Pregnant with a toddler

[Awaken]

I started a new thread because this has been my primary worry in deciding to get pregnant- how to deal with a high need toddler while feeling exhausted myself and working part time. (Well actually my main worry is how I will do all that with a newborn and being up all night, but I'll try to take first things first).

Thanks for the advice/ thoughts so far.

At least my son still takes a nap (for now!!) so I can sleep when he does. But he has a lot of issues and I always have a lot of phone calls to make to doctors, etc so I need to do that when he's asleep. And I need to clean sometimes or that stresses me out too!!

My dh does tons- both with childcare and around the house. But this (of course) happens to be his busy time at work and we are also having renovations done to our house so he is always either working from home or out at Home Depot so I've been on my own more than usual lately. But, even though I'm so tired, I'm trying to keep a good frame of mind and I think I'll get through it with the help of naps, yoga, and starting my hypnobirthing practice early!

[doulanichole]

Although I don't have any great words of wisdom....you can do this! It is difficult at times, especailly with a high needs child, but it will be fine. Sounds as if you have really thought things through and are trying to plan for the future with your child and the baby and that will help. Just be sure to rest when you can because you will need the energy.

Mine will be 4, 3 and 16 months when the baby is born and I know it will take some juggling as well. But you've got your friends at MDC and we'll help get you through!

[Meli65]

Very curious to get some tips. Mine isn't exactly a toddler -- more like a preschooler, I guess. Very high-energy.

One idea a friend gave me is baths -- she said she let her daughter play in the bath for hours, while she (the mom) laid down on the floor in the bathroom. Sounds good to me!

[punkprincessmama]

Originally Posted by Meli65

One idea a friend gave me is baths -- she said she let her daughter play in the bath for hours, while she (the mom) laid down on the floor in the bathroom. Sounds good to me!

Oh - La - La :LOL that sounds delicious! I will definetley keep that in mind.

I am right there with you mamas, my dd is 22 months and quite spirited. She hasn't napped for three days despite my best efforts *yawn* and I'm terrified that she's given up the nap.

Definetley looking for some ideas about taking care of myself and my unborn baby while keeping up with dd. I won't even let myself think too much about how to handle a newborn and spirited toddler yet.

[Awaken]

Originally Posted by Meli65

One idea a friend gave me is baths -- she said she let her daughter play in the bath for hours, while she (the mom) laid down on the floor in the bathroom. Sounds good to me!

LOL, good idea! I will have to file that away. As it is, I put him in the tub if I am out of entertainment ideas, then I can sit there and read.