Rule #1: Do NOT try to feed them at the same time or you will stress out your rotator cuff. I did.
Rule #2: Invest in swings, they are amazing, but your kids will outgrow them quickly so have a backup plan. (Mine is a pack and play until the girls have head control, then it can serve as a bouncer).
Rule #3: Set a time limit on feeding them, do not rush, but don't take up a lot of time either. (My time limit is 30-45mins per baby).
Rule #4: Set up a feeding schedule if you can. Most parents of twins say they try this, but fail. However, I have found success, so I'm guessing feeding schedule issues must be different for everyone. (I will post my feeding schedule down below)
Rule #5: Set up an activities schedule for the babies (tummy time, sitting up exercise, etc.).
Rule #6: ALWAYS have a diaper bag packed with all the essentials for those last minute trips to the store and/or emergencies.
That's about it, but I'm sure this list will grow as the years pass. Until then, my rules keep me focused so I can get stuff done around the house, or run errands when I need to.
Now, here is a simple version of my feeding schedule (Rule #4).
- Feed Laina at 8:00 AM. Feed Ayla at 8:30 AM (Time varies with diaper changes)
- 12 Noon, feed Ayla. 12:30, feed Laina.
- 4:00 PM, feed Laina. 4:30 PM feed Ayla.
- 8:00 PM feed Ayla. 8:30 PM feed Laina. Then off to the crib for bed time.
- 4:00 AM, wake up and see if the girls are awake, if not then just a diaper change and back to bed.
- Repeat…
With this schedule I can usually get the housework done and start dinner by the time my wife gets home. It may vary sometimes.
I'm not suggesting you keep on a daily schedule to become that awesome husband with twins, but I have to have one or I would be lost. If you are like me and need to have a schedule, remember, be flexible because schedules can change at a moment's notice.
So, if one of your twins wakes up 30 minutes early, don't panic, just try keeping him/her entertained until the other wakes. If that doesn't work, go ahead and change the diaper and start feeding.
Use the schedule as a guide, but be flexible. This type of stuff is all up to the parents, but this is what's working for me.
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What's your best tip for a new civilian male military spouse? Let's chat in the comments!
Andrew “Fergie” Ferguson
Andrew "Fergie" Ferguson is a disabled Marine Veteran, male military spouse and Stay-At-Home-Dad (SAHD), sharing his progression from Marine to SAHD and giving back to new dads like himself, mostly with multiples.
