5 things you didn’t know about raising twins

Many people base their ideas of twins off of television shows, but we tell you 5 things most people probably don't know about twins that will come as a surprise to most.

Twins are individuals

Just because your twins are born together and may look exactly alike doesn’t mean that their personalities are the same too. Twins are two different people with varying attitudes. They may have certain similarities but there will always be distinct characteristics that separate them. For example, one baby may end up crying when his toy is removed while the other may just be indifferent to the situation.

Raising twins can be tricky, especially if the differences aren’t that obvious. Competition and comparison cannot be helped, but do not stop encouraging your children as soon as they are old enough to make choices.

Twins are infectious

Some twin babies do not share everything but they do share disease-spreading germs. This is because twins tend to stick together all day. When one baby is suffering from certain diseases, be prepared to separate them as the other baby could easily acquire the germ too.

The sick baby should not sleep or play together his twin until he is stable and not prone to spreading germs.

Simultaneous breastfeeding is possible

Most mothers might think that feeding the twins at the same time is impossible. But it isn’t, especially since women have a pair of breasts to begin with. Aside from practice, simultaneous breastfeeding of babies takes a lot of patience too. Some babies might have difficulty latching but they will get the hang of it as will you. Finding the right feeding position with several nursing pillows and a comfortable chair or spot on the bed will make things easier.

Simultaneous feeding when raising twins will help establish a routine and give mothers a bit more time to rest since separate feedings are eliminated. Skin to skin contact during these feedings is one of the best times to bond with the babies too.

Two of everything isn’t always needed

Most parents with twins might think that they need twice as many baby items when they’re having twins but this isn’t totally true. While a multitude of diapers are required, purchasing two cribs, changing tables and playing mat isn’t really necessary. This is because twins often prefer to sleep together in one crib and play on one mat. Parents can change the babies alternately – while one is on the changing table, the other stays secured in the crib.

Strollers, car seats and baby swings are some of the equipment that must be obtained in pairs. If you have friends or relatives with older babies, ask to borrow these items or purchase them at a much lower price instead of getting new ones

Twins get a lot of attention

While it isn’t surprising that people don’t normally see twins every day, be prepared to get a lot of attention from everyone that sees the children. The fame that the twins will get can be anywhere between pleasant or annoying. Parents of twins will be getting a lot "oohs" and "ahhs" as well as unwanted comments and unsolicited advices.

While talking is tolerable, make sure that no one touches the twins without the parents’ permission.

Written by

Karen Mira

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