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2 young children, CONTINUED ...Published: January, 2010

But as any mother will say, the pros far outweigh the cons. Even in practical matters, Dart says there are advantages to having two boys so close in age.
   
“They can play together with the same age-appropriate toys. I can still nap them at the same time, and they go to bed at night at the same time,” she says. “If clothes are still in good condition from the oldest, the youngest uses it as well. Baby items are very costly. Having them close together enabled us not to have to repurchase baby goods or have to store them.”
   
Reynolds agrees.

“They are each other’s best friends and always have someone to play with,” she says. “Unlike my friends, whose children want her with them at all times, I’m often like the third wheel.”


TODDLER TIMES TWO: COPING STRATEGIES
Having children close together can be very trying during the early years. It will seem like an endless cycle of diaper changes, nighttime feedings and round-the-clock chores. But there are advantages: They have built-in playmates and often have similar activities and friends. As a result, siblings close in age tend to keep that closeness throughout life.
   
It isn’t easy when they’re young, though, and as a family, you will be stretched in many ways. Here are a few tips for making it work:

> If your older child is younger than 2, he will not be ready to take on the big broth-er role. He will still need to be treated like the baby he is.
> Don’t graduate the older child into big-kid furniture until he is ready. It may be expensive, but it’s worth the investment. Don’t risk an injury.
> Be flexible! Your house may be messy for a while, but that will ease up after a few years.

Source: drgreene.com

Caitlin Adams is an OC Family magazine intern.