Two Under Two Survival Tips For Moms

Alessandra | Posted on March 13, 2025 |

If you’re a two under two mom, you’re in good company here! In this blog, I share my best tips to help you survive this special time in your life.

Having two kids under two years old—also known as “two under two”—makes you part of a unique parenting group! Your life right now is probably pretty challenging and feeling like a whirlwind of diapers, sleepless nights, and double the chaos. And I completely understand, because I’ve been there and I’ve been through it. While it’s an incredibly rewarding experience, it also comes with its fair share of exhaustion and overwhelm.

But don’t worry, in this blog I’m sharing lots of tips to help you through this tough stage! With the right mindset, strategies, and a bit of patience, you can not only survive but thrive in this season of motherhood. In this post, we’ll break down what having two under two really means, what to expect, and most importantly, how to navigate this phase with more ease and confidence.

*This blog contains affiliate links, you can learn more at my terms. Thank you for supporting my blog!

What Does “Two Under Two” Mean?

First off let’s discuss this if you’re unsure. “Two under two” refers to having two children under the age of two at the same time. This means you gave birth to a second baby before your first born’s second birthday. That means you’re raising two very young children who both need significant hands-on care, whether it’s feeding, diapering, or managing sleep schedules. Hey! I’m a mom of 3 now, but my first two babies are 22 months apart (#2under2) and I know how wild and unpredictable this time can be. Keep reading to learn some insight from a mama who has found the light at the end of the two under two tunnel!

What’s It Like to Have Two Under Two?

Now you know what two under two really means, let’s talk about what it’s like. To put it simply: you’re cray cray! Just kidding, but it is like riding a rollercoaster. Some days will feel like a beautiful, love-filled adventure, and you’ll think you’ve gotten your groove and have it all figured out. Then other days might leave you questioning your sanity and you’ll realize you do not, in fact, have anything figured out. 🙂

Here are a few common experiences moms of two under two share:

1. Exhaustion levels are at an all-time high

You’re juggling a newborn’s round-the-clock needs while still caring for a toddler who has endless energy. You will probably not sleep for the first three months of your second baby’s life. And in case you didn’t know, there’s a 2 year old sleep regression, so prepare for that one now. Taking Cara Babies has a great article about that I’ll link here.

2. Your hands (and heart) are always full

The silver lining is there’s never a dull moment when you are caring for two kids under two. And you’ll quickly become a pro at multitasking!

3. Mom guilt is real

Mom guilt will rear its ugly head during this time in your life. This is because you’ll feel like you’re not giving enough attention to one child when the other needs you. These feelings are very common, but don’t let them eat you alive.

4. Your daily routine revolves around naps, feedings, and diaper changes

Not just your daily routine, your daily life revolves around these things. Some days you will feel like you only breastfeed, ate, changed a diaper, sat again to breastfeed. Finding a good rhythm during this time can be challenging but it’s crucial! Follow my blog though, because I share lots of routine tips.

5. There are sweet, magical moments

While this time is really demanding and down right difficult, there are many sweet moments in between all the chaos. Watching your little ones bond, play, and grow together makes all the hard work worth it, I promise!

Survival Tips for Moms with Two Under Two

Now from me, a stay at home mom who has been through the trenches of having two under two, to you who now is in the trenches of having two under two, here are my best tips! These tips are meant to help you work through survival mode so you can truly thrive in this stage of motherhood. Keep reading for my Motherhood Burnout Guide at the end of this blog post if you need additional support.

1. Prioritize Routines Over Schedules

This is a chaotic time and you now have 2 babies with different needs. Instead of stressing over a rigid schedule, focus on simple and predictable routines/rhythms. Try to align naps and meal times when possible to create smoother transitions throughout the day. But don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t work out the way you planned.

2. Get Comfortable with Babywearing

I wasn’t a huge fan of babywearing, but a good baby carrier is a lifesaver! Wearing your newborn allows you to be hands-free so you can tend to your toddler while still keeping your baby close. Plus there’s a hundred other benefits to babywearing. Find a baby carrier that is super comfortable and easy to wear, like the Baby K’Tan below. This was my favorite babywearing wrap and I highly suggest it!

3. Prep as Much as You Can in Advance

Use nap times and the end of the day when your husband/spouse is home to prep in advance. Have snacks, bottles, and diapers ready for the day. Putting some snacks in a lower space so your toddler can help themselves is also helpful! Set up diaper-changing stations in different areas of the house, that way you don’t have to run around for diaper changes. Prep meals ahead of time or rely on easy recipes. Prepping can make all the difference!

4. Don’t Feel Guilty About Screen Time

As a mom who tries my best to limit screen time, having two under two will have you renegotiating your own rules. Don’t be hard on yourself. There will be moments when you need to tend to your newborn, and a little screen time for your toddler is okay! If it makes you feel better, use educational shows like Miss Rachel or engaging screen activities like Cosmic Kids Yoga to keep them occupied. But ultimately, remember that some extra tv time won’t hurt.

5. Master the Art of Distraction

A little distraction never hurt anyone, right?! When both your kids need you at the same time, distract one with a toy, snack, or activity while you care for the other. A busy toddler is a happy toddler! Also, it’s ok if your baby cries a little while you tend to your toddler. As stressful as that can be, everyone will be ok in the end.

6. Embrace Baby Naps on the Go

I was always the type to live for nap time because it’s a guaranteed break for you. But with two kids, getting everyone to sleep at home every time might not always be realistic. And sometimes as moms, we need to just go with the flow and let go a little. Try letting your newborn nap in a stroller or carrier while you’re out and about with your toddler, sometimes.

7. Say Yes to Help

Motherhood is not something that is meant to be done alone! If someone offers to babysit, cook a meal, or fold laundry—accept it! Whether it’s family, friends, or a postpartum doula, extra hands make a huge difference. You will feel relieved to have the help and your toddler will probably love the extra company!

8. Lower Your Expectations

Honestly, take all the expectations you have and lower them to like zero. Your house might not be spotless, and that’s okay. The laundry and dishes may be piling up, and you will get to them but your main job right now is your children, not perfection. Give yourself grace and allow yourself to slow down and focus on what truly matters.

9. Get Your Toddler Involved

Toddlers love to help! Give your toddler simple tasks like grabbing a diaper, singing to the baby, or “helping” with tummy time. This fosters connection between you and your toddler AND your toddler and the new baby. Plus it makes them feel important! Plus, bringing home a new baby is a total life altering experience for your toddler, so this can help alleviate those big feelings and make the transition feel a little easier for big brother or sister.

10. Take Advantage of Nap Overlaps

You might get lucky and the stars may align for you and both kids will nap at the same time. When this happens, even if it’s just for 20 minutes, use it wisely! Rest, eat a real meal, or take a quick shower. Do whatever you need most in that moment. Notice how I didn’t say wash the dishes or vacuum? I mean if you want to do those things because it makes you feel better, by all means do it, but taking care of yourself during this time should be top priority!

11. Invest in Safe Play Areas

You’ll want safe areas your toddler can play and you don’t have to hover constantly. Create a secure play space where your toddler can play independently while you care for the baby. Playpens, baby gates, and contained play areas will be your best friend right now and that’s ok!

12. Teach Your Toddler to Play Independently

Speaking of creating a space for your toddler to play independently…make sure you are teaching your toddler to play independently. It’s such a crucial skill to have and it does take some work. But know that you do not need to constantly entertain your toddler, and you shouldn’t be doing that either. Playing is SO good for them and this is a great time to help them work through these skills. I always refer moms to Brambila_Bits because she shares amazing tips for helping moms with independent play, so make sure to check her out!

13. Keep a Stash of Emergency Items in the Car

You never know when something might happen and you need to jump in the car quick or let’s face it, moms can be forgetful. I recommend always having a backup diaper bag in the car with diapers, wipes, snacks, an extra outfit, and a few small toys in it. You’ll thank yourself later!

14. Find Ways to Recharge

Having two under two is eventful and stressful and you are always “on.” So make sure you’re finding time for you throughout the day. Even if it’s just five minutes of deep breathing or sitting and drinking your coffee while it’s hot, prioritize small moments of self-care. I wish I did this more often when my first two were younger. It’s cliche, but you can’t pour from an empty cup, and you’ll be a much more patient and happy mom if you’re taking a few minutes each day to care for you.

15. Remember This is Temporary

I know the days right now feel long and never-ending, but this season won’t last forever. One day, you’ll look back and be amazed at how you managed it all. And you’ll realize how fast it all went by once it’s all over. Motherhood is full of fleeting moments, and if you follow these tips, I think you’ll come out the other side knowing you gave it your all and you did it with grace!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, being part of the “2 Under 2” club is a special place to be! Surviving (and thriving) with two under two is no small feat, but you’re stronger and more capable than you think. Here’s your gentle reminder to give yourself grace, ask for help when you need it, and find joy in the little moments. The bond your children will develop and the memories you’ll make during this time are truly priceless. And before you know it, this hard stage will be over because like all things in motherhood, it’s fleeting. You’ve got this, mama!

Use the image below to save these two under two survival tips to your favorite Pinterest board!

Related Blogs:

Sharing is caring! If you found this blog helpful, please share it with your mama friends who also have two under two. Thank you for supporting my blog! You can also support me by following me on Instagram @justabasicmama for more stay at home mom life!

Facebook Pin Tweet