Going from zero to one is a perfect life-changer. Plus, everyone around you is rapt. Going from one to two feels great. Plus, everyone around you congratulates you endlessly. But how does life change when you go from two children to three?
Preparing your children
The good news: Bringing home a new baby can be really exciting for brothers and sisters. Yes, children are always… children and they are all born with “my, me, mine” tendencies. But your kids have already learnt to share your love and attention, and they actually enjoy having one another – and a new baby!
And the “bad” news: Your kids may be worried about how their routine and relationship with you is going to change. Before your new baby is born, help them feel positive about the new member of the family. Extra tip: if your children are approaching major milestones, like potty training or moving from a crib to a bed, try to make those changes well before your due date or put them off until after the baby has been home for a while. Once the baby is home, help your other kids adjust to the changes, and include them as much as possible in the daily activities involving the baby. For example, pushing a stroller or feeding a baby can be fun for a toddlers! In general, the more included your older kids are, the less isolated they feel. And that’s all; with a little planning and preparation, you can easily get your kids ready for the newest addition to your family.
Preparing yourself
The good news: Having three kids may be an easier transition than you think. You know you can do it because you have done it before. Plus, you know what you need so you don’t have to spend endless hours researching baby products or expensive items and wasting your money on toys your newborn will never pick up!
And the “bad” news: The juggling starts before the new baby is born; a third pregnancy can be harder, simply because you have to look after two children too! And then… getting all your children in their car seats or hugging them at the same time is like a particularly strange game of Jenga; with added grumbles! Plus, your partner and you are simply outnumbered as there is no equal number of kids and adults in your family! Having three kids totally changes the family dynamic. So what can you do? Well, they say it takes a village to raise a family; nowadays, you just have to “create” that village! Find out how your relatives and friends can help you, and then get extra help as soon as possible – a professional nanny or babysitter can make your life so much easier!
All in all, yes, life with three kids can be chaotic. But there’s something about the chaos that comes with having three children that makes life much more enjoyable. There are three little people who look up to you with wide eyes and offer endless hugs and kisses. As the Latin saying goes, “Omne trium perfectum” – everything that comes in threes is perfect!
Trust Nannuka to find experienced babysitters and nannies to help you through this demanding period of your family’s life and enjoy every single moment of motherhood!