One Right After the Other {Babies Close in Age}

“My kids are 15 months apart” – my answer to the question I get asked quite often by friends and strangers alike. They are essentially two under 2, with the oldest turning 3 years old this year. So many parents will tell you that having kids close in age can be both fun and challenging. I’m pretty sure other words used to describe it would be whirlwind, fog, circus… 

Here are just a handful of truths about having babies close in age:

Double the diapers, wipes … and poop. Seriously. We haven’t quite hit the potty-trained milestone so we’re still elbow deep. But the good thing is you get into a groove, constantly beating your own diaper changing time and learning the exact science of minimum wipe usage.

Double the amount of food you are cutting up at every meal. My husband and I tag team on this one a lot. I’m not sure at what point this ends and we let them eat like real humans, but I’m looking forward to it.

Double the stuff – toys, clothes, gear, etc. Two highchairs, two carseats … and that means more to clean too. There are more toys to organize, or more opportunities for them to learn to clean up, however you choose to look at it.

Extreme double stroller love. Any time we’re out with the stroller, at least one person compliments it. It’s a sit and stand, transform 100+ ways stroller with a cup holder for my coffee. I love it, but it’s a little heavier than I’d like and a bit bulky to maneuver through narrow spaces. 

Double the play. They play with all the same toys. She builds blocks and he knocks them down. Or he’ll want to play with whatever she has in her hands. The word “mine” is happening a lot lately. They crack each other up while splashing in the bath tub or bouncing around on her bed. They play chase down the hall and often pretend to tickle one another.

Double the noise. Either they’re both laughing hysterically, and loudly, or someone is crying. Or whining. Or just talking really loudly.

Double the time to prepare for all departures and arrivals … or at least add an extra 15 minutes. Packing and silliness are mainly to blame. I always check the diaper bag before I leave – for enough diapers, extra set of clothes, books to keep busy, snacks and cups. Do we have the stroller? Now that both kids are walking, any time their feet hit the front yard they think it’s a game. They’re running in the lawn and around the car – about three laps until they slow down enough to be caught and buckled in their side. Make it 20 minutes if only one parent is present.

One thing is definitely true with kids close in age – there’s never a dull moment. And of course, two littles means double the snuggles and kisses, even if some of them are sloppy!