Updated: May 13, 2018
Originally Published: Aug. 24, 2016
A year ago, I was a first-time mom, utterly consumed by my little one. There’s nothing quite like the experience of becoming a mother for the first time. Despite my best efforts to prepare, I quickly realized I was clueless about so many aspects of parenting. I often found myself asking: How do I soothe this baby when they cry? What can I do to help them sleep? And how do I care for myself amidst the chaos of spit-up and diapers?
As I awaited the arrival of my second child, anxiety set in. I feared that my heart could never expand to love another human as deeply as I loved my daughter. I was apprehensive about returning to the “newborn phase.” How would I juggle a 2-year-old and a newborn? While I felt a bit more self-assured this time, my life was turned upside down again — in a wonderful way.
Here are 22 lessons I learned from welcoming my second child:
- Inner Strength
You’ll discover that you are far more resilient than you realized. Carrying a baby in a car seat while holding a toddler will definitely give you a sense of empowerment. - Adaptability Is Key
What worked wonders for your first child might not have the same effect on your second. Stay flexible and let the baby’s needs guide your approach. - Crying Isn’t Catastrophic
When you’re on the bathroom floor with a toddler and your newborn starts crying, it’s okay to let them wail for a moment. Just get your toddler out of there! - Use What You Have
The color of your baby’s washcloths is irrelevant. Use whatever is available; it’s all the same when it comes to keeping a baby clean. - Exhaustion Redefined
Prepare to be amazed by your body’s ability to function on minimal sleep. Your limits will be pushed in ways you never thought possible. - Sleep Patterns Are Unpredictable
Every time your newborn finally settles down, your toddler will inevitably wake up. You’ll find yourself desperate for sleep and open to any advice on how to achieve it. - Naptime Coordination
Your mission will be to synchronize nap times for both kids. This can become your daily sanctuary. - Quality Time Matters
You may worry about your first child adjusting to the new addition, but they adapt. It’s essential, however, to carve out special moments with them. - Newborns Aren’t Fragile
You might be surprised at how robust newborns actually are. Toddlers often have no concept of being “gentle” around them. - Invest in a Good Carrier
You’ll soon understand why baby-wearing is so popular. It becomes a lifesaver in busy moments. - Surprising Toddler Behavior
Your older child may exhibit behaviors you never anticipated. You may start to feel like you’re raising a miniature wild animal — suddenly, the newborn seems easy! - Daily Improvements
Each day brings progress for both you and your children. Just be prepared for perpetual lateness; it’s part of the journey. - Sibling Bonding
The moments of laughter and smiles shared between your children are priceless; it’s a joy that’s hard to put into words. - Toys Can Be Overrated
Don’t stress about buying new toys for the baby; they don’t need much to be entertained. - Accept Help
Recognize that you can’t do everything alone. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. - One Child Feels Like a Breeze
Regardless of your second child’s temperament, you may find yourself reminiscing about how easy it was with just one. - The Double Stroller Advantage
On tough days, a double stroller can be a game-changer. A simple walk can act as a refreshing escape for everyone involved. - Meal Times Are Chaotic
Prepare yourself for the reality that traditional mealtime routines may go out the window. - You May Find Yourself Yelling
If you were never one to raise your voice, you might find yourself letting loose when the chaos becomes overwhelming. And that’s perfectly okay. - Time Flies
With your second child, you’ll notice how quickly time passes. Don’t stress if you miss those cute monthly milestone photos. - Self-Care is Vital
With less time available, it’s even more crucial to prioritize your own well-being to keep your sanity intact. - Love Multiplies
You absolutely have enough love in your heart for two children. This past year has been a whirlwind of emotions — different from what I expected, yet more fulfilling than I could have imagined.
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Summary
Welcoming a second child can be both exhilarating and daunting. The journey is filled with unexpected challenges, moments of joy, and the realization that love only grows. Each day presents new lessons, making the experience richer and more rewarding.