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How to manage a newborn and toddler with a partner who works away

3 replies

geralberal · 14/03/2025 21:49

Hormones are still all over the place but I can’t stop crying tonight as the reality of managing a newborn who likes to be held all the time and a very energetic toddler kicks in. Baby is currently 10 days old and DP is going back away on Monday. He works away Monday - Friday. DS1 is in nursery 2 days a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays. My parents used to have him 2 days a week as I worked 4 days a week and the plan is for them to still have him one of those days. DS1 is a great sleeper, goes down for 7 without a peep and wakes up the next morning between 6-6:30. Newborn DS2 wakes every 1.5-2 hours max, we are taking it in turns getting up (DP has actually done more wake ups than me) but even so I’m really struggling with the exhaustion and trying to juggle everything. It’s a lot harder than I imagined it to be and I can’t see how I’m going to manage and ensure both kids get enough attention and are well looked after. It’s just not fair on my first, I know he’s feeling it and it’s only going to get worse. Is there anyone who has a similar situation and alone a lot with 2 small children and any advice?

DS1 slept through the night since he was 6 weeks old and we managed fine but I really can’t see us being that lucky again. I can’t even remember what routine I used to have for DS1 when he was a baby to slightly follow that in a month or so.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
RobinEllacotStrike · 14/03/2025 22:00

Congratulations on your new baby. 👶 💜

all I can remember about this time is go slowly. Remove all expectations, one thing at a time.

getting out the door on time to get dc1 to & from nursery is epic.

stay hydrated.

try not to worry about much. Get healthy snacks in. You will find your new routine & rhythm soon enough.

Abracadabra1 · 14/03/2025 22:02

A sling is great, keeps your hands free for sorting toddler.
Getting out for a short walk every day helps, it's hard, but will get easier 😊

toastwithbutter · 14/03/2025 22:06

You’re only 10 days in. One day at a time! Small wins. Batch cook, fresh air, lots of caffeine, mini tidy ups, use a sling, use the tv and don’t feel bad, call on family to help, find some decent soft plays where you can watch toddler while cuddling baby. Mine are now 1 and just 4 and it’s easier in some ways but harder now they run in opposite directions

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