What I've Learned in 6 Months with Twins

It is hard to believe that just over 6 months ago my world was rocked with the addition of two baby girls. The pair has charmed and challenged me and my wife. Along the way we made some observations as to best tackle the tandem.

1. Make a schedule - a predictable plan has made each week consistent and manageable. Assigning tasks to specific days of the week ensure consistent delivery of mission critical services. Or, in a non-consulting speak, chores and other tasks occur on particular nights of the week. It creates a balance between work and child care obligations.

2. Feedings take place the same time every day - feedings are the foundation of the day for adults and babies alike. Upon returning home from the hospital we were exhausted. We attempted on-demand feedings the first few days but found we were unable to account for each baby's intake. We were attempting to provide meals every 4 hours, but that simple math was too much for our fatigued minds. The solution was to create a consistent feeding plan occurring at 3, 7 and 11.

3. Distribute tasks - 'divide and conquer'. Two babies can seem daunting, but two parents working together with purpose can tackle any challenge. Bath time consists of one parent washing one while the other dresses the other.

4. Assess and adapt - things don't always go as planned, be prepared to pivot and take a new approach. Frank conversations about what is working and what isn't can help enforce an approach or explore an alternative solution.

5. Say 'yes' to help - you could probably do this alone, but why? Take folks up on their offers to help. Don't bogart the babies - let others participate and feed.

While there are countless other lessons that have been learned along the way, these are the stand out solutions that have made life manageable.