DH and I are currently discussing ttc'ing for number 2. (DS will be 18 months in Feb). We've talked about everything but the one unknown is still how we will handle going from 1 child to 2.
I would love some stories and also some tips! My family lives overseas and DH's family live an hour away but they are very unsupportive, so unfortunately we don't have a support network at all. I'm particularly interested in how you managed to BF baby and keep your toddler happy too!
I can't help you on the BFing part of it, I never did with my second child, but I have done with my #4 child - so that was with a 4 year old, 2.5 year old and a nearly 16 month old - so it can be done!
I'm not sure I can help with any tips, I think you sort of learn what works for your toddler as you go along, what worked for mine may not work for you - I know I use the tv though! Books are good too. Plus you can sit on the floor and feed the baby, so can play with blocks with them with your spare hand if you really have to
As you did with your first, you just figure it out as you go along. Breastfeeding is fine - I just figured out how to bf and walk around . A sling or wrap is a necessity, I think.
I have a 18month old and a 2.5month old and to be honest I have found it much easier the 2nd time round. I am bfing much more successfully this time and well I am generally not as flustered as I was when I had just the one.
My husband is very hands on and we make a great team.
When I am bfing DD2, DD1 goes and hangs out with dad, or if Dads not around I make sure DD1 is happy before I start bfing DD2. So I time things like make sure DD1 isn't hunrgy/thirsty/needing a nappy change etc before I start. I also would wack a good DVD on for her so she is happy to sit and watch it while I am Bfing, but as a PP wrote-you learn to bf and do other things like remove foreign object from DD's mouth, rub are sore foot etc LOL
Life is more hectic but in an organised way if the makes sense LOL. We are very routine orientated and I think that makes things much easier!
Im currently struggling with the same things. i have up till now, pretty much just said to myself you will just cope, you have more knowledge behind you this time, you have done it all before, i have been so busy and distracted this pregnancy with xmas and being so sick i sort of havent had time to think about it (subconsciously burying my head in the sand) and now i realise this baby is coming, and i have no idea how to cope, its full speed ahead and im freaking out! Bit i still have all my hopes pinned on 'you just learn to adapt and cope'.
Goodluck with your decision
Going from 1 to 2
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