Is the transition from 1 child to 2 difficult?

Question

When you had your second child was it a little more difficult on you?

If so in what ways?

My little girl is 3 years old

Answer 1

It does depend on the age gap... mine were 5 years apart. So, the oldest was actually in the phase of wanting to help out as much as she could. She also wasn't in the jealous phase anymore, so that really helped a lot also. The only parts where I found it difficult was trying to get two children different places, trying to keep nap schedules and stuff when one was in kindergarten and the other was only a few months old. Now, at 2 and 7, they are very good friends and playmates.

Answer 2

Three years is a good space -- our kids are 18, 15 and almost 10. The oldest was able to do a fair bit for herself when the second was born, and they were close enough in age that they liked a lot of the same things. They're still very close, even though the big one's in college now (they enjoyed both being in high school last year), yet they're also very different.

When the third was born, our oldest was a TREMENDOUS help to her mom, who had an unplanned C-section and a rough time recovering. "Every new mom should be issued an eight-year-old," she used to say.

Answer 3

My daughter was 4 when my second one was born. In some ways it was difficult, as I was essentially a first-time mother (adopted my oldest at 2 1/2). However, for the most part it was OK. My older daughter was at the age when she was potty-trained, could dress herself, brush her own teeth, etc. This helped a lot as I found an infant takes up a lot of time! The biggest challenge was making sure my older daughter didn't feel left out. I tried to involve her from the beginning. She went to several of my sonograms with me and took pictures to show and tell at preschool. I started a photo album for her that included pictures of her with me when I was pregnant and then pictures of her and the baby. I also tried to make sure we had one on one time together. I found going from 2 to 3 children much more difficult, especially as my middle daughter was only 21 months when the 3rd baby was born (and very attached to me). I could no longer rely on my husband to entertain/care for one while I was with the other. One of us is always outnumbered. We also needed a bigger car (due to new carseat law), bigger house, etc. I am sure you will manage fine- your daughter is at a good age. I wish you luck- enjoy!

Answer 4

Well there is probably a little more juggling at the start but I found that I was much more relaxed with the second baby...things I used to stress out about with the first just didn't seem to matter as much with the second so things seemed to flow a little better...also when the baby gets a little older it is definitely easier as they entertain one another.

Answer 5

Only if they are really close in age. I got pregnant with my 2nd child when my oldest was 3. By the time I had the baby, the oldest was in preschool and nearly 4 years old.

Answer 6

its both difficult and easier in many ways. first u have had the experience of parenting with the first child and you might find it handy. but it is difficult the other times when you have to handle both kids at the same time especially when the first kid is still small. he will become very irritable and nosy and will do things to keep you around but it can be handled tactfully though it will take time. try to give the first kid as much attention as you can. try to involve him/her into chores for the new baby. make 1st child feel important though its tough job.

Answer 7

Not really. Going from 2 to 3 is a bit more challenging, and in my oppinion you have the best possible age spread. You will be amazed at how much your toddler will want to help and can be of help to you.

Sleep is over rated!!!! We haven`t slept through the night in 21 years!

Answer 8

it was hard on me, my daughter will be 2 next month, and my son just turned 5 months old this month. I had to get used to them not sleeping at the same time, and sharing my time. I thought that my daughter would be jealous, but she is great with her brother. The hardest thing for me was that my daughter NEVER cried, unless she was very sick, (and that was only one time), and my son crys all the time. That and he eats twice as much as she did. but it is great having them so close together... Good luck if you are planning a 2nd child

Answer 9

No. It is quite normal. Most cars fit two kids, meals are generally made for a family of four, treats often come in even amounts.

You will just be running around more. Oh yes, your water bills will increase.

One further point, you will have twice the fun as a parent!!!

Answer 10

it can be hard but only in the way of sleepless nights coming back (being tied while the eldest want to play) and going out with the kids without your partner.

Its harder for your child to take she/he is used to all mums attention just try to get him/her to help (passing you wetwipes while doing a bum change) when you bring the new baby back to the house make sure your oldest child is out put the baby in the cot and place a sweet in there too when your eldest child comes home make sure no one is around the baby and take him/her to see it and when he/she is looking at it get the sweet and give it to your oldest child saying that his/her baby sister/brother got it for them then get your eldest to give the new born a kiss to say thank you. it brings them closer together and starts the bonding. the mrs and I done this with our kids we have chloe who's 2 and callum who's 7 months make sure dad does his share too ;)