Hello mamas! I am expecting a new baby boy in June, at which point my first (boy also) will be 26 months old. I am curious how one juggles a newborn at the same time they are chasing a very active two-year old around!
When I think back on Connor's newborn days, I remember being so busy and sleep-deprived. So, I can't imagine what it will be like chasing a toddler at the same time!!
I've seen previous posts that mention having the right products will help immensely, such as a good double stroller and a wrap in which to wear the newborn while chasing the toddler.
Are there particular brands of double-strollers, wraps, that you would recommend?
Are there any other products or tips/advice that you feel I should consider, as well?
I'm both excited and curious (perhaps a little terrified ;-) to see what an adventure this will be! hehe
Thanks in advance for you help, mamas!
Hi D. C!
Welcome to Austin. I found myself in the same situation three years ago. I loved the Graco DuoGlide (because it fits through doors) and the original Baby Bjorn carrier. Best wishes! You can do this!
J.
D.,
My hubby and I moved here from D/FW about 10 years ago, and haven't looked back! Austin is SO much more my speed.
That being said, www.myfavoritebabycarrier.com. The Ergo Baby carrier is the one piece of mommy-gear I would -never- live without. I can still carry the five-year-old in it when I need to, though it's not nearly as easy as when I throw the 2 1/2 year-old on my back. I don't go -anywhere- without it. This site has a 90-day money back guarantee, so check it out!
I've had various strollers over the years, and found that my Sit-n-Stand was WAY too heavy and hard to maneuver. I keep a double-jogger (that I got at a resale shop) for those times when I'll need to off-road it (like at the zoo), but I've found what works best for me, is two light-weight umbrella strollers (I LOVE my Maclarens), with a cool connector-thing (http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2396433). This is only for when I HAVE to use a double. When my hubby's around, we split the strollers and each take one.
Aside from that, I usually just use one umbrella stroller when needed, plus my Ergo.
I'm also a HUGE fan of resale. Unfortunately, my favorite resale shop just closed down, but if you google Austin Mothers of Multiples, they have a buy/sell twice a year. It's basically a GIANT multi-family garage sale, with only baby and kid stuff.
Welcome to Austin, good luck, and best wishes!!
M.
Hi D.,
That's about the spread on my two kids, so I know right where you are. I never did the double stroller thing. My girl was always so active that I wanted her walking and burning energy whenever she could safely do so.
When I had my son I carried him a lot in slings and wraps. This is the style I found worked best:
http://www.mobywrap.com/t-instructions-NewBorn.aspx
He's almost twenty-five pounds now and I still carry him in that sometimes, especially when we're going on walks or traveling.
It's great because it distributes the weight really well and keeps them close to your body. You'll be able to "wear" him for hours without really feeling it. He'll find it comforting and you'll still be able to chase after your older boy. Everybody wins!
Citi Mini Double from Baby Jogger, super well made, only 30" wide, only 26 lbs, with a big canopy with windows, each side fully reclines, and best of all the easiest fold and open ever!! I got mine at 1379 in Tarrytown Austin. I love mine!
http://www.babyjogger.com/cityminidouble.htm
