FROM breakfast to the dreaded bedtime routine, any parent will know just how exhausting each day can be when you have a lively little one that’s constantly on the go.
So for any mums who are pregnant again and will be juggling two under two, chances are you may be feeling just as overwhelmed as you are excited.
Tiffany Norris shared her expert advice on how to deal with two under two. Pictured, stock imageCredit: Getty
But if you haven’t had a spare second amongst all of the chaos to consider what parenting products you might need for your impending arrival, then you’re in luck!
Speaking exclusively to Fabulous, parenting expert and founder of The Mummy Concierge , Tiffany Norris, who has worked with numerous A list celebrities and members of the British , has revealed everything you need to know.
From her opinion on time-saving gadgets to top tips on how you can reduce the stress of having two under two, the mum-of-four has shared her top tips…
FEEDING
Whether you opted for bottle or breast with your firstborn, there’s no right or wrong the second time round – fed is best and it all depends on personal preference.
But either way, encouraging your little one to take a bottle can help take some of the stress off as a new mum-of-two, as it means your partner can also help out and feel involved.
If you’re , then a wearable pump, such as the Medela Motion InBra , will help make your life easier.
The innovative design is shaped around you to avoid breast compression making it comfy, while the 2-Phase Expression mimics a baby’s natural sucking rhythm and is “proven to help mums get 11.8% more milk.”
Alternatively, if you decide formula feeding is more for you, then it could be worth investing in a formula prep maker, such as Baby Brezza’s ‘ Formula Pro Advanced ‘ to help instantly prepare warm and perfectly mixed formula bottles – a real timesaver!
The handy gadget allows you to choose from three different temperature settings and dispense formula or water only in 30 ml increments between 60-300 ml – so you never need to worry about miscounting those formula scoops during a tiresome night feed again.
Baby Brezza’s ‘Formula Pro Advanced’ machine is a popular choice amongst mums
While you may not have experienced it with your eldest, it’s worth noting that colic is very common in , affecting one in five, regardless of whether they’re breast or formula-fed.
According to the NHS website , “your baby may have colic if they cry more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week for at least 1 week but are otherwise healthy.”
But the good news is, there are ways to help – including your choice of baby bottle.
MAM’S ‘ Anti-Colic Baby Bottles ‘ claim to not only reduce air bubbles and colic, but they offer a unique self-sterilising function which is ideal for on the go.
Parents often time-manage naps and feeds – but grouping the chaos can be even smarter. For instance, schedule both kids’ bath time together or prep everyone’s snacks at once. One burst of energy equals more sanity later.
Tiffany Norris, The Mummy Concierge
“Less crying, more calm,” says Tiffany. “These are designed to reduce colic symptoms and make newborn feeding smoother – especially crucial when a toddler’s tugging at your leg at the same time.”
As per NHS guidelines , it’s vital to sterilise all feeding equipment until weaning and bottles until a year.
MAM’S ‘Anti-Colic Baby Bottles’ claim to not only reduce air bubbles and colicCredit: MAM
If both babies are on bottles, then it could be worth considering a bottle washer – it’ll prevent sore hands at the end of the day and a heap load of time too!
The ‘ Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer and Sterilizer ‘ features nine different modes, including the ‘Rapid Wash’ which cleans bottles in just 19 minutes.
It can hold up to four bottles from most major brands, along with other baby items, and keeps items dry, sterile, and free from 99.9% of airborne particles for up to 72 hours.
The ‘Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer and Sterilizer’ features nine different modesCredit: Momcozy
According to the NHS , you should start weaning when your baby is around six-months-old, alongside breast milk or formula, so at that point, you’re going to want to consider a high chair.
While airing on the pricier side, the Stokke Tripp Trapp chair has received overwhelmingly positive reviews and for good reason – with Jessie J even calling it the “best chair ever.”
Why? It’ll grow with your child from infancy to adulthood and promotes good posture by keeping feet supported at the table.
But, if you want to make your little one feel included in dinnertime before that, then you can also purchase a newborn attachment.
If you’re tight on space and don’t have the room for a high chair, then an alternative option is a booster seat.
Chicco’s ‘ Pocket Snack Booster Seat ‘ is both lightweight and sturdy, making it the perfect option for smaller rooms or for travel.
Tiffany’s top piece of advice is to “batch the chaos.”
She says: “Parents often time-manage naps and feeds , but grouping the chaos can be even smarter.
“For instance, schedule both kids’ bath time together or prep everyone’s snacks at once. One burst of energy equals more sanity later.”
SLEEPING
The ‘Snowdon classic cot bed’ is suitable from birth to 4 years and turns into a toddler bedCredit: icklebubba
While your little one will likely be in a next-to-me cot for the first six months, with two under two, chances are you’ll need to get yourself another cot.
Choosing one that offers an adjustable mattress base may just be one of the best decisions you’ll make as it could potentially save on backache further down the line.
Tiffany says that the ‘ Ickle Bubba Snowdon Classic Cot Bed ‘ is “built with longevity in mind.”
She explains: “The adjustable heights help during the newborn stage (no deep bending!), and it transforms into a toddler bed up to age 4 – it’s one big investment that grows with your family.”
For those who have trips or planned, you’re also going to want a safe and lightweight travel cot.
While many will provide one on request, chances are your little one is much more likely to have a better sleep in one they’re familiar with.
The ‘ BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light ‘ is suitable from newborn to around three years, or when your child is able to climb out of it, can be set up in one quick movement, has no upper weight limit and features removable and machine washable fabrics.
The ‘BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light’ is suitable from newborn to around 3 yearsCredit: BabyBjörn
The ‘Momcozy 5-Inch Dual-mode Smart Baby Monitor-BM04’ is an ideal option for growing familiesCredit: Momcozy
Then there’s the baby monitor to consider…
There are several dual cameras available on the market so you can keep a close eye on both of your little ones at the same time to really help give you peace of mind.
The ‘ Momcozy 5-Inch Dual-mode Smart Baby Monitor-BM04 ‘ is an ideal option for growing families because it features crying detection and real-time motion alerts, and can be connected up to four cameras.
Another popular choice for parents of two under two is the ‘ Nanit pro Baby monitor ‘ as it supports adding another camera so you can watch both baby and toddler in two rooms or two beds and on split screen via your phone.
It also allows you to share access with your partner or family member via the app so they’re able to monitor your little ones too.
For ultimate reassurance, many parents rave about the ‘ Owlet Dream Duo ‘ which pairs the HD video baby monitor with the Dream Sock, which tracks Baby’s oxygen level, pulse rate, and sleep trends with hospital-grade accuracy.
It offers real-time alerts if vital health readings fall outside preset zones.
Sharing her top tip when it comes to juggling sleep, Tiffany says: “Don’t aim for symmetry, aim for flow.”
She goes on to say that when you’ve got two under two, you need to forget the idea of doing everything equally for both.
“Focus on creating flow – routines that flex and overlap, so you’re not constantly firefighting,” the parenting expert continues.
“Sometimes that means the baby naps in the sling while you do snack time with the toddler – and that’s a win.”
CLOTHING
Sleepsuits come with two options, either poppers or zips.
The ones with zips get our vote as they allow quick access for nappy changes without disturbing your baby while they’re in the land of nod.
It’s also worth noting that fiddly poppers can become a lot trickier to work with when your baby starts moving around more.
One purchase first-time parents praised for making the dreaded nighttime change easier and were keen to buy again a second time round is Mori’s ‘Clever Zip Sleepsuits .’
Designed with a two-way zip front that’s concealed for safety, they’re crafted in a super soft fabric which is breathable, temperature-regulating and gentle on sensitive skin.
Mori’s ‘Clever Zip Sleepsuits’ are a firm favourite amongst parentsCredit: Mori
Knowing what to dress your baby in is just one of many questions a mum or dad will ask themselves every evening – after all, it’s important that you don’t let your baby get too hot or too cold when they sleep.
A sleeping bag, such as the high quality ones from much-loved brands Love to Dream , Ergopouch or Mori , is all you should need to keep them warm but it’s essential to choose the right one for the time of year.
NHS guidelines recommend:
2.5 tog: for use all year and for standard room temperatures of 16 to 20C (61 to 69F)
1.0 tog: for use in warmer and in warmer rooms of 20 to 24C (69-to 73F)
0.5 tog: for use in hot weather and warm room temperatures of 24 to 27C (73 to 80F)
Love To Dream’s ‘Sleep Bag Long Sleeve’ has been praised by mumsCredit: Love To Dream
Jojo Maman Bebe’s pramsuit is the perfect outer layer for chillier weather
For example, Love To Dream’s ‘Sleep Bag Long Sleeve’ is 1.5 tog material and is ideal for room temperatures between 18°C & 22°C – although always be sure to check your baby’s temperature.
It’s a great alternative for loose blankets, features long sleeves to help keep your little one’s arms warm and a double zip for easy access to make nappy changes easier.
It’s also advised to monitor your baby’s nursery using a room thermometer.
As for keeping warm on a winter’s day, a pramsuit, such as Jojo Maman Bebe’s ‘Cream Bear Print Cosy Pramsuit ,’ is the perfect outer layer for chillier weather.
The much-loved brand always comes out on top when it comes to the quality of their products – and they also sell soft and snuggly sleepsuits too complete with adorable designs.
Sharing another of her top pieces of advice, Tiffany says to make your toddler your teammate.
“The best way to avoid toddler resentment? Give them a ‘helper’ identity,” she explains.
“Let them fetch wipes or squeeze the lotion – little acts that make them feel like part of the caregiving team.”
A nappy caddy, such as those available from Avery Row , is a super easy way to keep all of the baby’s stuff organised, making it quick and easy for you, and your little ‘helper’ to grab what’s needed. After all, you never know when a ‘poonami’ is incoming!
EVERY DAY PRAMS
With two kids in tow, it’s important to have a lightweight double stroller that’s both compact and easy-to-maneuver – and there are few better options on the market than Baby Jogger’s ‘ city tour™ 2 double .’
The most common concern when it comes to a double pram is finding one that’s comfortable enough for your growing children, but narrow enough to fit through the door when you’re out and about on your own.
So we put several different brands and designs to the test, and this ultra compact side-by-side double stroller came out on top.
Not only did it breeze through a standard-size doorway, it has a one-step fold making it easier than ever to place in your car boot.
It also features multi-position padded seats that recline to a near-flat position, making travelling with two under two easier than ever so you’ll never dread going out alone again!
Baby Jogger’s ‘city tour™ 2 double’ is narrow enough to fit through a standard-size doorwayCredit: Baby Jogger
The ‘Cybex e-Gazelle S’ features e-powered hill and uneven surface supportCredit: Cybex
If you’re after a real sturdy double pram, then the ‘ Cybex e-Gazelle S ‘ is also a fantastic option, with parenting expert Tiffany calling it the “Swiss army knife of pushchairs” – and for good reason.
It features e-powered hill and uneven surface support to help with travel up or downhill, while the large wheels offer a smooth ride over even the roughest of terrain, giving those arms a well-deserved rest.
Not only that, but it’s lightweight, easy to fold and unfold, has a large basket underneath and a handle that adjusts perfectly for parents no matter what their height.
With limited hands, think upwards — not outwards. Use towers, carriers, and raised play to allow both children to be involved safely and stay connected
Tiffany Norris, The Mummy Concierge
And if your baby likes to be rocked to sleep, well you’re in luck! The pram also features a game-changing automatic rocking function to help to gently sooth your baby.
Tiffany adds: “It’s perfect for city walks or countryside strolls, it adapts as your children grow – and means fewer ‘who sits where?’ squabbles.”
Another great alternative is the ‘ Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V6 Pushchair ,’ which Tiffany says is the perfect choice for the “on-the-go explorer.”
Different parenting styles explained
There are four recognised styles of parenting explained below:
Authoritarian Parenting
What some might describe as “regimental” or “strict” parenting.
Parents with this style focus on strict rules, obedience, and discipline.
Authoritarian parents take over the decision-making power, rarely giving children any input in the matter.
When it comes to rules, you believe it’s “my way or the highway”.
Permissive Parenting
Often referred to as “soft parenting” or “yes mums/dads”.
Permissive parents are lenient, only stepping in when there’s a serious problem.
They’re quite forgiving and they adopt an attitude of “kids will be kids”.
Oftentimes they act more like friends than authoritative figures.
Authoritative Parenting
Authoritative parents provide their children with rules and boundaries, but they also give them the freedom to make decisions.
With an authoritative parenting style, parents validate their children’s feelings while also making it clear that the adults are ultimately in charge.
They use positive reinforcement techniques, like praise and reward systems, as opposed to harsh punishments.
Neglectful or Uninvolved Parenting
Essentially, neglectful parents ignore their children, who receive little guidance, nurturing, and parental attention.
They don’t set rules or expectations, and they tend to have minimal knowledge about what their children are doing.
Uninvolved parents expect children to raise themselves. They don’t devote much time or energy to meeting children’s basic needs.
Uninvolved parents may be neglectful but it’s not always intentional.
A parent with mental health issues or substance abuse problems, for example, may not be able to care for a child’s physical or emotional needs consistently.
Suitable from newborn to 4 years old, the all-terrain 3-wheel buggy seats two children (22kg capacity each), yet is just 72cm wide, meaning it fits through standard doorways – and we can vouch for that!
Featuring a durable design which is built to last, it offers rear suspension, a swivel-lock front wheel for stability on rough ground, and a lightweight aluminium frame that’s easy to handle.
There’s also a choice of two seat positions – upright or bucket-style – it takes just seconds to fold up to put away, and is compatible with one or two carrycots, as well as the Front Rider accessory – a fantastic optional feature to help keep the toddler entertained.
Tiffany explains: “The front rider step is brilliant for an independent toddler who hates being strapped in all day but still tires easily during long days out.”
The parenting expert goes on to say that even with two under two, a single pram is “handy for solo baby outings, quick errands, or when your older child insists on walking (until they inevitably don’t!)”
Out of all the single prams we tested, the Mamas & Papas Ocarro 2 Pushchair was a clear standout.
The Mamas & Papas Ocarro 2 Pushchair is built on the brand’s original award-winning modelCredit: Mamas & Papas
Built on the brand’s original award-winning model, it claims to now come with “upgraded wheels and brakes for greater off-road efficiency, plush fabrics for superior cocoon-like comfort, and compact fold and carry for effortless collapse and storage.”
So we put it to the test – and were left very impressed.
We took the pram for a spin on a variety of different surfaces, including on a dog walk up an uneven stone path, and it still offered a smooth and stable ride thanks to the large all-terrain wheels.
Other added bonuses include that it can be folded with one hand, has a large, easy-to-access basket and comes in a wide range of colours – from moonstone grey to teal.
Alternatively, if you’re a parent who is constantly in and out of the car, multi-tasking or in a hurry, then the Doona X car seat and stroller will prove invaluable as it transforms from a car seat to a stroller within seconds.
The clever design features three adjustable recline positions, meaning it can smoothly transition from an upright sitting posture to a near flat lie (or full recline) mode.
But no matter what pram you opt for, it’s worth investing in a baby bag, such as the water-repellant Bugaboo organiser , to help keep your baby essentials close-by.
If your toddler is prone to getting tired legs, an invaluable product will be a BuggyBoard, such as Lacsal’s BuggyBoard® Maxi .
Robust and practical, the mini or max version easily fits to a pram or buggy, giving tired toddlers a safe, practical lift and ride.
TRAVEL
Light (at 6.5kg) yet sturdy and compact enough to fit in most overhead cabins (but always check with your specific airline), the Joolz Aer 2 pram is our number one choice if you’re travelling abroad.
It’s easy to manoeuvre, smooth to push, can be unfolded with one hand in a matter of seconds and features a large shopping basket which is handy for being out and about.
Another major plus is that the seat can recline to a completely flat position, meaning it’s the perfect on-the-go pram for when your baby needs a nap.
The Joolz Aer 2 pram is light (at 6.5kg) yet sturdyCredit: Joolz
The ‘smarTrike Traveler’ is a total gamechanger for both parents and childrenCredit: SmarTrike
If your newborn is content in a baby carrier and you’re looking for a fun way to keep your toddler entertained while on the go, then look no further than a trike.
The ‘ smarTrike Traveler ‘ is suitable from six months up to four years and helps with promoting independence, refining motor skills, and supporting healthy development through play and exploration.
If you’re quite the adventurer and are looking for an alternative to a stroller, then a lightweight toddler carrier is a total must-have.
Whether you’re going for a sunset walk along the beach or a Sunday stroll through your local nature reserve, Scandibørn’s ‘ Wildride Toddler Carrier ‘ is the perfect option for places that strollers can’t reach.
The Lacsal BuggyBoard is ideal for giving tired toddlers a safe, practical lift and ride
Baby Björn’s ‘Baby Carrier Mini,’ will give you the gift of being hands freeCredit: Baby Björn
And if your child has a tendency to start toddling off in the opposite direction to where you wish to go, firstly, you’re not alone!
Secondly, there’s a very handy solution that means you won’t have to run around in circles with your newborn baby in tow – reins.
What’s great is that they now come in all different colours and designs, such as LittleLife’s ‘ Mermaid Toddler Backpack with Rein ,’ so it shouldn’t be a struggle getting them on your little one.
“It gives freedom with peace of mind and gives your toddler a sense of independence while you keep control,” Tiffany explains.
“It’s essential when you’ve got a baby in your arms and a toddler eager to explore.”
Alternatively, if you’re looking to get loads of jobs done around the house or are partial to a stroll outside, a baby carrier, such as Baby Björn‘s ‘ Baby Carrier Mini ,’ will give you the gift of being hands free – and you can’t put a price on that!
It’s sturdy yet light enough to quickly get on and off and will make your first months as a new parent both easier and cosier.
Tiffany urges new mums-of-two to “rotate attention, not guilt.”
She explains: “You can’t give both children full attention all the time. But if you consciously rotate who gets your focus (even in 10-minute spurts), you’ll actually meet their emotional needs better — and feel calmer too.”
CAR SEATS
A car seat is one of the most important purchases you’ll make for your baby. So, how do you know which is the right one for you?
It’s worth trying a few in your car before making a decision.
Cybex’s ‘ Sirona Gi i-Size ‘ is one of many available on the market and is very a popular choice.
It’s rear-facing for safer travel, features integrated Linear Side-impact Protection for defense from all directions and offers that princess 360° rotation to make getting them in and out all the easier.
Plus, it comes with five reclining positions to provide tailored comfort in either direction, for tiny newborns and fully-grown four-year-old’s alike.
Cybex’s ‘Sirona Gi i-Size’ is rear-facing for safer travelCredit: Cybex
Cybex’s ‘Anoris T2 i-Size Plus’ features a full-body airbag and all-round air ventilationCredit: Cybex
Tiffany says: “Less lifting, happier backs. The 360 swivel feature makes it so much easier to get your little one in and out when you’ve got two different car seat stages side-by-side.”
For older toddlers, from 15 months up to approximately seven years (child weight up to 21kg and height 76-125cm) Cybex offers the ‘Anoris T2 i-Size Plus ,’ which the online product description claims is a “world leader in forward-facing car seat technology.”
It features a full-body airbag and all-round air ventilation which is enhanced by innovative mesh, while forward-facing travel allows more legroom, meaning car journeys never need to be exhausting again!
PLAY TIME
Sharing another top tip, Tiffany advises: “Think vertical, not horizontal.”
She explains: “With limited hands, think upwards — not outwards. Use towers, carriers, and raised play to allow both children to be involved safely and stay connected, even when your arms are full.”
When it comes to products, Tiffany says ‘ The Original – Height Adjustable Folding Learning Tower ‘ is a “game-changer for multitasking.”
Explaining the benefits of the learning tower, she explains: “It encourages your toddler’s independence and lets them safely join kitchen activities, helping them feel involved as you cook, prep bottles, or wash up.”
Available in four different colours to suit your personal taste and aesthetics, it also features a ‘safety bar’ to ensure that your child doesn’t accidentally step backwards whilst standing on the platform.
Tiffany says ‘The Original – Height Adjustable Folding Learning Tower’ is a ‘gamechanger’Credit: learningtowers
And if storage space is the only thing putting you off, then fear not – because the compact design means it can fold away discreetly, all while growing with your child.
As for keeping two under two entertained, a subscription for ‘ Lovevery playkits ‘ is a great idea as it includes stage-based play essentials for your child’s developing brain.
Another fab option is the Toniebox 2 , which is a kid-friendly audio player that’s suitable from ages 1-9 and will take your child from gentle sounds and first words to fully independent storytelling and gaming.
With a vast number of characters available to buy – from Ms Rachel to Paddington – you simply place them on the Toniebox and play out a story.
It’s a great way to limit TV time and to help with the bedtime routine.
While it’s all too easy for parents to be tough on themselves and feel like they’re failing, Tiffany urges you to “embrace micro-moments over milestones.”
She says: “When you’re in the trenches, big achievements feel impossible.
“Instead, find joy in micro-moments — that look of sibling connection, those five quiet minutes, that first shared giggle. They build the bond just as much as grand ‘family moments.’”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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