Eek it's going to be a 16 month age gap - what do I need to know - wise advice please.....

[whattheheck]

Did a PG test last night after suddenly felt rank at the smell of fish frying and wondered when my last period had been. Positive. How on earth that happened I don't know.....

My lovely lovely DD is 7 months. This was not meant to happen yet!

Am extremely nervous at the thought of two little ones so close together. Can anyone who's had such a small gap give me some advice (and reassurance if possible) PLEASE

yours in shock

[ByTheSea]

Just want to say that my sister and I are sixteen months apart. She is, and has always been, my best friend in life. We are now in our mid to late forties.

[docket]

Congratulations!

I think it's all swings and roundabouts with age gaps. There are 19 months between DS and DD and yes, it was tough for the first bit but there are real advantages IMO too - off the top of my head:

• DS was never jealous and can't remember a time when DD wasn't there
• It wasn't like going back to baby mode because I was still in it
• from fairly early on they could both be amused by the same activities, this is still the case
• now at 3 and nearly 5 they are the best of friends (except when they are fighting!)

It will be fine!!

[whattheheck]

ByTheSEa - that's lovely

docket how on earth did you manage the baby/toddler bit though. I have so loved DD and she has been a little dream to look after. Am terrified of juggling too.

Am worried that she will suffer from lack of attention too....

[docket]

I guess I just tried to carry on doing what I would have done before DD arrived so that the disruption to DS was as minimal as it could be. A sling is good - keeps baby happy and leaves arms free to deal with toddler.

[Colonelcupcake]

I have a 12 month gap, don't stress the small things be more relaxed with housework (it won't get done)

It is very hard in the beginning try to enlist as much help as possible to start with, use the pregnancy time to try and get your toddler as independant as you can on simple skills like getting dressed undressed etc

As soon as the new baby can move I found it all got easier I did BLW with the second one as well which meant mealtimes became so much easier.

[girlsyearapart]

Congratulations to you!
You'll never regret it.
Mine are a year and 3 days apart and have just turned 1 and 2.
We are now trying for a third.
It will be hard at times but all the friends I made with my eldest dd who are now pregnant/ttc their 2nd wish they'd done the same as us.
Try to get your toddler out of habits that can't be continued when you have a newborn eg sleeping in with you,being rocked or whatever to sleep, constant picking up. Encourage them to feed themself and buy a dolly or visit other babies to get them used to it.
We had absolutely no jealousy at all. dd1 is very protective of her sister in fact.
You'll be fine.