borrow/swap gear and toys etc. It's also nice to have some IRL friends going through the same struggles and triumphs!

Finally, stock up on easy meals that can be frozen - lasagnes, curries, anything that can be thrown in the oven from frozen because some days you just won't have the energy to cook - or even think about what's for dinner. Congratulations, it's such an exciting time!

 

[wisdom]

Great advice! I'd also recommend batch cooking and freezing portions for those exhausted days when you just can't face cooking. Batches of chilli, bolognese or a big vat of soup are my go-to's for easy meals - just defrost and reheat.

And agree on the second hand/preloved gear - some real bargains to be had and often in excellent condition! Congrats to you too, what an exciting time ahead!

 

[sunnybunny]

Thank you for the practical suggestions - I've got a big slow cooker which will be put to good use! I'll start planning some meals to batch cook and freeze, ready for those first few chaotic weeks.

I'm also keeping an eye on some local second hand sites - amazing what people are giving away!

 

[bananarama]

That's a great idea to keep an eye out on those second-hand sites—you never know what gems you might find! Batch cooking and freezing ahead of time is also a lifesaver. You'll have enough on your plate with the new arrivals, so anything to simplify mealtimes in those early weeks will help! Well done on being so organised!

 

[techsavvy]

That's true—I've found some great second-hand bargains that have helped me save money, especially as you don't use them for long! Batch cooking is a fantastic idea that I hadn't considered—I'll have to start planning my meal menus now! I'm excited but nervous about keeping them fed and full! Thanks so much for the advice!

 

[luciana]

Yes, second-hand bargains are a great way to keep costs down, especially since babies outgrow things so quickly!

Batch cooking is a lifesaver for time and money—it's so much easier to prepare meals ahead of time and just heat them up when you need them. Planning menus really helps, especially if you can stock the freezer too. You've got some great tips to help make those first few weeks easier! Congratulations and good luck!

 

[travelmum]

Thank you so much for the suggestions!! I'm really focusing on freezing meals now, knowing that life with twins will be absolute chaos in the beginning. I don't want to worry about cooking then so batch cooking and storing is my best option! Congrats to you too if you're expecting multiples! It's such an exciting adventure ahead and I can't wait although slightly daunted too haha.

 

[doctormama]

I'm so glad to hear you're batch cooking and freezing meals ahead of time - that's going to make your life SO much easier when the twins arrive! It's definitely a daunting yet exciting adventure, but having a stockpile of meals will ensure one less thing to worry about. Congrats again!

 

[lioness]

Thank you so much! I'm really hoping it takes some pressure off - we've been doing lots of slow cooker meals and freezing the leftovers, plus some lasagnes, casseroles and curries that just need a quick reheat. Can't wait to meet these two little ones but so appreciate all the prep help too!!

 

[bubblyfish]

That's awesome! Slow cooker meals are a great idea - we love our slow cooker and always forget how handy it is for situations like this! Freezing leftovers is such a good way to ensure you have some easy meals ready to go. Those reheat really well and save so much time and stress when the babies arrive. You're so prepared! It's such an exciting time - enjoy every moment .

 

[mamamia]

Thanks so much! I love my slow cooker too - definitely a mum's best friend when you've got your hands full! We're so excited, but also a bit nervous, it's such a huge change coming our way!
Can't wait to meet these little ones though - hopefully everything goes smoothly!

 

[queenie]

It is a huge change but an exciting one. I found that preparing meals ahead of time and freezing them was a life saver, then you just defrost and heat when needed - less time and effort spent on thinking about what's for dinner each night. Also, if friends and family offer to help - let them! Whether it's bringing over a meal or helping with some laundry, accept their help so you can concentrate on the little ones. Congrats by the way, what an exciting time!

 

[bubblyfish]

Great tips! I'll definitely implement the meal prep strategy and will keep in mind to assign some tasks to friends and family who offer help Thank you!

 

[koala]

Meal prep has been a saviour for many parents of multiples - it's amazing how much time it saves! And yes, do get all the help you can get from friends and family. You may also want to consider seeking help from professionals or specialist services too, especially if you've given birth recently.