How to Care for a toddler&Newborn Without Losing your mind

Chrystal - posted on 03/22/2012

My son was just under a year when my daughter was born. Every time I sat down to nurse he would take the opportunity to get into things and having started walking he got into everything. I finally just decided that for the time being I'd take anything he could get into and put it away and baby proof the rest. House may have looked a bit bare but it saved me a ton of stress and let my daughter nurse uninterrupted for the most part. I also did snacks and special toys when I needed to focus on my daughter. A written schedule and menu plan saved my sanity I didn't have to spend time remembering where I was on my list after an interruption or what needed to be done in the first place. Those things got me through till my daughter was 3-4 months and got the hang of having two. If you've got a spouse have them take care of baby one or two nights a week so you can get extra rest which really helps with the demands during the day.

Jennifer - posted on 03/22/2012

Involve her. She can do little things like fetching stuff and learning about the new baby while you are taking care of the new one. Stress will be a part of it. Cry, and at night when they fall asleep give yourself a manicure. eat some cookies you bought just for you, have a special tea. Something just for you.

Lindsey - posted on 03/21/2012

I have a 3 year old and a 4 month old... both boys. I worked for a brief period in btwn and still use our in home day care 2-3 days a week so I can get one on one with baby and catch up on housework. Otherwise I am at the park or the zoo, etc and have found some indoor play areas for days when the weather is bad. My older son hasn't napped in at least a year which makes things difficult. I always bring food to the park for big brother and just nurse baby wherever I am. We have the ergo carrier (which I recommend over others). I hate keeping track of a stroller at the park and use a compact stroller if we're doing something that requires more walking. Its not easy but staying in the house is a bummer. Will often times shower at night while hubby is home to make it easier to get out of the house the next day. Its not always easy but you will find your groove. Dad also gets big brother out of the tub and into bed at night most of the time to give me a little break while I finish up dishes etc. Hang in there... you'll find your way. Strongly advise getter the older one into some type of preschool or small dc a few days a week though. It will be good for both of you. Also dad should take the older one out a day on the wkend for something special for a few hours for you. And at least once a month go get a pedicure or have lunch with a gf or something to help you feel human without the kids. Perhaps when baby is a little more established (depending on your hubby's abilities.. lol). Best of luck! Know you're not alone! We all go a little crazy at times no matter how many kids we have.. :)

Stifler's - posted on 03/21/2012

I did that too sherri nappy changes and feeds at the same time or a snack if the baby fed often

Sherri - posted on 03/21/2012

Routine, routine, routine!! It will be your lifesaver. I had an 18mo old and a newborn and it is completely what kept me sane. I changed diapers at the same time. Would get a sippy cup and snack ready or meal before I would feed the baby. That way my toddler was all set before I got tied down for 20mins feeding the baby. Spent as much time as possible with my toddler while the baby slept as the sleep a lot still as newborns. I also included the toddler into helping with chores to get things done such as helping with the laundry, letting him put away the silverware, help mixing in items for dinner. etc.

Melanie - posted on 03/21/2012

I had a toddler and a new born once, I don't remember most of it. kind of a blur.

Megan - posted on 03/20/2012

If the weather is nice take the kids outside. I have a 5.5y, 2.5y, and 4mo boys. And they all drive me nuts lol. If outside is not an option set up a play space inside for your daughter. We are lucky enough to have an entire playroom in our house but if you can't swing that just get a few gates to keep her managed to a smaller area or out of important stuff.

Stifler's - posted on 03/20/2012

Go out. Go for a walk to the shop or around the block. Go for a coffee with a friend. Don't just sit home all day going insane. Take your 19 month old to the park and swing them with baby in a carrier or stroller. Or just watch them go down the slide. Go to playgroup. Encourage lots of outside play for the older one and bring baby out in the pram or on a blanket on the grass.

Sarah - posted on 03/19/2012

I too like the baby gates and the schedule. Try to have your 19 mos. old help out also. He/she can help you get the diaper, wipes, blanket, etc. When you are feeding the baby have a special box of toys that he/she can play with only during those times. Having her get some books for you to read during that time can also work. There are also times when putting on Dora or Little Einstines to keep them occupied while you feed is a lifesaver. If she likes playing with dolls have her take care of her baby (change diaper, feed) when you are doing those things to the 5 wk. old.

Victoria - posted on 03/19/2012

I would try a schedule, for yourself and the kids. Breakfast, nap, lunch, outside time, errand time, dinner etc. It helped me when my girls were younger bc I felt more organized and less stressed. And definitely baby gates! Create a safe place for your 19 mo old where she can't get into anything, that way you can care for baby and she can play. Good luck, its tough at first but i promise it gets easier!

JENN - posted on 03/19/2012

Hi!! I have twins, they will be 2 years old next month. My advice, invest in baby gates. I am a stay at home mom and there is no way I could get anything done without baby gates. They have a playroom that is on the main floor of my house. When I need to do laundry or anything, I put them in there to play. Believe me, it's awesome. Maybe if you have a playroom or something you could set up as one, it would probably take off a lot of stress on you. That way if you need a breather for a moment you can take one. Good luck!