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moonrose2715 · January 2013

I need help managing. I am SO tired after 4 months of no more than 2 to 3 hours of sleep at a time. I'm managing ok overall but mornings are slow moving. My toddler is increasingly acting out during this time because she is bored and wants attention. I just don't know what to do to continue supporting breastfeeding on demand and life with a toddler. Help! We already cosleep for maximum nighttime sleep.

tokenhoser · January 2013

Are there any programs you could enrol you older one in to get her busy and entertained for a morning or two a week to give you some breathing room?

Have you considered pumping earlier in the evening and letting DH give the first feed of the night as a bottle? I did this for a while, and it worked for a while to buy me one longer stretch of sleep. Baby started the night in the crib for that point, though, and then we coslept after he woke for his second feeding.

ncbelle · January 2013

Daily physical activity! Seriously the best thing for everyone at our house was to be really consistent with a morning walk routine - sun and fresh air is great when you are tired and little ones need to burn off energy to avoid the whines.

I'd also second the suggestion to try to find an activity for your toddler - even a mothers morning out program once or twice a week can make a big difference for both of you.

When Eleanor was still young, we still went lots of places for Callum to burn off energy. She slept in a carrier - if you don't have a good, comfy carrier, it's a must!

BuckeyeBride200 · January 2013

I agree with the outdoor activity, or just physical activity. Also, a schedule/routine for my toddler has been helpful. My baby is actually much more chill than my toddler. I can rely on her fairly regular naps and willingness to sit in her bouncy seat while I pay attention to DS. I have been shocked to find that my toddler actually requires more attention than my baby. But, this has shown me that my oldest is actually high-needs, and my baby is pretty much normal, hahaha!

BuckeyeBride200 · January 2013

Also, if you're a SAHM (it sounds like you are?), take a nap with your kiddos. You have to go easy on yourself right now. If you're trying to keep up with housework, etc. the same way you did before, try to cut back on stuff. Easier said than done, I know! Keep meals as simple as you can. I *try* to remember, "People before things." Good luck and I HTH!!!

danienross · February 2013

All I can say is you're not alone. I think PPs gave great advice. If DH isn't chipping in then have a heart to heart with him about you needing help. My biggest struggle is not having DH around to do his part and/or give me a break.

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