When you find out that you are having twins, you will experience a range of emotions.
Be prepared for this array of feelings:
Fear
You’ll experience fear. Fear of what? Fear of the unknown. You realize that having twins will not be easy. You’re not afraid of hard work but you don’t really know what your reality will be like.
One Solution: Fear not, my friend. Many have gone down this road before. We’re here to help.
Poor
You’ll think: “How am I going to afford twins?” Your mind will race ahead to double everything – clothes, bikes, college tuition, weddings, etc.
One Solution: Think “used.” Used clothes, strollers, car seats, toys, etc. are all great to help mute the financial burden of twins.
Cramped
You’ll think: “How am I going to fit all these kids in my current house? Where will they sleep? Where will we put double the baby stuff like strollers, car seats, baby swings, and the like?”
One Solution: Unless you’re in a one bedroom apartment, you don’t have to go buy a new house to accommodate your twins. You can make do with what you have.
Sick
You’ll get sick to your stomach as you try to process all these other emotions and thoughts. You’ll be nervous with a mix of being overwhelmed and stressed.
One Solution: Don’t eat much if you feel sick to your stomach. Stick with liquids so you don’t get dehydrated. Resort to protein bars or shakes to keep your caloric intake up. You also may not get much sleep that first night (or beyond) because your mind is racing, but that is just a preview of life with newborns.
Helpless
Odds are, these are your first twins. They may even be your first kids. You’ll think “What am I suppose to do?”
One Solution: There are plenty of other fathers of twins out there. If we can do it, so can you. You can get help from others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Skeptical
You’ll think: “Really? My wife looks the same. Is she really pregnant with twins?” Your ultrasounds are surreal. Yes, there are two little heartbeats. But it is hard to believe it is real.
One Solution: Pinch yourself. It is real. They don’t fake ultrasounds except in movies and on TV.
Logistically Challenged
“How can I possibly care for two babies at the same time?” Taking care of one baby seems overwhelming enough. “How can I physically hold, cuddle, change, dress, soothe, or feed two at once?”
One Solution: Get helpers. If you are alone with the kids, it is fine to take turns. Change one at a time. Feed one at a time.
Excited
You’re going to be a father of twins. You are in an elite fraternity. That is awesome! If you ever wanted to prove what a great dad you are, this is your chance.
One Solution: Keep the excitement. Think ahead to playing with your twins and don’t be afraid to make plans for the fun times ahead.
What would you add to the list?
