2 infants at once

akrog12

So I just got a new job as a nanny and I'm very excited. I will be able to bring my now 8 month old with me. However, the child I will be nanny-ing was only born a week ago, and when I start will only be almost 2 months old. I am intimidated. My daughter is really curious and active, and I know a 2 month old is much different. Does anyone have any personal experience that they could use to advise me on how to manage 2 infants? Or maybe a book? I'd like to be as informed as possible so that I know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Would setting up a playpen for my daughter while caring for the younger child be a good idea? I'm sure I will manage, I'm just a little nervous! thanks!!!

smerka

Mine kids are 11.5 months apart, but when my second son was born, my first wasn't walking yet.  The key is going to be making sure that the area you are in is very well childproofed.  Then if you need to change a diaper, put the baby down, or use the bathroom you don't have to worry.  I also used a PNP to keep the baby from the older one if I had to leave the room to do something.  Good luck!

akrog12

thanks!!

mayowife

Congratulations on the job!

Babyproofing is key.

In addition to a pack n play you may want to make sure you have a wrap or carrier with you every day. You may also want to consider a special toy or bag of toys that your LO can only use under specific circumstances- ie when you are rocking the newborn to sleep.

akrog12

would you mind reccomending a sling or wrap? I have yet to buy one because they can be an investment, and I'm afraid to buy one that wont work for me. Will jealousy be an issue? My lo is an only child, and I have been a SAHM since she was born.... How do I handle that if it becomes an issue? thanks.

mayowife

I would recommend an Ergo (or Beco). Yes, it's pricey but it's worth it. Check Craigslist for a used one. You can use it with a baby/toddler up to 40lbs. You will be able to hold the newborn or your baby. The great thing about children who are extremely close in age is that there are often fewer jealousy issues. My LOs are 15.5 months apart. I don't think my DS remembers life without DD. Also, the great part is that your LO will still get plenty of 1:1 time because your work day will come to an end.

(I also like the Moby, but only for younger babies.)

akrog12

Is it possible to nurse in an ergo sling? I've been wanting to try one because lo has been really distractible when nursing (totally unrelated to the original post, but anyway) 

and are they good for head support? do they leave imprints on the babies bodies? I have heard bad things about slings cutting off circulation... but I really want a sling!

thanks for the input! really! my mom raised 3 kids (age 5, 2 and 1) when I was little and I don't know how she did it! I was adopted and then my mom miraculously got pregnant after being told she couldn't conceive! She claims she doesn't really remember how she managed to raise us (she was also a single mom!) ! lol. This really helps! 

LaurenL977

My DS is almost 8 months old and I take care of another baby who is only 6 days younger.  At started taking care of the other baby when they were about 3.5 months old.  I literally cried every day for about a month.  But...it does get better.  You eventually will get into a little routine (which will probably change often), which feels go and stable while you are in it.  Just remember that at some point you are going to have a crying baby (either yours or the other).  Don't run yourself ragged trying to calm each baby immediately or you will be crying yourself.  I was constantly running back and forth between babies for the first few weeks...it was not fun.  I wanted to quit so many times.  It is much better now, although they are both all over the place and napping can be rough with teething now.  Good luck, it will work itself out!  Also, you may want to get a used double stroller.  It really helps when you just need to get out of the house!