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How Do You Cope With a One-Year-Old and a Newborn?

Reviewed on 4/14/2022
How Do You Cope With a One-Year-Old and a Newborn
It can be challenging to deal with a newborn when you already have a one-year-old or toddler. Here are some tips that can help you cope.

It can be challenging to deal with a newborn when you already have a one-year-old or toddler. Both need a lot of attention and care, which can create both stress and uncertainty for parents. Here are some tips that can help you cope.

10 Tips for Coping With a One-Year-Old and a Newborn

  1. Ask for help
    1. Family and friends are usually willing to help, and many may offer—accept the help!
    2. Don’t worry about whether your home is a mess or whether you have showered or not. 
  2. Be flexible with your schedule
    1. Your “perfect” schedule may not be reasonable.
    2. Focus on mealtimes and bedtimes if possible, but don’t worry about being too regimented.
    3. Keep a loose schedule because toddlers crave routine, but don’t expect the newborn to be on the same schedule.
  3. Wear your baby in a carrier or wrap
    1. This keeps the newborn next to you while you are hands free
    2. This allows you to move around freely and take care of your one-year-old’s needs.
  4. Keep the older child close by
    1. Find ways to involve your toddler in what you’re doing.
    2. For example, find a comfortable position in which to nurse so you can read the older child stories or talk to them.
  5. Invest in products to make life easier
    1. Get a diaper bag that holds items for two children.
    2. Get a double stroller that fits both children.
    3. Get a bouncer or swing for the baby so you can get things done or give the toddler attention.
  6. Shop online or use curbside pickup
    1. Avoid trips to the grocery and instead use online shopping and grocery pickup or grocery delivery when possible. This saves a trip when you only have a few items to purchase .
    2. If there is a “subscribe and save” option for regularly purchased items such as diapers and toiletries, use it.
  7. Make time for yourself daily
    1. Parents need an outlet and a break from the kids
    2. Plan time for yourself to unwind and recharge.
    3. Ask a friend or neighbor to come over for 30 minutes to watch the kids so you can get a break.
    4. Have your partner care for the kids so you can rest, take a bath, work out, shop, or whatever you need to do by yourself.
    5. Join a gym with daycare so you can exercise without worrying about the children. 
  8. Lower your standards
    1. Sometimes the house will be a mess or you won’t have time to prepare a nice meal. This is perfectly fine.
    2. Focus on your children’s needs first in the first few months.
  9. Go easy on yourself
    1. Adjustment to having two children under the age of two is huge, and everyday tasks will take longer.
    2. Don’t be hard on yourself or beat yourself up for mistakes.
  10. Let go of guilt
    1. Sometimes you will not be able to meet the needs of both children at the same time.
    2. Remember you only have so much energy.

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Reviewed on 4/14/2022
References
Image Source: iStock Images

https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/how-to-deal-with-two-kids-under-two/

https://theincrementalmama.com/tips-survive-newborn-toddler/