MOM HOT TAKE: 2 under 2 isn’t as bad.
motherhood comes with many ups and downs. you’re not always going to be the perfect mom. especially when you have 2 under 2! you’re learning SO MANY new things at the same time. dealing with how your toddler will react to a newborn, but it definitely gets better! it’s not the worst. it’s not extremely difficult. that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its days when you just need a break. and in my opinion, it’s the perfect age gap!
here’s my take on why i LOVE 2 under 2:
⏰ they’re on similar schedules: naps, bedtimes, and even meals often overlap, so you’re not juggling two completely different routines. as you get used to it, you’re able to distinguish which child needs what first. For example: my 10 month old goes down for bed first, then my 2 year old, but they’re going to bed at the same time.
🍼 baby gear is still out: you don’t have to re purchase the high chair, stroller, crib, etc. it’s already in use or just laying out. the only other purchase we had to make was getting our toddler, a big girl bed. everything is passed down to baby.
🤰🏽 your body is already in baby mode: you’re used to diapers, sleepless nights, and feeding schedules, so the transition isn’t as shocking as going from no kids to one. if anything, it’s been way easier!
👯♀️ sibling bond starts early: they grow up as built in playmates and often become closer since their stages aren’t too far apart. and it’s SO TRUE. my 2 year old is always saying “sissy come play with me” and my 10 month old will crawl on over to her big sis! there’s constant giggles and smiles between those two. it’s beautiful to see and is worth the bad times.
⏰ less time for jealousy : the older sibling is still so little that they adapt quickly to sharing attention, rather than deeply resenting it. don’t get me wrong, there ARE moments when your toddler may get jealous, BUT it NEVER gets to the point of resentment. you just have to make time for your babies individually.
#momhottakes #lemom8challenge #youngmommy #motherhood #momlife
Okay, so I just shared why I love having two under two, and yes, I stand by it! But let's be real, motherhood with two little ones, especially so close in age, isn't always a walk in the park. There are days when it feels incredibly hard, despite the immense joy. Those early weeks, especially, can be a blur of sleepless nights, constant demands, and the feeling of never quite catching up. One of the biggest hurdles for me was managing the sheer exhaustion. Even though my body was already in 'baby mode' from the first, adding a second meant an exponential increase in nighttime wake-ups and daytime needs. I remember feeling completely touched out and wondering if I'd ever drink a hot coffee in peace again! My survival tip? Lean into the naps. If both kids were napping, I’d prioritize rest over chores. Even a 20-minute power nap made a world of difference. Also, don't underestimate the power of a good baby carrier – it allowed me to keep the baby close while still being hands-on with my toddler. Another significant 'challenge of motherhood with two children under two' was navigating the toddler's adjustment to a new sibling. While my oldest adapted quickly due to her young age, there were still moments of jealousy, seeking attention, and the occasional meltdown. My strategy was to create designated 'special time' with just my toddler every day. Even if it was just 10 minutes of reading a book or playing with blocks while the baby was safely in a bouncer nearby, it made her feel seen and cherished. I also involved her in baby care – letting her fetch a diaper or sing to the baby – which fostered a sense of responsibility and love rather than resentment. Leaving the house felt like a military operation in the beginning! Packing for a small army seemed an understatement. My solution? A perpetually packed diaper bag/go-bag with essentials for both children. I’d replenish it as soon as we got home. And I learned to set realistic expectations; we might not get out the door on time, and that's okay. Sometimes, just making it to the park was a victory. While the article mentions the early sibling bond, which truly is beautiful, there are moments of conflict too. Two little ones mean double the snuggles, but also double the mess, double the noise, and sometimes, double the tantrums. My biggest piece of advice for navigating these 'hard' moments? Find your village. Lean on friends, family, or even online communities for support. Don't be afraid to ask for help, whether it's for a meal delivery, an hour to yourself, or just an understanding ear. Remember, as the OCR noted, it’s about acknowledging the challenges but realizing it's 'not as horrible as often portrayed.' With a little planning, a lot of patience, and an abundance of love, having two under two can be an incredibly rewarding journey. You’ve got this, mama!