I had this age gap and found it waaay easier going from 1-2 and 0-1 and I’ve had no help from family or friends, none whatsoever
things I’ve noticed:
expect a little regression in the toddler, wanting to be the baby again, my girl has started trying to take dummies wherever she can find them. She’s not really fussed on potty training now, again it’s the baby thing, she’s amazing at nursery but at home no and she’s 2yr 8 months.
expect toddler to be jealous at first BUT they adapt quickly, but do expect some stealing of baby’s toys when he gets a bit older.
how are you planning on feeding baby? This can be a big one as the early breastfeeding days can be challenging.
busy box for feeding
dont bother with a Moses basket downstairs the toddler will wake baby, get a carrier instead
get partner to max out the time they can take off. My Husband used his 2 weeks pat leave and then did 3 weeks annual leave and then went back 4 days a week until Baby was 10 weeks.
get a slow cooker, things you can bung in the night before turn on and turn off in the morning. Save any heavy cooking
picky plates for lunch can be great- grated cheese, some meat slices ,boiled eggs, veggies, dips some sort of rotation of this, again save the cooking.
try and get toddler involved in baby stuff so they don’t always feel sidelined (choosing clothes, passing nappies etc)
accept that screen time will happen and that the house will be messy
if you can, have one adventure day a week where toddler gets out and about, I’m not talking expensive but say to the children area of the library, a soft play, a nice long walk and a picnic in the park, splash pad if you’ve got one close so they don’t feel that it’s all about the baby
the bond between my 2 is so heartwarming and incredible, toddlers are so full of love and the baby adores her. Best of luck sweet, it will be great!