Our routine is TOTALLY off and the kids are acting out.

[DoomaYula]

I'm not a "schedule" person, but we do have a fairly normal routine -- my almost-5yo twins have preschool M-Th, my 2yo stays home with me, and my dh works M-F. However, since our newest baby was born (Oct 14), everything has been different and my 3 older kids are acting out like mad.

Dh has been home more/home less. (First he took 2w off, then he worked longer hours and the border line was long - he works in Mexico. He has also been working from home.) I know the kids love having him around more, but I think they're confused as to what/when he does.

Of course having a baby was a huge change, and my 2yo dd has basically stopped talking and started using baby babble. Prior to the baby's birth, she talked all day long, just gave a running commentary of her day. ("And now I'm going potty, and now I'm flushing, and now I'm pulling up my pants...")

My almost-5yo twin boys have been throwing some really serious tantrums where they just start screaming and don't stop. I feel really scared and helpless -- they just freak out and nothing calms them.

Also, right now my dh is in NC for a job interview, and if he is offered the job, we're going to move there. Which obviously will be a huuuuuuuuuge change.

Any suggestions? Thanks for reading this epic.

[UUMom]

As best you can, slow down, and don't try to get a lot done. Connecting and being available has always helped my kids. If you know anyone you enjoy who might lend a hand, call and have them come over and help fold cothes, engage which ever children would enjoy some company, or hold the baby while you play a game with the olders until the babe is ready to nurse again.

Try to keep your sense of humor as best you can. Sit on the floor a lot.

[DoomaYula]

Thanks for those really easy concrete suggestions! Off to go sit on the floor with kids!