What I Didn't Expect: Managing Time with Two Kids

When baby #2 enters your world, it's not enough to say everything changes. There is of course the joys and challenges of having a newborn again only, you're still responsible for the first little human you have. Schedules, routines, consistency, it all changes with that new bundle. So, how do you manage it?

We went straight to the source, and spoke with Inna Petz, an LA based mom and blogger, and Dr. Brown's Ambassador. Here's what she has to say about what it's like managing time with two kids and what she didn't expect about the big change.

How do you manage your time as a mother of two little ones?

Becoming a mother of two children changed just about everything for me. My once solid routine with just one child, had to be completely modified to suit baby #2. One thing that helps me manage time is to get as many things done as I possibly can during baby's nap time. My toddler no longer takes a day nap, so she is usually around me and having her "downtime" while baby #2 naps.

During those nap periods, I will try and shower, tidy, prep dinner, and get ready for the rest of my day. It may not always be a productive nap time, but I have learned that if I prioritize that first nap time it sets the tone for the rest of my day.

"What organizational strategies have helped you the most?"

I try to keep certain parts of the home organized, like bookshelves, rooms, and closets. Toys can easily be cleaned up throughout the day, and a quick tidy up when the girls are down for sleep makes the next day feel like a clean slate.

Secondly, kids seem to be hungry all day long, so there is always a need for snacks. I prepare healthy/nutritional snacks ahead of time in the Travel Fresh Bowl and Spoon and Snack-A-Pillar Snack And Dipping Cups, which makes it easier for me to just grab-and-go, even if we are at home. It also helps to make good and healthy snack choices a little bit easier on busy days.

Prepping for leaving the home with kids ahead of time is essential for me as well. Snacks are a must when we leave the home even for a couple of hours, so pre-packing saves me time and sanity before heading out the door! Using Dr. Brown's Designed to Nourish Snack Cups help keep the mess manageable while we are out-and-about (especially in the car!). We are also in the process of teaching my toddler independence, as she can manage to open the snacks on her own and help out her little sister.

Do you have any tips or advice to offer to new/expectant moms or moms who may be expecting/planning for baby #2?

I think that creating a consistent routine is the most important aspect of being a parent. Establishing a solid routine from day one with your child will make your days run smoother and more predictable. Babies and children thrive off of a routine, as well, so it helps when it's established at a young age. It doesn't mean that each day will run perfectly smoothly, but at least it'll help you as a parent to get a good rhythm for the days to come.

For example, setting up a solid nighttime routine is essential in helping your little one wind-down and understand when it's time for bed. My girls get excited when reaching for their Giraffe Infant-To-Toddler-Toothbrush and Flamingo Toddler Toothbrush. These toothbrushes make the whole process fun and enjoyable for them.

Is there anything you weren't expecting about managing time with one kid vs. two kids?

I would say, I didn't expect to always be so behind on my to-do list. Having baby #2 really set things back for me and reminded me of my limitations. It also put into perspective that my children are my first priority, and that they're more important than my to-do list. Even though I have a perfectionist personality, I have come to accept that there is nothing more important than spending time with my children and that everything else can wait.

About the author:

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Inna Petz

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I'm a Los Angeles based mama who strives to be the do-it-all-wifey patterned by Proverbs 31. You can usually find me in the kitchen attempting another recipe, working on a DIY project, sipping on my second cup of coffee, or reading something that inspires me. I'm a passionate homemaker, who sees the joy in the everyday messiness of life while mothering one day at a time.