Twin Newborn Sleep and Feeding Routine. My Tips.

  When you find out you are having twins you automatically think of all the things you will need to buy- in double. What about feeding? This is a quick summary for those who have newborn twins and how I handle feeding two at the same time. I bottle feed, so my advice is more to do with this. If breast feeding, be sure to ask advice from breast feeding professionals so that feeding can go as smoothly as possible.  

 Two at the same time? Yes that’s right!  

 While it may be hard to imagine at first, this is crucial so that there is enough time for other things in the day, like other children and housework. Even showering LOL.   As most twins are born premature, this will usually be three hourly until they gain weight.   This is my routine, although it is flexible by necessity. There are two babies after all!  

7:00 - Change the first baby’s nappy.  Give feed. Either breast or bottle. Try to keep to a minimum of 20 minutes.            

Burp baby. Trying to keep this time short as well.   

 7:30- Do the same for the other baby!   

 8:00- Back to bed. 

  Whichever baby fed first, they will feed first next time. Unless of course baby is hungry and demanding it NOW.   Each baby will have their own individual personality and therefore their own style of feeding. One might like to be burped longer or need more cuddle time.   While sometimes it will take longer, I aim for one hour up and two hours sleep time for the babies. Don’t be afraid to put one down even without burping if the other is crying for a feed. As they get older they should settle into this routine well and can be adapted to 4 hourly.  

Other sanity savers. 

  Have nappies, wipes and bibs nearby and ready to go.  

Prepare bottles in advance if bottle feeding. 

Have enough bottles for 24 hours. This way you can save time by washing up once a day.  

Be sure to stock up on formula.  

If someone offers to help. Let them feed one of the twins for you. 

  Please try not to stress. Take the time to enjoy your twins!!!