2020 has been, no doubt, a Christmas platter of challenges. A platter that’s been left out in the Aussie December heat for too long, perhaps. Despite all that has come before, and what still lies ahead, I hope that this holiday season gives all of our members the opportunity to relax just a little and reconnect with their loved ones, even from afar.
But every year, holiday season brings some unique challenges for those families with young multiples. For those that are lucky enough to spend time with extended family, there can be a massive juggling act involved (and that’s not just packing the car!).
Last Christmas, I had a 2 year old son, and my twin girls were 4 months old. Here’s some tips and tricks that might just help you conquer this holiday season with (most!) of your sanity intact. And for those with older multiples, I know these won’t all be relevant, but I hope they help you, even a little, with the holiday prep!
Be kind to yourself!
Whatever your approach is this year, whoever you see or don’t see, however much time you spend or don’t spend, remember to be kind to yourself. In the grand scheme of things, you might choose to maintain your routine over promising to attend multiple (pun intended!) events. And that is perfectly ok. After all, this is just one year of what will be many beautiful holiday seasons to come! If you need the space to spend with your little family, then be kind to yourself, and say no when you need to.
Traditions are great, but do what you can
There are so many beautiful traditions that families follow this time of year, and they have a very special place as children get older. But if your children are only little, try adapting them. Last year we left the girls with their Aunty and snuck out with our son to look at Christmas lights without them – it was great! He got one-on-one time with us, and we got to enjoy his little face without distractions. Stick with one or two really important things, grab a couple of cute photos if you can, and consider your job done! Remember, next year that tradition will still be there.
To host or not to host?
This is a tricky one. If you have the space, and you know your guests will respect it, hosting is great chance to keep young kids in their routine. Consider asking everyone to pitch in with the food, whack a few strings of tinsel on the table and bam! Then, you can make the most of an afternoon nap while everyone else enjoys cuddles with the bubbas. It might not be what you usually do, but perhaps this is the year to make a change, even if it’s only temporary. And if you’re travelling, consider taking a white noise machine (or download an app onto your phone) along with a monitor – it means you might be able to get some decent naps in for the kids, even away from the house & normal routine.
Find the magic in the little things
I used to get really upset that I didn’t have the time or energy to take loads of cute photos, or to dress the kids in lots of cute Christmas outfits. I used to compare the photos some of my other friends had and wonder “why can’t I do that?!”. But then, I remembered what made us special. We have multiples. Embrace the crazy. Grab a couple of pictures when you can and ask your friends and family to grab photos for you during the holidays, without you having to specifically ask. Make it a group effort, because raising multiples and capturing the special moments takes more than one (pun definitely intended)!
And finally…
Pick one moment over the holiday season to breathe, to-refocus and to remember that life with multiples is a life multipled with love.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season. Don’t forget to share your photos with us on the members page or via our Facebook or Instagram @bmbanorthside
Amy,
BMBAN Member & Secretary
Brisbane Multiple Birth Association Northside Inc. 
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