Parenting more than one child

Filed in archive Parenting on April 18, 2006

Parenting a toddler is a challenge in itself. There are days when I seem to be on the brink of tearing my hair out due to frustration and stress. My son's energy level matches those of an energizer bunny that keeps going and going whereas mine seem to be coming from a rechargeable battery that was only charged halfway.

In a few months, though, I would be facing an even bigger challenge. In addition to parenting an energetic toddler, I would have to take care of my newborn son, too.

Don't get me wrong, I am looking forward to the new addition in the family. It's just that I need to figure out how to cope with 2 energizer bunnies.

So how exactly do parents of more than one child cope? Do they split themselves in half? Have they been secretly cloning themselves? What's the secret?!

According to Jo Douglas, you cannot be perfect all the time. Phew, what a relief! She has suggested that:

• One should stay calm in order not to add even more pressure.


• One should reduce expectations from one's self. No superwoman/martyr complexes, I suppose.


• Ignore what cannot be helped. There are things which can wait, to be dealt with later.


• Be realistic.


• Ask for help.


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  To read more on Jo Douglas' advice, click here.

How about YOU? What is your secret?!