ALLABOUTTWINS
pregnancy ❤ Babies ❤ parenthood
Our Journey as Twin Parents Monitoring in Twin Pregnancy
How to Soothe Two Babies at the Same Time?
UNDERSTANDING PTSD IN TWIN PARENTS
How to Recognize the Signs, and When to Reach Out for Support
by Tracy Law | Birth Trauma Therapist Brighton
Tracy Law is a highly experienced midwife with nearly 35 years in the profession, dedicated to supporting women through the transition to motherhood As the founder of Birth Trauma Resolution Brighton, she provides solution-focused therapy for birth trauma, helping women, men, and healthcare professionals worldwide Inspired by her own journey as a twin mom, she has a deep passion for supporting parents of multiples. In her free time, she enjoys running, traveling in her caravan, cooking healthy meals, and spending time with loved ones
The Hidden Struggles Behind the Joy
Becoming a parent to twins is an extraordinary experience, double the joy, double the love, but often, double the intensity When pregnancy, birth, or the postpartum period is filled with complications, what should be a joyful time can become traumatic.
For many twin parents, these difficult experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s a condition that often goes unrecognized, especially when people assume trauma only follows catastrophic events. But for parents, PTSD can arise from moments that felt frightening, overwhelming, or deeply out of control, particularly in the journey to, or through, a twin pregnancy
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that occurs when the brain has difficulty processing trauma Instead of recovering over time, the mind and body remain stuck in a heightened state of distress
For twin parents, PTSD may result from:
Website: www.birthtraumaresolutionbrighton.com
Instagram: @birthtraumaresolution
Facebook: @TracyAnneLaw
High-risk pregnancies (e g , preeclampsia, IVF, previous loss, gestational diabetes, or premature labor)
Traumatic births involving emergency procedures, medical complications, or feeling powerless
NICU stays, where parents may face separation, fear for survival, or long-term uncertainty
Medical crises, whether maternal or neonatal, that trigger intense emotional responses
Past trauma, such as a previous loss or difficult birth, that resurfaces during this new experience
Not everyone exposed to a difficult pregnancy or delivery will develop PTSD, but persistent emotional distress long after birth is a sign worth taking seriously.
Signs of PTSD in Twin Parents
PTSD doesn’t always show up right away. Symptoms can surface weeks, months, or even years after the birth. While they may begin subtly, they can grow and deeply affect everyday life Look for the following signs:
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1 Flashbacks and Intrusive Thoughts
Reliving traumatic moments from the birth, pregnancy, or NICU
Nightmares or persistent upsetting thoughts
Feeling as though you're "back in the moment" when triggered
2. Avoidance
Avoiding conversations or places associated with the trauma
Withdrawing from medical appointments or follow-up care
Pulling away from social events, even with close family or friends
3. Hypervigilance and Anxiety
Feeling constantly on edge or overly alert
Obsessive worry over your babies’ health, even when they are thriving
Exhaustion from an inability to relax or rest
4. Emotional Numbness or Disconnection
Difficulty bonding with your babies
Lack of joy or motivation in parenting or daily life
Feeling guilty, ashamed, or emotionally flat
5. Mood Swings and Irritability
Sudden outbursts of anger, frustration, or sadness
Trouble concentrating or experiencing mental fog
Persistent feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or being overwhelmed
The Impact of PTSD on Parenting
PTSD doesn’t just affect the parent, it affects the entire family dynamic. Parenting twins is already physically and emotionally demanding. Add trauma to the mix, and it can feel like an impossible mountain to climb
You may find yourself:
Feeling disconnected from your babies or overwhelmed by caregiving
Struggling to meet their emotional needs due to your own exhaustion
Avoiding asking for help, fearing others won’t understand
Experiencing tension in your relationship with your partner
These are not signs of failure They are signs that your mind and body are still responding to trauma, and help is available
You Are Not Alone: Healing Is Possible PTSD is real It is treatable And you don’t have to navigate it alone
1. Open Up to Someone You Trust
Start by sharing your feelings with a supportive partner, friend, or fellow twin parent Just saying the words out loud can be a powerful step toward healing
2. Seek Professional Support
Therapies like Human Givens, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), or trauma-informed counseling can help you gently process what happened in a safe, compassionate environment.
As a birth trauma specialist, I work with parents using proven therapeutic approaches to help release trauma and restore calm, clarity, and connection.
There Is Strength in Seeking Support
If you're reading this and recognize yourself in these words, know this: you are not broken, weak, or failing. You are surviving something incredibly hard, and support can make all the difference.
You don’t have to live in survival mode. Healing is possible, and help is here.
TWO LITTLE HEARTS, ONE BIG LOVE
Our Journey as First-Time Twin Parents
Sofie Nouwen is a digital creator and proud mom to twin girls, Robin and Renée, alongside her partner Rik. Based in Belgium, she shares real-life stories of family, travel, and the beautiful chaos of twin parenting Through heartfelt tales and honest reflections, Sofie invites others to embrace the magic of making memories, one moment at a time
Instagram: @twintales be
Nine months ago, we stepped into the world of parenthood
for the first time, not with one baby, but two Two little girls Two perfect gems And while our hearts are bursting with love, I have to be honest: this journey has been anything but easy At times, it’s been overwhelming. Sometimes, I’ve felt lost And more often than I can count, I’ve asked myself, Am I doing this right?
Double the Love, Double the Learning Curve
Like every new parent, I was figuring things out as I went, but with twins, the learning curve felt twice as steep. Twice the questions. Twice the doubts Twice the fears I was scared I’d mess it all up. Scared I wouldn’t be able to give them everything they needed Looking back, I know I would do some things differently, not out of regret, but because I’ve grown Especially when I think of those intense newborn days. At the time, they felt like a whirlwind But now, I look back with tenderness, and yes, even a bit of longing.
Sleepless Nights and Hard-Won Rhythms
Sleep was one of our biggest challenges What worked for one baby didn’t always work for the other There was no one-size-fits-all solution Exhaustion took its toll, physically and emotionally We cried more than once But over time, we found our rhythm We learned to listen to our babies, not every piece of advice out there
Our mantra became simple but powerful: go with the flow Let go of expectations Feel what works for you.
Life Goes On, And Gets Even Better
One of our goals as new parents was to hold on to the things we loved doing, outings, travel, moments of joy, only now, with two little ones in tow It takes more planning, more flexibility, but it’s possible. And it’s liberating to know that life hasn’t stopped, it’s been enriched
Learning to Tune Out the Noise
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: don’t let others shake your confidence Everyone has an opinion Everyone seems to “know better ” But you are the one who knows what’s right for your babies And that’s more than enough
All About Twins magazine JUL • 2025 / 6
From Not Enough Hands to Confident Twin Mama
In the beginning, one of my greatest struggles was feeling like I didn’t have enough hands Holding both babies at once felt impossible Feeding them felt like a puzzle I couldn’t solve. I didn’t produce enough milk I didn’t have the right knowledge I was scared.
Now? I carry them with ease With the help of videos (from All About Twins), a lot of practice, and growing trust in myself, I’ve turned my fears into confidence What once felt like a mountain now feels natural and joyful
To New Twin Mamas: You Are Enough
If you’re a new twin mom reading this, please hear me: You are doing an amazing job. Be kind to yourself Even when it’s messy
Even when you’re unsure You’re allowed to stumble You’re allowed to learn You’re allowed to grow And most of all you’re allowed to enjoy it
The tiny smiles The snuggles The first giggles These moments are magic. And they fly by faster than you can imagine
We Wouldn’t
Have It Any Other Way
Our girls? They are everything to us. So different. So full of personality So perfect in their own unique ways Watching them grow, laugh, and light up our world there’s no memory I’d trade Every moment is a gift
And even though we were unsure at first, we’ve found our way Two little hearts, one big love and a life fuller than we ever imagined.
SUMMER BOOKS
How Am I Going to Soothe Two Babies at the Same Time?
By Susan Mocsny Thomas, RN
Susan Mocsny Thomas is an accredited La Leche League Leader of 44 years She is a registered nurse with over 25 years of labor and delivery, antepartum, and postpartum experience Susan currently is the Director of the LLL Alliance Breastfeeding and Lactation Resource Department She is the mother of three adult children and grandmother to five grandchildren.
Website: www lllalliance org
Email: info@lllalliance.org
Facebook: www facebook com/LLLAllianceDCE
Caring for one unsettled baby can be tough, soothing two at once can feel overwhelming.
Parents experience moments of anxiety when their babies remain fussy even after a full breastfeeding session
The good news? There are practical strategies that have worked for generations of twin parents. Try out these techniques to discover what soothes your babies, and yourself
Tried-and-True Ways to Calm Twin Babies
1. Babywearing - Times Two
Use two slings over each shoulder to carry both babies at once. This close contact offers warmth, comfort, and gentle motion that many babies love.
2. Front-and-Back Carriers
Wear one baby on your front and the other on your back using structured carriers This balances your weight and keeps both babies close and secure
3. The Power of Rocking
Don’t underestimate the classic rocking chair. Rocking creates a familiar rhythm that can calm crying babies and give you a moment to catch your breath
4 Ask for Help
Have someone nearby who can step in after a feed A willing helper can soothe one baby while you comfort the other You don’t have to do it alone
5 Bathtime Bonding
Take a bath with one baby while your partner (or a helper) cares for the other Then switch Skin-toskin contact and warm water can work wonders
6. Try a Car Ride
Some babies are lulled to sleep by the vibration and sound of a car A short drive in their car seats may provide the soothing they need
7. Respect Individual Preferences
Some babies find rocking overstimulating After feeding, they may need to be laid down in a quiet, calm space to drift off peacefully
8. Remember: Every Twin is Unique
Even identical twins have different needs One may crave movement while the other prefers stillness Learn their cues and trust your instincts
You’re Not Alone - Connect With Other Parents
Sometimes, the best tips come from fellow parents. La Leche League (LLL) meetings are a great way to hear firsthand what works for others.
Can’t get out the door with two babies in tow? Join a virtual meeting!
Visit lllalliance org and click on “Events” for upcoming gatherings, or select “Find a Leader or Group” to locate support in your area
Who We Are
LLL Leaders are experienced breastfeeding parents trained and accredited by La Leche League International (LLLI). They offer peer-to-peer support, guidance, and encouragement, backed by expert resources and a global network. With over 4,000 Leaders in 80+ countries, support is always within reach, whether online or in person
At La Leche League, we’re here to help you find your confidence, your rhythm, and your success in breastfeeding and parenting your twins
Have Breastfeeding Questions?
Search the map below for a La Leche League Alliance Leader Near You
Find Leaders and Groups near you for in-person conversations
Babies and children of all ages are welcome to join their parents at LLL events
Virtual Groups offer support from the comfort of your device with many options of days and times to gather remotely LLLI Accredited Leaders are available 24/7 for one-to-one help Leaders can be available to talk, text, or video chat La Leche League never charges for help and support
Get Inspired
G U I D E
Why accurate early dating is critical
How chorionicity & amnionicity affect care plans
Why twin labeling during scans matters long-term
Scan schedules for different types of twins
What each scan checks for, at every stage
MAKING SENSE OF MONITORING IN TWIN PREGNANCY
Understanding Your Ultrasound Journey Through a Trusted Patient Guide
By Stephanie Ernst, Co-Author with Prof. Asma Khalil | TAPS Support
Stephanie Ernst, founder of the TAPS Support Foundation Dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS), a rare but serious condition that affects twins sharing a placenta If you're a parent of twins, TAPS is something you need to know about.
Why Monitoring Matters More in Twin Pregnancies
Twin pregnancies follow a different path than singleton pregnancies, and for good reason. Depending on whether the babies share a placenta, the risks and outcomes can vary dramatically Conditions like Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS), and Selective Growth Restriction (sGR) can develop suddenly and without obvious symptoms. The most effective way to detect these complications early is through regular, targeted ultrasound scans. These scans form the core of an evidence-based monitoring plan designed to protect both babies and the pregnant person
A Guide Written With You in Mind
This patient-friendly guide is based on the updated ISUOG Practice Guidelines and coauthored by leading expert Professor Asma Khalil
Stephanie Ernst website: www stephanieernst nl Instagram & Facebook: @stephanieernstwriter
TAPS website: www tapssupport com Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin: @tapssupport
It uses the same framework your healthcare team follows, but rephrased in plain, supportive language Instead of overwhelming you with clinical jargon or simply telling you when your next scan is, the guide explains:
What each scan is looking for
Why it's scheduled at that time
What it means for your care
This structure supports real, informed conversations with your medical team and helps you feel confident and prepared, especially when making tough decisions
What You'll Learn Inside
The guide is structured to bring clarity to each stage of your care. Every section includes:
A summary of each medical recommendation
A simple explanation of the procedure
Why it matters
The science and research behind it
You’ll discover:
Why accurate early dating is critical
How chorionicity and amnionicity affect care plans
Why twin labeling during scans matters long-term
A breakdown of scan schedules for different types of twins
What each scan checks for, at every stage
What options are available if one twin is affected
How to navigate complications such as early delivery or selective reduction
How care changes in cases of fetal loss or unequal outcomes
A glossary and list of support organizations ensure you have ongoing access to help beyond your appointments
For Parents, By Experts Who Understand
This guide is a lifeline for:
Expectant twin parents who want to better understand their care
Professionals seeking to enhance their patients’ understanding
Families facing high-risk diagnoses or emotionally complex decisions
The guide opens with a powerful foreword by Dr Carolyn Lister of ICOMBO, emphasizing the global need for clarity, compassion, and communication in multiple birth care
Explore the Full Guide Patient Guide to Ultrasound in Twin Pregnancy: www tapssupport com/ultrasound-in-twin-pregnancypatient-guide
Original ISUOG Guidelines for Professionals: obgyn onlinelibrary wiley com/doi/10 1002/uog 29166
TWIN MOM OF THE WEEK
Double the Love, Double the Strength
@AshleyPatti is a proud twin mama to her adorable boys, Cade & Cruz, and she’s rocking motherhood in Franklin, TN like a pro! ����
But Ashley’s not just juggling twin life, she’s also the amazing owner of @northerly.photobooth. This Tennessee-based photo booth business brings fun, style, and unforgettable memories to every event she touches. ��✨
From chasing toddlers to running a growing biz, Ashley does it all with grace and heart, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to spotlight her this week ����
Being a twin mom is no ordinary feat, it's a journey of resilience, love, and unforgettable moments
At All About Twins, we celebrate the superheroes of twin motherhood with our "Twin Mom of the Week" program.
Why We Celebrate You
Twin moms are more than multitaskers, they’re miracle workers, jugglers of joy, and conquerors of challenges Whether you're mastering the art of tandem feeding, finding creative ways to get through sleepless nights, or discovering hacks to keep up with two toddlers, your journey is unique and inspiring.
Share Your Story & Shine
Each week, we honor a twin mom from our community who embodies the strength, love, and joy of raising twins This is your chance to:
Share your story with a supportive twin mom community
Be celebrated on our Instagram bio and enjoy a pinned feature on our feed
Have your content reshared with our entire audience to inspire others.
Get Involved
Do you want to be featured as our next “Twin Mom of the Week”? It’s easy! Simply share your story, tips, or a moment that reflects your twin mom journey
But hurry, we’re wrapping up our next magazine edition and are eager to include more amazing twin moms like you!
Celebrate the beautiful chaos of twin motherhood
Let’s share your journey with the world!
Submit Your Story
MENTAL WELLBEING: THE MANY LAYERS OF MULTIPLES
By Dr. Carolyn Lister, Chair & Research Director, ICOMBO
Dr Carolyn Lister, Chair of the International Council of Multiple Birth Organisations (ICOMBO) ICOMBO is a voluntary organisation that champions the rights of multiples Passionate about ensuring the unique needs of multiple and their families are understood and met Visit ICOMBO org to learn more about their Declaration of Rights and global advocacy work.
Website: www icombo org
FB: @InternationalCouncilofMultipleBirthOrganisations
Email: chair@icombo.org
Sign up for our public newsletter: www.icombo.org/mailing-list
Discovering you're expecting multiples often brings a whirlwind of emotions
Joy, surprise, and sometimes fear A multiple pregnancy is considered higher risk, and with that comes increased emotional, physical, and mental strain From pregnancy through the early years, families of multiples face challenges that many don’t see, and don’t speak about
The Silent Struggle: Mental Health Challenges for Multiple Birth Parents
In the UK, a Twins Trust survey of over 1,800 families found that 84% experienced emotional or psychological difficulties during the first year. These struggles often extend beyond infancy, with many parents continuing to feel overwhelmed and unsupported well into toddlerhood.
What’s more, today’s parents of multiples often report feeling less supported than previous generations, despite increased awareness of mental health
The emotional toll of carrying, birthing, and raising multiples is real, and we must talk about it. Recognizing these mental health challenges is the first step toward building better support systems for twin and triplet families worldwide.
Find Your People: The Power of Community
Many parents of twins or more say one of the hardest parts is how lonely it can be. Social isolation is common, especially when energy is low and logistics are tough.
Joining a local or online multiples club can be lifechanging Connecting with others who truly “get it” offers emotional relief, practical advice, and a sense of belonging
ICOMBO is a global, volunteer-run organisation supporting families of multiples Through our international network, we help families from pregnancy through to adulthood. Find member organisations and more on icombo org
Digital Connection: Online Communities Matter
Can’t join a local group? Online communities can be just as powerful.
From Facebook groups to Instagram circles, social media helps break isolation and create support systems, especially during complex pregnancies or NICU stays These spaces allow for honest conversations, shared struggles, and shared wins. ICOMBO collaborates with trusted organisations such as the TTTS Foundation, The TAPS Support Foundation, and the International Vanishing Twin Syndrome Foundation to ensure families can access compassionate and reliable support wherever they are
The “4 Ps” of Coping
In moments of stress, how we respond matters
Josephine Atluri, mom of seven (including three sets of twins!) recommends the 4Ps to manage daily overwhelm:
Pause – Take a breath and center yourself
Process – Reflect on what’s truly going on Pivot – Shift your mindset toward a calmer approach
Presence – Be in the moment with your children
These steps can turn chaos into calm and restore connection when things feel too much
Mind-Body Support: Mindfulness & Mental Health
You don’t need an hour-long yoga session to reduce anxiety. Even a deep breath in the bathroom counts Research shows that mindfulness, CBT, and yoga are effective in easing perinatal depression and anxiety, especially in high-risk pregnancies
Simple ways to boost your wellbeing:
Celebrate small wins
Try mindful eating
Step outside and breathe
Use kind self-talk
Unplug from screens
Connect with nature
Know When to Ask for Help
Feeling emotional or tired is expected, but persistent anxiety or sadness shouldn’t be ignored According to the National Institute of Mental Health, perinatal depression can seriously impact your ability to care for yourself and others.
Fathers of multiples are also at increased risk of postpartum depression If you or your partner are struggling, reach out to your healthcare provider, support is available, and healing is possible
About ICOMBO
The International Council of Multiple Birth Organisations (ICOMBO) is a voluntary organisation that champions the rights of multiples We are passionate about ensuring the unique needs of multiple birth infants, children, adults and their families are understood and met We have developed the Declaration of Rights and Statement of Needs of Twins and Higher Order Multiples, which is a key document that outlines what we believe are the fundamental requirements to assist in delivering positive health, wellbeing and educational outcomes, foster inclusion and ensure freedom from discrimination of any kind For more information visit: www icombo org
THE GOLDEN ERA OF TWINDOM
Ashley Veenendaal on Trusting the Journey, Savoring the Season & Raising Tiny Explorers
When Ashley Veenendaal reflects on the first days with her twin boys
She doesn’t picture peaceful newborn cuddles or soft lullabies. Instead, she remembers NICU monitors, quiet moments through Plexiglass, and the echo of compassionate nurses guiding her through the unknown
From the NICU to Newfound Strength
Born at just 3 pounds each, Cade and Cruz spent 8 and 10 weeks in the NICU at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville For Ashley, it was a crash course in strength, surrender, and shifting perspectives
“One of the most comforting moments was when the NICU nurses told me, ‘If they were still in your womb, they’d just be resting and growing. Growing is hard work for those babies That’s what they’re doing here,’” Ashley recalls “That reframe helped me realize I wasn’t failing, I was letting them grow ”
The nurses, she says, were “angels on earth” and turned fear into resilience.
Welcome to the Golden Era
Nearly five years later, Ashley calls this season “The Golden Era of Twindom.”
“We’re no longer surviving minute by minute. Now, I can truly enjoy them, watching how they explore the world, how they laugh, how curious they are It’s about being present, not just prepared for the next meltdown ”
With the chaos of babyhood behind them, Ashley now leans into the beauty of this evolving chapter, where independence blooms and deeper connections take root
Twin Parenting Takes a Team
Balancing a remote corporate career, a photo booth business (@northerly photobooth), and full-time twin motherhood is no small feat Ashley credits her village, and especially her husband Carl, for making it all work
“He shows up. Fully. Every bottle, bath, nap, diaper, bedtime, he shares it all I’m beyond grateful ”
Their live-in au pair also became a gamechanger, especially without nearby family
“She’s been a blessing, her help gave us breathing room to be present parents and functioning adults ”
Sharing the Real Moments
Through her Instagram accounts, @twinsroamfree and @ashleypatti, Ashley shares the highs, lows, and real-life beauty of raising twin boys What started as a way to capture memories evolved into a source of connection for other parents
“I post to remind myself of the joy in the everyday It’s not about perfect, it’s about presence ”
Ashley’s Advice for Twin Moms
Ashley’s message to twin moms in the thick of it is full of grace and wisdom:
Find your people:
“Connect with other twin families, even just online. A simple comment or DM can be golden. After age four, everything starts to sync. The chaos softens, and you’ll find real rhythm and connection.”
Let go of expectations:
“Twins have their own plans. Whether it’s an early birth, a NICU stay, or missing milestones, flexibility is your best friend.”
Embrace the NICU if it comes:
“It’s hard, but it can also be beautiful. Our NICU nurses taught us everything. It was like newborn boot camp Find the silver linings, they’re always there ”
Ashley’s journey reminds us that the early days may feel endless, but with time, patience, and perspective, twin life transforms into something golden Cade and Cruz are not just surviving, they’re thriving And Ashley? She’s savoring every second
TWINS AT THE HEART OF MY STORY
By Aziza Kinnarath @the.knotted.nurse
A Life Changed at 14
My journey with twins began far earlier than I ever expected I was just 14 years old when my parents welcomed twin boys into our home through foster care What started as a temporary placement quickly transformed into something lasting, when the boys turned eight, they were officially adopted
From those early days, I stepped into a role that felt like second motherhood I helped feed them, comforted them during night wakings, and learned what it meant to love and protect two little lives. Those twins were my first babies in many ways That experience shaped me deeply, it made me grow up quickly, and it also planted a dream in my heart: one day, I hoped to have twins of my own
From Joy to Heartbreak
Years later, after the birth of my first daughter, I found myself pregnant again when she was just 18 months old. At our anatomy scan, life seemed to come full circle, I was expecting twins But in the same breath that brought joy, came devastation. There were no heartbeats I had lost them both The grief was indescribable I was a mother mourning a double loss, trying to survive each day while still being present for my toddler
It was one of the darkest, most isolating seasons of my life.
Grief That Shaped Me
In time, I became pregnant again and gave birth to my son But grief isn’t something you simply leave behind, it weaves itself into who you are That loss transformed me It changed how I view motherhood, healing, and what it means to show up for others in pain
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Out of that transformation, The Knotted Nurse was born I created this space to support women navigating pregnancy loss, infertility, and grief. As a nurse and a grief coach, I combine my professional training with lived experience and deep empathy to guide others through what no one should face alone
Twins: A Thread Through It All
Twins are woven into every part of my story, from the joy of learning to love them as a teen, to the heartbreak of losing my own That duality, love and loss, is what drives my passion to support others with honesty, compassion, and hope.
GREAT EXPECTATIONS AWAIT
Support for New and Expecting Parents of Multiples
Welcoming twins, or more, is an extraordinary journey, filled with double the joy and sometimes double the questions. For some families, multiples continue a family tradition For others, the news comes as a total surprise. Whether you cried happy tears or thought, “Be careful what you wish for!”, discovering you're expecting twins, triplets, or more marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter
From pregnancy to toddlerhood, each phase of the multiples journey presents unique challenges, and Multiples of America is here to walk with you every step of the way
Expecting Multiples: What Now?
From the moment of that first ultrasound, parents of multiples are filled with questions:
How can I prepare for two (or more) babies? What should I expect during pregnancy and those first few months at home?
How will I sleep when both babies are waking up all night?
Is there a secret to helping twins play peacefully?
Multiples of America offers an Expecting Multiples Toolkit exclusively for members, packed with guidance on preparing your home, understanding birth scenarios, and setting realistic expectations. Many of our local clubs also provide hands-on support like welcome baskets, new parent groups, and meal trains
Free Online Series: Great Expectations Multiplied
To provide even more support during the early parenting years, we’re proud to present our upcoming seminar series:
Great Expectations Multiplied, 10 live Zoom sessions from October 2025 through June 2026 These sessions are free for all members of Multiples of America and designed specifically for expecting and new parents of twins, triplets, and beyond You can attend as many or as few sessions as you'd like
Seminar Topics Include:
Expecting Multiples: What to Know
NICU Basics: Preparing Emotionally and Practically
Transitioning Home After the Hospital
Nutrition for Newborns and Toddlers
Sleep Tips for Multiples
Managing Behavior in the Early Years
Caring for Yourself as a Parent (including Postpartum Depression)
Encouraging Early Learning & Development
Sessions will be led by professionals specializing in twinspecific topics, sleep, nutrition, child development, and more
Why Join Multiples of America?
As a national nonprofit, Multiples of America connects parents of multiples with a network of support, researchbased information, and practical tools for the journey ahead.
Members receive:
Access to free parenting seminars
A subscription to our eMagazine
Online and in-person community events
Articles, expert tips, and mental health resources
Local club support or affiliate membership for families without a nearby group
Find a local club or join as an affiliate member: www multiplesofamerica org
Stay Connected
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on events, helpful tips, and community spotlights.
Explore our Connections Corner blog for real stories and practical wisdom from other parents of multiples. Together, we’re here to help you thrive on your unique parenting journey, because the joy (and questions!) of raising multiples are meant to be shared.
TWIN PARENTING HACKS FOR THE SUMMER
Tips to Keep Your Cool While Making Memories
Summer with twins can be magical
Long sunny days, spontaneous adventures, and lots of memory-making moments But let’s be real: it can also be exhausting Double the sunscreen, double the snacks, double the meltdowns. Whether you're planning beach outings or staying close to home, here are some practical summer hacks to help twin parents stay sane, safe, and even squeeze in some fun
1. Pack Once, Use Twice
Instead of carrying two of everything, focus on multipurpose items A large muslin blanket can work as a sunshade, picnic mat, or nursing cover. A shared diaper bag with well-labeled compartments saves time and space, and you’ll thank yourself for keeping it stocked with travel-size essentials all summer long
2. Embrace the Power of Schedule (But Stay Flexible)
While summer can throw off routines, twins thrive on predictability Try to stick to your usual nap and meal times, even if you're out and about Bringing portable white noise machines and blackout covers can help with on-the-go naps But also, give yourself grace It’s okay if the schedule goes off course once in a while!
3. Twin-Proof Your Backyard
Create a twin-friendly play zone at home Invest in a small splash pad or water table to cool off while staying safely in your own space Shade tents, a small inflatable pool, or even a big bucket of water with toys can provide hours of entertainment with minimal setup
4. Keep Cool (Literally and Emotionally)
Summer heat can make everyone cranky. Dress your twins in light, breathable clothing and keep water bottles handy. For yourself, have a cooling spray or a chilled washcloth ready for quick refreshment And remember, short breaks are essential, even if it's just a quiet five minutes with an iced coffee.
5. Simplify Outings
Look for twin-friendly spots with good shade, easy parking, and clean bathrooms Twin strollers, baby carriers, or even a wagon can make outings smoother And don’t forget: saying “yes” to help from others can be your biggest summer win. This summer, give yourself permission to do less, laugh more, and enjoy the moments, one twin meltdown, beach day, or popsicle at a time
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