Twin Toddlers Archives | Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site

Halloween Costumes for Twin Toddlers: Cute, Scary, Classic, and More

Twiniversity — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:34:16 +0000

Looking for inspiration for what to dress your toddler twinnies up as this Halloween? We asked the Twiniversity community for their input on the best Halloween costumes for twin toddlers, and they shared the cutest, funniest, and most charming ideas! When autumn comes around, it’s only a matter of time until Halloween is here! So if you want some inspiration for twin toddler Halloween costumes, we’ve got you covered! We recently asked our twin parent community: What were your favorite Halloween costumes for your twins over the years? And in this article, we’ll be sharing the best toddler twin costumes with you! Princess Leah and Luke Skywalker from Star Wars Wayne and Garth from Wayne’s World Forest and Jenny from Forest Gump Elliot and Gerty with E.T. Del Boy and Rodney (from Only Fools and Horses) Spider and Spiderweb Mario and Luigi Dalmatian Puppies (from 101 Dalmatians) The Grady Twins (from The Shining) Dorothea and Lion (from The Wizard of Oz) Pig and cow (along with a farmer for twins plus 1) Ketchup and mustard Wednesday and Enid (from Wednesday, The Addams Family spinoff show) Slinky Dog (from Toy Story) Thing 1 and Thing 2 (from Cat in the Hat) Raggedy Ann and Andy More Halloween costumes for toddler twins “I was a pirate and my twins were my parrots.” — Kenzie “Peter Pan and tinker bell , Harry Potter and Hermione.” — Emily “Kirk and Spock, Squirtle and Charmander.” — Dana “Superman and Clark Kent and Scooby and Shaggy.” — Jeanette “We don’t really do Halloween in Australia, but for book week, I dressed my twins plus singleton as the three little pigs in costumes i made myself!” — Heidi “Cookie Monster and a cookie with a bow! (I have b/g twins).” — Kerry “A pair of crayons.” — Jenny “My girls were both versions of Boo from Monsters Inc!” — Sabrina “Mickey and Minnie Mouse.” — Lori “Mikey and Sulley” –— Lorrie “Peanut butter and jelly.” — Erica “FraTURTLE twins!” — Charlotte Want to see even more twin Halloween costume inspiration? Check out the original Facebook post here! Or peruse the articles below!

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Potty Training for Twins: Twin Parents Share How to Prepare

Twiniversity — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 15:20:26 +0000

When your twinnies start taking on toddlerhood, you may be wondering how best to approach potty training for twins. So we’ve rounded up some helpful tips for you from other twin parents who’ve been there! Whether you’re a brand new twin parent or your twins are reaching potty training age already, you’ve probably had your fair share of worries when thinking about getting TWO little ones to successfully use the potty. Keep reading for honest tips from real twin parents. Plus, at the end get a first-hand look at two twin moms’ full potty training stories and extra tips for what to prioritize before you officially start potty training YOUR twins. We asked our amazing community: How did you get yourself and your twins ready for potty training before officially starting? Here’s what twin parents had to say: “I waited until they were ready, makes it so much easier!” “We just did a long weekend without diapers and had two potty seats in the living room for lots of sitting on the seats. They were 3. We then did pull-ups on-the go-and only for bed for a while. I also drove with a potty seat 😂 I wasn’t wrangling them in any bathrooms.” “We followed the book/method “Oh Crap” and it worked like a charm in 3 days when they were just over 2.” “We did the three day method, and with one twin, the girl was successful after the three days and the other one was a full nine months later before he decided he was totally ready to do it . Once he decided it though he was out of diapers, completely even overnight and my daughter a year later is still in diapers overnight, she just sleep deeper.” “I had my daughter go with me before officially potty training her. She was about 3 years old. When she was ready, we did a weekend with no diapers. Had a few accidents but she got the hang of it over that weekend. Her twin brother on the other hand was habitually trained more recently. It was clockwork. He is special needs. They’re both almost 7 next month.” “A token chart which they LOVED. Every 5 pees and every poop on the toilet they got a sticker, etc.” “At least 3 days off work and nothing on the schedule.” “Read the ‘Oh Crap Potty Training’ book and made a concrete plan to tag team Got multiple small potties on Facebook marketplace.” “Give yourself a long weekend. 2 potties in the room you’re in most. Lots of wine and humor!” “Prep, prep, prep! Lots of reading and talking about starting.” “Roll up all the rugs and gather all the extra rag towels lol.” “Read books, went around the house and packed away all diapers together to donate.” “Used m & m’s as an incentive for a few weeks. Encouraged them to cheer each other on.” “Followed Big Little Feelings’ method and their advance prep tips.” How one twin mom potty trained her twins at separate times: My boys are 3 this July. I have had a potty in the play room since they were around 18 months, and then when they turned 2, I bought the steps and seat for the main toilet. One started showing an interest in using it and I decided in December we would try and potty train. I did plan to do them at the same time as I was off work but one was poorly. With twin one, I had a conversation about what we were doing and put undies on him. He wet himself maybe twice in the morning and each time was a bit upset and came to tell me. After that he was more aware and kept saying when he needed to go. He was trained in the 3-day window, but there were still accidents and poo’s were a bit more of a struggle. But he got there eventually. Twin two I potty trained last week using a different method. He was better with no pants. He struggled with poop, but we’re a week in, and he’s doing amazing for both. He says his tummy hurts when he actually needs the loo. Just remember they are individuals and might not be ready at the same time, and the methods might need adjusting to each. Also, don’t rush it. We tried twin 2 once before this time, and he just kept soiling himself and didn’t care, so we knew he wasn’t ready. Twin potty training advice from another twin mom based on a few twin potty training mishaps When my fraternal twins were about 15 months, I started mentally preparing myself for potty training. Like many others, I read “Oh Crap! Potty Training and felt like I had a decent understanding of where to start with potty training my twins. We had bought a training potty when they were around 21-22 months old, and one day around that time, my son showed interest in using the potty. So I let him pee in the potty, and he did it successfully. So I made the decision to officially begin potty training him starting the next morning with the whole no underwear on method. The first day or two he did pretty well, but then when it came to pooping in the potty, things started to go South. He pretty much refused to use the potty then and would pee himself without seeming to care at all. So long story short, we decided to pause on potty training and wait until they both actually turned two. Once we restarted a few months later, my son did much better. He would have accidents here and there, but I would say after 2 weeks he was pretty much potty trained. With my other twin though, we encountered a big mishap. After a few days into potty training she had a really tough time getting a BM out one time. It caused some discomfort and bleeding… Continue Reading Potty Training for Twins: Twin Parents Share How to Prepare

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The Terrible Twos with Twins

Amanda Hadley — Tue, 14 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000

The terrible twos. We’ve all heard the phrase and have probably witnessed it in public at least once, even if we didn’t realize it. I heard a standup comic say, “Nobody talks about the toddler stage cause they’re terrors!” Ha! That gave me a good chuckle, but the truth is, the underlining of her jokes were all real and true. I guess that’s one bright side to the terrible twos with twins; it’s funny when it’s not happening to you. Picture this: you ask your twins to wear a red shirt instead of a blue shirt, and instead of a “yes, mommy, whatever you say, mommy,” your child(ren) flings themselves to the ground and starts flopping around as if they were a fish out of water. Sound familiar? Well, my friend, in case you didn’t know, you are currently navigating the terrible twos with twins! So, what do you do when there are two that are terrible? Keep reading because we’ve got the strategies to save your sanity! What is the Terrible Twos? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “the terrible twos are characterized by increased physical activity, more expressive emotions, mood swings, and temper tantrums.” Now, we must mention that although this phase of childhood is called the terrible twos, these behaviors can start before age two and extend beyond it, varying widely from child to child. Either way, the terrible twos is the age where kids develop their own desires but have not yet mastered the art of expressing those desires. How do you know you’re in the thick of Terrible Twos? Here are some telltale signs that you’ve entered the chaos zone: Now that we’ve unpacked what the terrible twos look like, let’s talk about some strategies to manage those inevitable meltdowns. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the terrible twos with twins: Don’t Mess With Eating Schedules Regular meals and snacks help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can influence a toddler’s mood and behavior. When kids get too hungry, they can become irritable and more likely to act out. Plan meals and snacks at consistent times each day, ensuring they have a balanced diet with a good mix of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats. Keep snacks on hand for when hunger strikes unexpectedly, and try to avoid long stretches without food. Give Them a Heads-up About Potential Triggers Toddlers often struggle with transitions and new experiences. Talking them through what will happen ahead of time can ease anxiety and prevent meltdowns. For example, if you know you’re going to the doctor’s office, explain in simple terms what to expect. Use storytelling, toys, or role-playing to help them visualize the experience. By setting expectations, you can reduce fear and give them a sense of control over the situation. Don’t Cave In Sticking to your boundaries can be challenging, especially when faced with a full-blown tantrum. However, consistency is crucial for teaching toddlers about limits and consequences. If you cave into their demands during a tantrum, they learn that this behavior gets them what they want. Instead, remain calm, stay firm in your decisions, and offer comfort without giving in to unreasonable demands. Over time, they’ll understand that tantrums aren’t an effective strategy for getting their w Avoid Boredom Boredom can lead to mischief and tantrums, so it’s important to keep toddlers engaged and entertained. Create a variety of activities that stimulate their senses and encourage exploration. This could include art projects, building blocks, outdoor play, or interactive storytelling. Rotate toys and activities to keep things fresh, and be sure to join in the fun when you can. When they’re busy and happy, there’s less room for trouble. Be Consistent Consistency helps toddlers feel secure and understand what is expected of them. Whether it’s bedtime, mealtime, or discipline, keeping a consistent approach reduces confusion and makes it easier for them to follow rules. Establish clear routines and stick to them as much as possible, even when you’re tired or busy. When toddlers know what to expect, they’re less likely to act out due to uncertainty. Change Direction When Needed Toddlers can get fixated on things they shouldn’t do, leading to frustration for everyone involved. Instead of constantly saying “no,” try redirecting their attention to a more appropriate activity. For example, if they’re drawing on the walls, offer them paper or a chalkboard instead. Redirection is a positive way to guide behavior without escalating the situation. By shifting their focus, you can prevent a potential meltdown and encourage more appropriate play. Are you thinking this all ends once the twins turn three? Check out Can We Talk About Three Old Twins. When All Else Fails, Take a Break! As you’re reading this, you’re now thinking how do you establish these boundaries with two? Especially when one twin starts crying, the other will chime in and cry louder. This behavior has been given a name by the twin parent community: twin escalation syndrome. Isn’t it lovely? Not that this happens to all twins. On occasion, one of my twins will grow quiet while the other one has a meltdown. However, one piece of advice stood out for me: Take A Break! This advice was given to me by my mother-in-law, who has identical twin daughters. Breaks are important so you can be the best version of yourself for your twins. Otherwise, your mental, emotional, and physical battery is drained. Without breaks, you will be irritable, short-tempered, and tired, all of which are not good for your health! Whether you’re in the thick of the terrible twos or just preparing for them, it can be challenging. But remember, these are just a few trying moments—fleeting episodes within the span of brief moments in the 24-hour day. The rest of the time, twos are such an amazing age! They’re exploring, learning, and amazed at the world around them. Have patience, and give yourself grace during this time. And take breaks, lots of breaks!

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Realistic Twin Toddler Activities

Amanda Hadley — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000

I have fallen victim to “Pinterest ideals” on how to entertain my twin toddlers more than once. All the elaborate crafts, sensory boxes, and advanced STEM projects catch my eye, and then, 5 seconds into the activity, my twins lose interest, and I instantly regret my actions and start rethinking all of my life decisions. If you can relate (and I know you can), you are in luck. We have a list of REALISTIC twin toddler activities that are simple to produce and will keep your toddler’s attention for at least 10 minutes at a time! A toddler’s attention span typically lasts about 3 to 5 minutes per year of age, though it can often feel even shorter. This means there’s a wide window for activities to keep toddlers occupied from morning until nap time or beyond! When it comes to entertaining twin toddlers, I find that simpler activities are often better. Who has the time for elaborate crafts or outings, not to mention the cleanup? (I, for one, have been known to avoid painting like the plague simply because of the cleanup involved.) Relax, mama. We’ve got a list of activities for your twins that even the most exhausted twin mom can manage. These crafts, games, and other realistic activities for twin toddlers are simple to implement, and no exotic supplies or a party planning committee are needed! Twin Toddler Activities with Water Bath Time For Toys Set up a plastic bin outside, fill it with water, add some dish soap, and let your twins bathe their plastic toys. They can use sponges, cups for pouring, and even toothbrushes to scrub those toys clean. This is a great activity for a nice day outside. Pom Poms in the Tub If you’re going to have to do bath time anyway, you might as well take advantage of it. Turn bath time into a fun activity that will keep your twins busy for a little longer while you sit and enjoy a moment of “sitter-vising”. In this realistic twin toddler activity, you only need a bunch of colorful pom poms to drop into the tub and maybe a cup or bucket for scooping up those pom poms. The pom poms dry just fine (I scoop them out with a colander and squeeze out all the extra water). Just be sure to watch younger toddlers extra carefully, who may think the pom poms look delicious. Popsicle Bath Another spin on a bath time activity is the popsicle bath. I credit this brilliance to @busytoddler, and it is as simple as it sounds: let your twins have a popsicle in the bath! It contains the mess, and the toddlers will calmly and happily suck away. Even if they drop the popsicle into the water, it is so diluted that it won’t matter. Squirt Bottle Races My family and I set this up during a 4th of July barbeque, and it was a huge hit amongst the kids. You will need 2 long pieces of string, two disposable plastic cups, 2 squirt bottles, 1 plastic straw, a little bit of tape, and twins! Cut the straw in half and tape one half vertically to the side of a cup. Run a string through the straw. Do this with the second cup, too. Secure both ends of each string to trees or anything sturdy you have outside. They should be at about toddler shoulder level and parallel to each other. Now give each twin a squirt bottle filled with water (set to “stream” rather than “mist”) and instruct them to squirt into the cup to make it move along the string. Let the games begin! Freeze Some Toys in Ice Pretend that Elsa has come and frozen your twins’ toys in ice! Select some of their plastic toys to put into containers filled with water. Place them in the freezer overnight, and voila, you have a simple and realistic twin toddler activity. This will get their creative juices flowing as they try to figure out how to free their toys from the ice. They can use toy tools to chip away at the ice or spray bottles with warm water. When the fun wears off, or they get frustrated, just put the ice blocks in water and watch it melt. Twiniversity Tip: When you first take the ice out of the freezer, let it sit until you can remove it from the container. Silicone containers also make it easier to remove. Realistic twin toddler crafts Painter’s Tape There is a WORLD of ideas on the internet for painter’s tape activities. Painter’s tape is great because it’s not super sticky and won’t ruin anything you attach it to. You can make painter’s tape roads on the floor for their toy cars or painter’s tape bridges from one counter to the next in the kitchen and let them balance pom poms, popsicle sticks, or small toys on it. Run tape across a doorway/hallway at different heights and let them try to climb over or under it. You can even get different colors of tape and have your toddlers practice color-sorting their toys according to the colors of the tape. The possibilities are endless, and the cleanup is practically non-existent. Paper Bag Puppets I am possibly the least crafty mom in the history of twin moms, and I have even done this craft! Paper bags are already hand puppets, so all you need to do is decorate them. You do not have to use paint if you don’t want to. Instead, you can use stickers, tape, markers, a glue stick, googly eyes, felt, or colored construction paper to create animals, monsters, holiday-themed puppets, or my personal favorite, Baby Yoda. You can also let your toddlers go wild with no plan in mind and see what they come up with (as long as you wield the scissors). Plus, after their puppets are created, they can spend time playing with them and bringing them to life! Trace Twins on… Continue Reading Realistic Twin Toddler Activities

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Best Monthly Subscription Boxes for Kids

Amanda Hadley — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:30:00 +0000

What gift is an absolute game-changer in the present world and is literally the gift that keeps on giving? Monthly subscription boxes for kids! From tots to teens, there’s a universe of cool stuff out there curated by folks at KiwiCo, Ipsy, Highlights, CrateJoy, Amazon, and more. They’ve nailed it when it comes to captivating young minds, regardless of age or what floats their boat (you can gift them a kit where they will actually float their own boat!). The Lowdown on Monthly Subscription Boxes The Upside Picture this: monthly surprises that keep the excitement rolling well past Christmas day. There’s variety galore, catering to all tastes—STEM, artsy stuff, crafts, you name it, they’ve got it! Plus, monthly subscription boxes for kids are the ultimate time-saver for gift shopping (online) and, hello, doorstep delivery! And the best part? Learning is disguised as play! These boxes sneak into education through fun activities, making them a win-win for both kids and parents. The Flip Side Watch out for potential overwhelm! Too many subscriptions might clutter up the place and dull the sparkle of each delivery. Maybe try one subscription box and then evaluate through the year. It’s all about finding that balance. Then there’s the money side of things. Sure, one subscription might not break the bank, but if you start piling them up, those bills can sneak up on you faster than you’d think. And, you know, there’s the chance that the cool box you picked out doesn’t click with your kid’s interests. It happens! So, it’s all about finding that sweet spot where you get variety without blowing the budget and making sure the chosen boxes hit the right notes with your little one. Keep it fun and wallet-friendly. Monthly subscription boxes for kids undoubtedly offer a unique and engaging way to entertain, educate, and delight children across various ages and interests. Careful consideration and selection can ensure that the benefits outweigh any potential drawbacks, providing an ongoing source of joy and enrichment for the young recipient. Feeling overwhelmed with the number of gifts your kids get every year? Check out “The 4 Gift Rule: Simplify Your Christmas” Best Monthly Subscription Boxes for Kids of All Ages and Interests Whether you’ve got two little scientists, aspiring artists, or adventure-seekers (or any combination), we’ve put together a list that promises to uncover surprises that are designed to entertain, educate, and inspire every single month. KiwiCo Crates KiwiCo is for anyone and everyone, regardless of age. With an age and interest range so vast, you’re sure to find a perfect subscription for everyone. They have a Panda Crate specially for babies 0-36 months where they send you exactly what your twinnies developmentally need. But they also have hobby-specific crates, like the Yummy Crate (ages 6-14) for your mini chef or the Eureka Crate (ages 12-100) for your future engineers. KiwiCo Crates start at $16.95 a month and are designed for ages 0 to 100. Literati I’m a bit of a bookworm and a big fan of personalized picks, so I love Literati! You tell them about your reader, and five personalized books (that are appropriate for your reading level) are delivered to your door every month, but you only keep what you like! Literati Club subscription is $9.95 per month plus the cost of any books you choose to keep and are available for ages 0 to 14. Kidstir Have a little MasterChef Junior? They won’t be able to stay out of the kitchen when they get these step-by-step monthly cooking kits from the pros. And it will help them explore new cuisines, flavors, and techniques each month. Starting at $19.99/month and great for ages 4-14. Pura Vida Bracelets Tween and teen girls will love getting three of the newest and most popular bracelets from Pura Vida each month. And bonus, every bracelet helps support local Costa Rican artisans. Starting at $14.95/month and for ages tween and teen. Lovevery Play Kits I am obsessed with Lovevery Play Kits and think they are every parent’s dream, especially if you take a more Montessori approach to learning. You’ll receive a new one every 2-3 months with developmentally appropriate toys your child will love to revisit as they grow. Each kit includes access to expert research, guidance, tips, and play activities to support your child’s development. Starting at $80 per play kit, delivered every 2 months and for ages 0-4. Little Passports From early learning to culture and geography and STEM, there’s so much fun to be had with Little Passports subscription boxes. It’s a passport to world knowledge and curiosity! Starting at $23.95 per month and recommended for ages 3-8+. Receive 40% off sitewide (must use this link to receive this exclusive offer). Brick Loot Are your twinnies LEGO-obsessed? Brick Loot is filled with the coolest and newest LEGO and brick-related items. So perfect for that kid that goes through LEGO kits like they’re going out of style! Starting at $39.16/month and recommended for ages 6-99+. Ipsy The monthly Ipsy subscription is great for beauty lovers. I had this subscription as a teen myself and loved the surprise products every month and was blown away by how much you get (5 products worth up to $70) for the price! Starting at $14/month and recommended for teen aged kids. Highlights Puzzle Buzz Highlights Puzzle Buzz subscription is perfect for children diving into puzzles, brain teasers, and engaging stories. It’s a great way to keep young minds sharp while fostering a love for reading and problem-solving. Starting at $130.80 for 12 months and for ages 4 to 7. Creation Crate Your future engineers, chemists, and tech prodigies will geek out over Creation Crate’s STEM kits. Watch your child go from beginner to tech wizard as they complete challenges and unlock cutting-edge STEM skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow. Perfect for tweens, teens, and even adults! Starting at $29.99/project and recommended for ages 10+. Think Outside Fuel the passion for the outdoors with Think Outside.… Continue Reading Best Monthly Subscription Boxes for Kids

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Adorable Boy-Girl Twin Outfits for Your Little Duo

Amanda Hadley — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Should twins dress alike or not? That’s the question. My boys are fraternal and couldn’t be more different. They have their own unique tastes. Matching outfits? Nah, not for me. But I do like to coordinate their clothes with complementary colors or fun themes like animals or cars. And when it comes to boy-girl twin outfits, I wonder if this approach would work too. Let’s find out! Now let’s dive into the timeless dilemma: “Where on earth can you find the perfect coordinating outfits for your adorable boy-girl twins?” Brace yourself, as we unveil a treasure trove of our top picks – a delightful blend of familiar haunts and hidden gems – all waiting to transform your little ones into the epitome of style and charm! Twiniversity-approved boy-girl twin outfits Same Same Kids SameSame Kids is a fun twist on buying second-hand clothes. It was founded by a twin mom who wanted to spread the joy of matching twins and triplets in an affordable, convenient way. You can buy or sell (or both) pre-loved matching and coordinating outfits through Same Same Kids. You will find the most adorable “boutique” onesies at half price, Halloween costumes, brand-name shoes, and even clothes with tags still on them! Definitely worth checking out and scoring an adorable boy-girl twin outfit or two! Price: $ The Children’s Place/Gymboree/Sugar & Jade/PJ Place Their online setup is amazing! It’s a one-stop shop for 4-different stores! This website also offers a family matching tab, where the matchy-matchy work is done for you (except for sizes, of course!). What’s also nice about this store is that they have packs of clothes. You can get the same style of shirts in 4 different colors, or pants that are two different colors, etc. A more efficient way to shop and a great way to match your twins without making them identical. Since the other stores are attached to this site, you can add stuff from The Children’s Place to your cart and then hop over to Gymboree all in one sitting. Price: $ H&M The easiest way to coordinate boy-girl twin outfits is by color or theme. I LOVE stripes for this (they are usually easy to find and come in LOTS of colors). Check out these simple H&M t-shirts. Two striped shirts with the same colors but in alternating patterns. Plus, these come in a multi-pack, so you also end up with two other shirts that can easily be used in a different matchy-matchy outfit or for the days you don’t feel like going all out matchy! Price: $ Old Navy Old Navy is the place to find matchy-matchy pajamas for every holiday! Who says matching is only for the daytime (and Christmas)? With Halloween rolling around, check out their Halloween-themed pajamas! While you’re there, you might as well see what else you can find! Look for similar patterns (Old Navy is good with using a specific pattern and tying it into multiple things for the whole family). I searched “matching” on their website and found these cute boy-girl twin outfits! Completely affordable and adorable! Price: $ Olive + Scout I’m in LOVE! Olive + Scout has made my boy-girl twin outfit-matching dreams come true! Look at this cute jogger set with Baller and Athlete across the chest! Tell me you aren’t picturing your twinnies in these right now! Olive + Scout is obviously a boutique-type shop, so the price is a bit higher than the big department stores, but completely worth the spend on a couple of key wardrobe items (like these fall jackets…I have a family photo shoot coming up. Maybe flannel can be the theme?). Price: $$ Little Bipsy I was recently introduced to this shop and have 6 items in my cart right now. The clothes are amazing, and the story behind this company is equally amazing. Little Bipsy’s goal was to create a foundation offering support and resources throughout the journey of pregnancy, providing love and a safe place for babies and little ones. And recently, they were able to move forward with creating The Little Bipsy Foundation. Their first project is providing newborn gift boxes to families at their local NICU + birthing center in Everett, Washington. My twins are NICU Grads, and any organization that supports the NICU is getting my support. Price: $$ The Simple Folk A sustainable brand that uses non-toxic dyes and fabrics. A minimalist look is timeless and classic, and their color scheme is perfect for this fall season. This is the perfect place to get an exact boy-girl twin outfit but in a different color. Same romper (and this one is adorable), but one is green and one is pink. Cute and comfy tie-dye shirt and pants, same design, same fit, same everything, except colors. Price: $$ Zara We all knew Zara made trendy adult clothes, but kid’s clothes, too? YUP, and they are just as trendy as the adult section! Your toddlers will look chic and sharp with some of these designs. They even have faux leather leggings for little girls! I can not pull off the full denim outfits that are making a comeback, but I know my cute little twinnies can! And, if you haven’t jumped on the puffy vest wagon, let me help you on! A must-have item for fall: tiny puffy vests for tiny little humans! Price: $$ Kyte Baby My journey to find a solution for keeping blankets on my toddlers led me to Kyte Baby. With the cooler weather coming, their footed sleepers would be perfect for them! Especially since they don’t keep their blankets on. And when I read their About Us page, it really resonated with me. One of my twins has eczema and gets flare-ups with the change in weather. For that reason, Kyte Baby founder uses bamboo as their fabric. Price: $$ Pepa London Pepa London is for you if you want that special, polished look for your boy-girl twin outfits. Their style has a cohesive… Continue Reading Adorable Boy-Girl Twin Outfits for Your Little Duo

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The Twins’ Stroller Wagon, You Have to Check Out

Amanda Hadley — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Have you heard about the ALL NEW Larktale Sprout Single-to-Double Stroller Wagon? If this is brand-new information, don’t panic. We are about to spill all the tea on this new Larktale Stroller Wagon. Keep reading to find out if this is the perfect addition to your summer fun! Plus, enter for your chance to win a Larktale Sprout Single-to-Double Wagon of your very own! Just fill out the form after you read the blog below. The giveaway ends 07/02/2023 and will be announced within 3 days (excluding holidays and weekends). The Larktale Sprout Stroller Wagon We’re so excited to introduce the Larktale Sprout Stroller Wagon. The Sprout is the latest design from the Stroller Wagon geniuses at Larktale. So why is this stroller wagon so special? The Sprout converts from a single-seater wagon into a double-seater wagon in seconds. No tools needed! The Larktale Sprout is the first of its kind. A size-adjustable wagon designed for city dwellers or those of us who have limited space in our homes. The Sprout can be converted in 5 seconds or less. I can’t even say my twins’ first names in 5 seconds! It’s like they had twin moms in mind when designing this one-of-a-kind stroller wagon. Just like all the Larktale stroller wagons that have come before, the Sprout is made from high-quality materials and offers all the safety features to keep your twins safe. Although space-saving, the Sprout does not compromise the sturdy yet luxurious style we’ve all come to expect from Larktale. So, let’s break down this one-of-a-kind stroller wagon, shall we? Seating Whether you are in single mode or double mode, each seat in the Sprout can hold up to 50 pounds. WOW! This stroller wagon could possibly get you through the first 5 years with twins! The adjustable 5-point harness is a snap. No, really, it’s a simple snap/latch 5-point harness that is super easy to use. This is a MUST for twins. The quicker you get them in and latched, the less chance of having a runner! The shoulder straps are padded, helping ensure your twinnies are at maximum comfort. The second seat (also complete with an adjustable padded 5-point harness) attaches or detaches in seconds, depending on the configuration you are using at the time. If using the single stroller wagon setting, the second seat folds flat to fit in the large shopping basket. Canopies One of the features I always pay attention to when considering strollers is the canopy. They are so important for your child’s comfort and sun safety. Luckily, Larktale does not skimp on their canopies. The Sprout stroller wagon comes with a large multi-position sun canopy with a pop-out visor. Plus, a zippered canopy extension with a mesh airflow panel and a peek-a-boo window. This canopy comfortably shades both seats when in double wagon mode. Push with Ease Thanks to the large non-flat rubber wheels and an all-wheel suspension system, the Larktale Sprout stroller wagon provides a smooth and comfortable ride. Taking the kids off-road, the lockable swivel front wheels provide extra stability on uneven terrain. The Sprout also features an adjustable handlebar with leatherette for a comfortable push at any height. Plus, make sure you grab your coffee before heading out because the handlebar stroller console comes with drink holders (and compartments for other stuff, too) and is included with the Larktale Sprout stroller wagon. Storage The one thing you can always count on in a stroller wagon is storage space. Cause, you know, it’s a wagon! The Larktale Sprout stroller wagon can hold up to 120 lbs total (including children and cargo). That’s a lot of space for stuff! Inside the seating area, the Sprout has four mesh interior pockets with plenty of space for your twinnie’s drinks, books, toys, and even snacks. All within their own reach! So maybe you’re thinking, if I fill the cargo basket with kids, where do I put the rest of my stuff? No worries, the Larktale Sprout has a basket on the back of the wagon. You can put your diaper bag, day stuff, keys, purse, cell phone, and so much more in. In fact, this is one of our favorite features. If your plan is to utilize all the cargo space for stuff and one child, Larktale thought of that too. A mesh cargo divider is included to section off your stuff from your child. Folds Flat The Sprout stroller wagon features a quick and easy fold into a compact and easy-to-lift size. The folding lock keeps the frame folded for transportation or storage. You will need to flatten the canopy before folding, and you will need two hands to fold this stroller. Not ideal, but still completely doable. What’s in the Box? The Larktale Sprout comes with everything you would want already in the box! It comes complete with: Although not necessary, if you do feel like jacking your ride, check out the available accessories for The Sprout (at an additional cost). Accessories There are some great accessories for the Larktale Sprout Stroller Wagon, including a 2-year warranty extension. That’s great for peace of mind if anything does happen to go wrong! Some of our other favorite accessories are: Car Seat Adapter – ( Maxi Cosi / Nuna / Clek)– Make your Sprout stroller wagon newborn-ready with this car seat adapter. This adapter folds with the stroller wagon, so there is no need to remove it. However, if you do need to remove it, it is pressure mounted, so it goes on and off quickly. Ride along stroller board – This one is a fave! It allows for a toddler to ride along on the stroller wagon. The ride-along stroller board has a 2-in-1 design that provides a saddle seat for your toddler to rest on, or you can remove this and add a platform for the bigger kid to stand on. Stroller Fan & Mister – The Larktale Stroller Fan helps keep you or your baby cool and comfortable… Continue Reading The Twins’ Stroller Wagon, You Have to Check Out

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Age Appropriate Chores for Kids 2 to 14 Years Old

Natalie Diaz — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Wondering about age appropriate chores for your kids? If you have twins, or multiples, you may be wondering how to get your kids to help around the house. Don’t fret, we’ve got some great ideas for chores for kids. Read below for info. Hands in the air if you are sick of picking up Legos? (I see your hand up, and mine is up too!) Are you sick of picking up used wet towels or emptying the dishwasher? Do you ever feel like you are the ONLY one in your home that does any housework? It’s time to for some help. Is it just me, or is this starting to sound like an infomercial? Except we’re not selling you a handy new cleaning tool for the low price of $19.95 (plus shipping and handling of course). We’re going to help you utilize what you already have: TWINS. Although these particular “tools” cost way more (about $310,605.00 over a span of eighteen years) and are probably better at making a mess than cleaning one up. You must keep in mind: that’s four extra hands to help tidy up! When asked, “what is a great chore to have my multiples do?” we asked our Twiniversity community what chores their kids were doing. Here’s what you guys told us: Age Appropriate Chores for Kids 2 to 3 Years Old “Mine will be three in April. They feed the fish, put their toys back in the play room and water the plants. They also “help” with putting away dishes and folding the laundry.” -Rustell L. “My 3 1/2 year old girls like feeding our cats and dog. They also love to help put away the groceries and put things in the recycling bins.”– Amy M. Chores for Kids 4 and 5 Years Old “My neighbor has twins too and she throws a load of socks on the floor and gives them a quarter for every pair they make :)” -Krystal S “I have them use magic eraser to wipe all their fingerprints and crayon “accidents” off the walls, they love doing this, I started having them do it, with the hopes they would hate it and stop touching the walls with dirty hands but it didn’t work.” -Tara L. “My 4 year olds love to dust & clean windows.” -Marlene V. “My girls just turned 4 and they feed the dogs, set and clear the table, pick up their toys, unload the silverware from the dishwasher and put it away, and help bring in groceries in from the car.” -Jessica P. Chores for Kids Between 6 and 7 “Clean the bathrooms. Just use plain dish soap and a wet rag to “wash” and a dry towel to dry up the bubbles and water. They LOVE to make bubbles. It will be the cleanest you’ve ever seen your bathroom!”– Bev H. “They have to unload backpacks, take dishes from table and feed the dog.” – Lori Age Appropriate Chores for Multiples Ages 8-11 12- And 13-Year-Old Age Appropriate Chores Age Appropriate Chores for Multiples, Ages 14 and Up Hopefully we have given you some tips on how to NOT be the only one picking up around your beautiful home and lighten your load. Remember to keep your chore choices age appropiate, or in the long run, you could just be making it harder on yourself. Did we forget anything? What chores are your kids currently doing? Please comment below, if we overlooked a chore that should be included in this list!

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Stay in Bed: Keeping Your Toddlers in Bed at Bedtime

Amanda Hadley — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Are you struggling with keeping your toddlers in bed during bedtime? If your kids just won’t stay in their own beds at night, don’t worry, you aren’t alone. In fact, we see this issue a lot in our Twin Community. Read on below for some helpful tips and tricks from moms who have dealt with the same thing. A MoM recently asked “Just transitioned my 3 year old twins into big kid beds. How do I keep them in their beds and bedroom after our bedtime routine?” Here is what our Twiniversity Community had to say: More tips on how to keep your toddlers in their beds at night These are all great suggestions and advice, but the reality is, there is no right answer. There is no one way or one trick that works for every child. Let’s talk a little more about some of the methods mentioned above. Methods for Keeping Toddlers in Bed Walking them back to bed, again and again (and again) This is a simple, yet often frustrating method. Basically, whenever one or both of your toddlers come out of their room, you walk them back to bed. You repeat this as many times as it takes. You don’t want to get angry or show any emotion, in fact say as few words as possible. Take their hand or pick them up, say “It’s time for bed,” and walk them back to bed. Ideally, after several nights of this, your twins get the point and stay in bed. Wake-up clocks to help kids sleep better A wake-up clock is a special clock for younger kids who are unable to read or tell time. It displays colors that indicate when it is time to sleep and when it is time to get up. Depending on the model, you may also get a sound machine included. I’m a HUGE fan of a white noise machine for helping my twins get to sleep and stay asleep. The Hatch Rest+ The Hatch Rest+ is the ULTIMATE Sleep machine. It includes 11 soothing sounds, a night light with time-to-rise, an audio monitor, clock and can be completely controlled with your smartphone and/or Alexa. If you already have a sound machine and really just want a simple light training clock, then the OK to Wake! Alarm Clock & Night-Light is for you. OK to Wake! Alarm Clock & Night-Light The OK to Wake clock features a soothing yellow night-light to comfort your children as they fall asleep. Then, in the morning, it glows green when it’s OK for your children to get out of bed! It does have a nap timer, alarm clock with snooze, and it also has fun animations to give it a bit of personality. By letting your little ones know via lights or sounds when it is an appropriate time to be awake, a wake-up clock can help establish healthy sleep schedules. Door Locks To Keep Toddlers in Bed When transitioning your toddlers from crib to bed, it allows them increased access to their environment, and an over-active curiosity to accompany it. So, sometimes you have to keep the door closed by measures similar (or 100% identical) to locking the door. Child-Proof Door Knob A child-proof door knob is simply a cover that goes over the Knob and spins freely so tiny hands can’t twist the door knob open but are easy for parents to grip when opening the door. It’s a simple, yet effective safety device. Door Handle reversal Door handle reversal is a really simple method to keep your kids in their rooms and safe. To utilize the door handle reversal method, you will simply swap the outer handle with the inside handle (with the door lock). This puts your door lock on the outside of the bedroom instead of the inside. Door Monkey The Door Monkey’s unique design automatically locks interior doors in a slightly cracked position.This helps protect little fingers from pain-ful door pinch injuries and allows fresh air to circulate through the secured room. The Door Monkey simply clamps to the edge of the door, without tools, tape, or hardware. Mount it high and out of sight for taller users, or down low for shorter users. The Door Monkey is operable from either side of the door, preventing accidental lock-ins. The door locking method works (because it literally keeps your children inside their room). Not everyone will agree with this method, and that is okay. Always do what is best for you and your family. But do remember that this method is not done to be mean or as a punishment, it is done to keep control over the situation and provide safety for your newly mobile toddlers. Lay with Them Until They Fall Asleep I used this method with my singleton, and I will be completely honest, I HATED EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF IT. I would lay on her floor, counting the seconds until she fell asleep so I could tackle my growing to-do list. And then becoming agitated when she wouldn’t stop talking and just go the EFF to sleep. However, my husband loved it, and so do a lot of other parents. This is a great method with little to zero parenting guilt involved. It is also a fool proof method to keep your toddlers in their bed (you are literally there to stop them), however, it is also completely dependent on parent participation. Once you have chosen your method, it is very important to stick with it and maintain consistency. Try not to bounce between methods, it is likely to confuse your toddlers and cause you to become the underdog in this parent-teaching experience. And remember, sleep is a need, not a want. You need to do what works for you and your family, so that everyone gets a good rest.

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Snow Boots: What to Look For and Brands We Love

Twiniversity — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Are you in the market for new snow boots for your kiddos this winter? Don’t miss our breakdown of what to look for in boots and which brands we love! ‘Tis the season for wet, cold, snowy weather (unless you live in the warmer southern states). I am at a point in my life where I can admit it: I do not like snow! I do not want to walk in it, shovel it, or drive in it. But my kids LOVE it. They will spend hours outside having snowball fights, building snow volcanos, and really just stomping around. With that said, finding warm and durable winter gear is a must. Of course, finding comfortable, waterproof, warm, and durable snow boots can be challenging. My kids will wear these snow boots for business and pleasure. When winter comes, our life doesn’t stop. The kids still walk to and from school, and they still have outdoor recess, so their snow boots are important. So what boots do you buy? That is an excellent question, so I had to turn to the experts…You! I turned to our community of twin parents for advice on which brand of snow boots we should consider this winter season. What to look for when choosing winter boots for kids? Trying to find a reliable pair of snow boots might seem daunting. Here are a few basics to keep in mind when you go shopping. Waterproofing Do not be fooled by the words “Water-resistant”. If you have snow-loving, active kids, you need WATERPROOF boots. Ensure the whole boot is waterproof. Believe it or not, some boots are only waterproof at the foot. Making sure the legs are, too will ensure your children are warm enough. Traction Winter weather often brings slippery conditions. Check the soles. Make sure they have grips on them. Be sure to choose a boot with good traction, but without being too heavy and clunky. Easy To Put On Look for easy-on snow boots. No one wants to be fighting with cheaply made zippers or laces every time they need to leave the house. Look for easy zippers that are well-made and have a velcro closure. Fit for Your Boots This one is important. It can be hard to justify not buying a size up so you can try and use them for a couple of winters. The problem is that if they don’t fit well, snow will likely sneak into the legs, defeating the purpose of your toddler snow boots. Lightweight It’s important for little feet to stay warm, but they also need to be able to move around and have fun! Choosing a boot that is lighter and also more flexible without losing the insulation and waterproof properties will ensure that kiddos can have fun in colder temperatures. Breathablility You want to keep moisture away from your kids’ feet, but you also want to let moisture escape. All the stomping and climbing through the snow can make anyone’s feet sweaty. You want a material that is breathable and wicks away moisture. Favorite Snow Boot Brands So, now that we know what we need to look for, let’s talk about brands. Not all snow boots are created equal, and thanks to you, we have a great list of top brands. BOGS Snow Shell Boots Bogs were the #1 recommended brand from our Twiniversity community. These boots have it all. They are 100% waterproof from top to bottom, and feature integrated snow cuffs and gaiters, with ultra-cozy fleece lining making them both lightweight and durable. Bogs are known for their BOGS Max-Wick and DuraFresh natural biotechnology to fight odor and evaporate sweat to keep feet dry. Not to mention, they come in a wide range of designs and sizes and are a pull-on style with bungee top closures. To purchase, click here. The North Face Alpenglow V Waterproof Boots The Alpenglow V Waterproof Boots feature a single-pull quick-closure lace for a secure fit and to keep out snow, are easy to put on and take off, and have a tough protective rubber shell. Completely waterproof from a combination of waterproof leather overlays and ballistic nylon construction with superior traction. A true leader in the hiking community, North Face prides itself on the lightweight and durability of all its footwear. And of course, they are available in a handful of different colors and sizes. To purchase, click here. Merrell Kids Snow Crush 2.0 Waterproof Boot Merrell is one of my favorite brands. My kids love their sandals, but honestly, I have forgotten that they make boots too. The Merrell Snow Crush 2.0 are sneaker-style boots, making them lightweight and super easy to put on and take off. Thanks to the insulation at the toe and footbed, toggle closure, and waterproof upper, feet stay dry all day long. Additionally, these feature an anti-stink lining to reduce odors, and extra grip for superior traction. To purchase, click here. Kamik Kids Snobuster2 Waterproof Winter Boots The Kamik Kids Snobuster2 winter boots are 100% waterproof all-weather boots, with an adjustable snow collar and easy-grab lace lock to keep snow out and feet warm. These boots feature a moisture-wicking thermal guard removable liner and SNOBUSTER sole with multi-directional treads for stability. What’s more, the pull-on style with no laces make these boots super easy to put on and take off. In fact, these boots double as rain boots so you’ll get more use out of them. To purchase, click here. Sorel Children’s Yoot Pac™ Nylon Boots Who doesn’t love a rubber duck boot design, especially on little kid boots? Cold weather doesn’t stand a chance with these Sorel Yoot Pac boots. With a waterproof nylon upper with cozy insulation, an inner boot liner with a sherpa collar (removable and washable) keeps feet warm and cozy all day. Equally important is that they are lightweight, and easy to put on and take off with toggle laces. To purchase, click here. Columbia Powderbug™ Plus II Snow Boot The Powderbug Plus II Snow Boot is a winter warrior! These winter boots feature a felt liner, waterproof… Continue Reading Snow Boots: What to Look For and Brands We Love

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