Pregnant with a 3 yo and wondering how I'll cope with 2..

[jem899]

I know everyone says the second baby slots in, and god I'm hoping that's the case, but DS aged 3 is bloody hard work and very full on for DH and I and I'm becoming increasingly concerned about how I'm gonna deal with 2.

DS won't play alone, at all, he's very very moany and whiny, he doesn't need a nap but he does as the same time so he's either overly tired by late afternoon, or he has a nap and he's up till 9/10pm in return, and he doesn't really eat much.
He's also very boisterous and physically demanding, and I'm concerned how baby 2 is going to affect him.

Does anyone have any tips or words of wisdom?

My first was nearly 4 when I had my second child, he was in nursery so that helped a lot. I was lucky that second son was a really good sleeper, partly I think because I went to bed at 9 pm with my first son when we went to bed. My first wasn’t boisterous but was clingy and always wanted me to play with him. I did notice that as soon as I sat down to feed baby that my elder son would want something so I made sure he had a drink and a snack as well, but there was times when he had to wait for certain things, but yes new baby was easier as you just have to get on with it.

Do you want another baby OP? You don't have to

Wondered this often throughout my current pregnancy as I also have a whirlwind 3yo. But at the end of the day I think somehow you just have to manage and number 2 slots in where they can! Due any day now so will find out soon enough..

I think 3 years is a pretty average gap so I would think you'll manage just as well as all the other people who have children 3 years apart.

Have faith - you'll be fine!

I have one word of wisdom: NURSERY

As others have said you figure it out.

Is the older one in nursery, it's great for running the legs off them.

Start trying to promote some independent play where possible. Does he play with puzzles, try getting him to take the lead a bit. Books can easily be read while breastfeeding.

Get a double buggy ( I got the out n about one) and take them to the park. Set challenges for him. How fast can you run to x. Can you climb y?

Also involve baby. Can you show baby how to go down the slide? Can you show baby how to kick the ball?

I have a 7 week old and a very boisterous 3 year old. I won't lie it's tough but you will make it through.