Parenting a toddler and a newborn can feel overwhelming. If that’s where you find yourself right now, this post is for you.
Dear mom of a toddler and a newborn . . .
I can’t believe my little Sofia is one now. Where did her first year go?? I miss that tiny newborn, but at the same time I wouldn’t trade the stage she’s in now for anything. What a fun little girl God gave us!
Since Sofia’s birthday a month ago, I’ve found myself thinking back to when she was born and the days that followed.
I remember wondering how I was going to take care of this tiny newborn with an energetic toddler running around.
I remember watching my husband drive off on his first day back to work. I sat down on the floor and cried. I was still recovering – how was I going to do this?
Well, spoiler alert: I survived. 😉
That first day one of my younger sisters came over and entertained Caleb for awhile. I was SO grateful. And in the days that followed life slowly fell into a rhythm. A new rhythm.
During one of those first days when I was feeling overwhelmed I posted about how I was feeling in a Facebook mom group that I’m a part of. I so appreciated all the words of solidarity and encouragement that those moms gave me. That’s what I want to do in this post today. If you’re a new mom of a toddler and a newborn, this post is especially for you.
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It’s going to be ok.
First of all, take a big breath. Know that you are going to be ok. It WILL get easier. Take things one day (and sometimes one hour) at a time.
Know that things will be different this time with both a toddler and a newborn, and that’s ok. You may not rock this baby to sleep quite as often as your first, but baby will be just fine. Sometimes baby may need to cry a minute while you help your toddler, but again, baby will be just fine.
Here are a few things that I found helpful at the beginning of this new phase:
Practical suggestions for the mom of a toddler and a newborn:
The whole “sleep when baby sleeps” thing doesn’t work as well when you have a toddler too, but whenever possible try to put the kids down to nap at the same time.
Have a few special new toys/books to pull out for your toddler while you feed the baby.
Strap your toddler in a highchair or booster seat for activities like:
- play-dough
- coloring (this is hit or miss with Caleb but is always worth a try!)
- sticker book
- water paint book (we love these Water Wow! books from Melissa and Doug!)
- snacks
- watching a show (we’re big fans of Daniel Tiger)
Give your toddler a mid-morning quiet time in their crib or a room with a baby gate. We already did this before Sofia was born so Caleb was used to it, and we still do it at least a few mornings a week. I usually cut up an apple for Caleb and he sits in his crib, eats, and looks at his books. Having a little mid-morning breather can be so helpful for me and it’s good for Caleb too.
Try to get outside for at least a little while every day. Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for your mood! Plus it’s so good for your toddler.
When you’re feeling down, play music; light a candle; open the shades and let the sun in; get dressed if you’re not; have a snack; Facetime/Skype a friend.
Load up the kids and go for a little drive if you’re going stir-crazy.
Don’t feel bad asking for help – even just an older kid to come and play with the toddler can be a lifesaver.
And finally, pray. I love Psalm 61:2 –
From the end of the earth I will cry to You,
When my heart is overwhelmed;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
God made you a mother and He is going to walk with you through each and every stage. Cry out to Him and let Him be your strong rock.
I ended my recent post about moms missing church with Isaiah 40:11. The verse ends with these words: “He gently leads those that have young.” What a beautiful promise to hold onto!
While this stage of parenting a toddler and a newborn may feel overwhelming, I promise that it holds a LOT of joys as well. Watching your kids slowing bond; noticing the similarities and differences between both of them; seeing your youngest start copying everything your oldest does; eventually watching (and helping) them learn to share.
Cherish those sweet moments with your toddler and your baby and lean on God through the tough ones. You’ve got this friend! 🙂
Having a long day at home with your kiddos? Here’s what helps (and what doesn’t!)
Are you a fellow mom? I’d love to connect with you! Leave a comment below or visit me over on my Instagram page.
