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Home › Articles › Family › Two Under 2

Two Under 2

The Joys and Challenges of Children Close in Age

By Mark Stackpole

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Two Under 2-The Joys and Challenges of Children Close in AgeThrough all of the successes and challenges with the children themselves, Alan Maddox found that there were other issues that faced him not only as a father but also as a husband. "It was hard having such a long span of pregnancies and postpartum," he says. "It is hard for a husband to deal with all the hormones that never seem to settle down during and after pregnancies. With the kids so close together, it was over two years of hormones with no break."

Even so, Maddox is definitely glad that they had the children so close together. "I think people wait years between kids because of money or because they think it will be easier," he says. "Most people thought we were crazy and just laughed at us. Once we lived through it and saw what a blessing it was to have them so close, we were both very glad for the way things turned out."

Surviving Two Under 2

Dr. Shoshanna Bennett shares her tips for daily survival with two or more youngsters in the house:

  • Always have a backpack or sling to carry a child.
  • Pack easy, nutritious snacks. Snacks high in sugar and low in protein will produce whiny children.
  • Color-code children's clothes since their sizes may be similar.
  • Tape a list of what is needed in the baby bag on the bag and check it before leaving the house.
  • As soon as possible, let the older one be the helper for the younger.
  • Don't be afraid to solicit help. It can be great for everyone.
  • For long car trips, have new toys the children have never seen.
  • Start good habits early, such as putting toys and shoes away, cleaning table after eating, etc.
  • No matter how tired you are or where you are, be consistent with discipline. Only say what you mean, then follow through.
  • Organize the night before and always pack more than you think you will need.

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