Here you go again!  It seems like you just had a baby and now you're expecting again.  With all that you're doing for the little one already, it can be hard to fathom taking it up a notch to care for a newborn.  From double the amount of diapers to double strollers, there are some unique challenges that come with having "twins the hard way."  Whether planned or unexpected, many mothers find themselves in this very same predicament, trying not to be overwhelmed.  At first glance, it may seem like you'll be caught in a hectic whirlwind, seeing doubles—literally!  But there is hope.  With proper planning and patience, you may even find that raising children that are close together in age is a godsend.  So sit down, relax with a cup of tea and drink in this advice from other victorious mothers who have travelled this road before you:

Have kids, will travel
But what's the best way?  I saw an adventurous Dad carrying a baby in a sling and a toddler in a harness on his back.  Ouch!  That's one option, but for those who had something easier in mind, you might want to opt for a double stroller instead.  There are side-by-side, limo-style and even double-decker strollers where the toddler seat goes on top.  They all have their pros and cons, but here are some things to consider based on your lifestyle:  whether it converts if you only have one child with you, the ease with which it can get through doors, whether it is lightweight and easy to get in and out of the car, whether you prefer your children separated or together within hair-pulling reach, and whether both seats fully recline or not.  Considering these factors now can keep you from having stroller remorse later.

Shhhh!  Baby is sleeping
Since the older child may have already established a sleep pattern, having the newborn sleeping (and waking through t
he night) in the same room may be a problem.  Keep them separate until they are on the same schedule.

Get Ready for the "Chase and Hold"
Remember, while you're holding one you may be chasing the other.  It can be quite a busy time.  Stay organized and get your rest!  Sleep is the best defense for handling multiple children.  When the toddler naps throughout the day, so should you and baby.

The "Carry Everything But The Kitchen Sink" Diaper Bag
The roomier the better, a durable diaper bag with several pockets and compartments works best for carrying all their stuff, and yours too!  Avoid carrying an additional purse for your belongings, unless you can slip it inside the diaper bag.  Backpacks are a great way to carry your gear and keep your hands free!

Preparation makes smooth transitions
Before the new baby is born, teach the other child to play independently for up to 30 minutes at a time.  Gradually delay giving him something he asked for (a drink, a snack, a toy) for just a minute or two so that he learns patience.  Remember, you might not always be able to attend to his needs straight away with a new baby.  Put up the baby's furniture or move your toddler to a new bedroom well in advance.  Place baby clothes, toys, etc. around the house so the toddler gets used to them.  Definitely have a present for the sibling from the newborn baby when they first meet.

While there may be many twists and turns in the road ahead, many parents cruise right by sibling rivalries, as the children are typically best friends!  They also learn from each other.  The older one seems to motivate the younger to keep up.  Seeing the older brother using the "big-boy potty," for example, makes the younger son want to do the same.  All in all, there may be a lot of work ahead but most agree that it's a road they have gladly travelled.

Susan H. is a writer for Corner Stork Baby Gifts where you can shop for sibling gifts and unusual and unique baby gifts.