New abby and toddler

[Sanlare]

How do you manage caring for a enw abby and ahving another oyung toddler to look fater.i am just can't manage and can't enjoy my first days with ym new baby. Husband is sick and is nuable to help.

[Seb9]

My little girl is 3 and baby girl is 10 months, I feel like we're in survival mode at the moment. There are moments that I enjoy and days where it's incredibly tough. I've found being out of the house easier, so always have a plan for the day, like going to the park or going to soft play.

I also put the toddler into Pre-school 3 days a week so that I have time to spend with baby one on one.

Do you have any other family you can ask for help or friends? Maybe they could take the toddler for a bit to give you a break?

[Countrychic]

My little boy is 19 months and baby is 8 weeks. I have found getting out of the house in the morning helps to tire my older child out (so he has a good nap in the afternoon). It also makes me feel like I am doing okay. Baby sleeps in the car or pram. Playgroups are good because there are other parents there who can help keep an eye on the older one if you need to feed baby. People also love holding baby so gives you some free time to play with the older one.

I try to make time with my older child and give him lots of praise and encouragement to help him feel secure/cope with such a big change.

I have also found having ‘special’ toys are helpful for keeping him amused when you just need 5 mins or when feeding the baby.

Some days are exhausting, others are more manageable. Embrace the good days and if you have people who can come and help, take advantage!

[Forgetmenot22]

I feel your pain as going from one to two was a shock to the system as one was toddler like yours! Try not to put so much pressure on yourself. It can be overwhelming when both need you at same time. However it will get easier and soon you will b on autopilot. (I have recently had another baby and found myself in same situation)!

Try finding activities for toddler to do whilst you are seeing to the newborn or make them your ‘helper’ so they feel involved.

When baby goes down for their nap then try spending time and maybe having cuddle ans story with toddler then.

If there are dishes waiting it didn’t matter the kids came first. Try to take time out for yourself also. Will get better.