5 Tips For New Moms Of Baby # 2

When you're a first time Mom you are on a mission for perfection. You have all the latest parenting books, your pediatrician is God, and name brands are not a question. Then comes sweet baby #2. Well, things are different this time. The parenting books are collecting dust somewhere, you consult Google before deciding to call your pediatrician, and hand-me-downs are golden. Now that you've learned the ropes and loosened the reigns a little, here's a few more tips that Mommy's of baby #2 might find useful.

1. It's okay if you miss a monthly photo shoot.

My first child has a gazillion pictures AND videos. Each month I made sure to capture a moment to commemorate the milestone. But once you have two kids to run after and tend to, photo sessions aren't so high on the list. It's okay. This doesn't mean you no longer care, it means you're busy being a great Mom! Don't fret, you'll find time to snap a few shots!

2. Don't let the baby's nap schedule dictate your family's life.

You're a Mom of two now. That means you're on the move and multi-tasking like never before. As much as you want to make sure you're home when baby's nap time rolls around, it's usually not very convenient for you. Don't feel overwhelmed. Go where you need to go, and get done what you need to get done. The more your young ones are on the go, the easier it will become for them to catch some Z's, despite being home. AND the easier your life will be! You got this Momma!

3. Let Grandma and Grandpa keep them overnight.

YES! If your parents are anything like mine, they jump at the chance to spend oodles of time with your children. Take advantage! Trust me, they don't mind. I know with baby #1, the thought of leaving them overnight can be especially worrisome. I mean, nobody can care for them like you. But by baby #2 you'll find you need a break, even if it's just from one. Sometimes the best thing we can do for our children is take a moment to relax and re-center ourselves. In come Grandma and Grandpa to the rescue!

4. Letting your baby cry it out doesn't make you a negligent Mother.

There are so many different methods of teaching your baby to sleep through the night. With your first child you may have cringed at the thought of allowing your baby to CIO. How mean that would be! With baby #2 you may feel ready to break away from co-sleeping and reclaim your bed. I'm not saying this is the best choice for a newborn, but by 4-6 months give it a try. You're not neglecting your child or inflicting cruelty. You're being a proactive Mother who is ready for her baby (and the rest of her family) to sleep soundly through the night. Lots of loving Mommies choose this method and succeed!

5. Baby #2 will never know the sweetness of your undivided attention; And it's okay.

In fact, it's normal, and all Mother's of multiple kids go through it. As you continue to gain experience and find your groove (which is an ever changing endeavor) you will also find ways to get one on one time and personal moments with each child. Though as Mom's it's our nature to feel guilty, as a seasoned Mom, I'm assuring you there is no need. Don't waste your energy on the negative, turn it into fuel to be the best Mommy you can be today! You never know what tomorrow will bring, so enjoy every second!

Written By: Kelly Loya Perez