Tips to Manage a Newborn and a Toddler

Adding a Second Child

When you have your first baby, it is a major adjustment. Your life is suddenly turned upside down, and you have to get used to the new normal. If you have another child within the next two years, you face another upheaval. Is it easier or more difficult with your second baby? In truth, it’s both. It’s easier in that you now have a grasp on what the newborn phase entails, and you’re a pro at assembling baby gear and installing car seats. It’s more difficult, of course, because all the things you did the first time must now be done with a little one at your heels. Don’t worry! You’ve got this, and we have some tips to help you manage.

Getting Ready for the New Addition

The need for babyproofing before a second baby cannot be overstated. You probably already have most things child-proofed, but give it a second look. Put child locks on everything and move everything that isn’t child-friendly out of harm’s way. The goal is not just to keep your little ones safe, but to keep you from having to say “no” to your toddler while you are tending to your newborn.

Making Your Space Easy to Navigate

Create space in every room of your home for your toddler to enjoy. This doesn’t have to be elaborate, just a special bin or drawer filled with things for your older baby to explore. At the same time, make sure you have a place in each room where you can set your baby down safely to tend to your toddler. Again, this doesn’t mean you need a crib in every room, it can be as simple as a blanket ready to put on the floor. The point is to make your life easier by having a space for each child so you can change your focus as necessary.

Dividing Your Time

If you are holding your baby and your toddler is playing quietly, express your approval with quiet words and a smile. Catch your older child in positive moments and offer praise or a hug; positive attention is a wonderful way to encourage your child. Take advantage of mother’s day out or even a family member who might want to take your toddler for a little while, to give you time with the baby. At nap time and bedtime, put the baby down first so your bigger child can have some special attention.

Get Out of the House!

Fussy days are inevitable, and sometimes everyone will feel a little bit stir crazy. A walk is a wonderful remedy for this, for everyone involved. You will get some exercise, your baby will likely be soothed, and you can talk to your toddler about what you are seeing along your walk, boosting his or her language skills and building connection between the two of you. If you don’t have the energy for a walk, put a blanket down in the yard and sit with your baby while your toddler runs off energy.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Loves Helping Young Families

For more tips and advice, check back here often! At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.