My husband has just learned he will be reassigned to second shift (3pm-11pm). Our second child is due the beginning of April via c-section. Our first will be 2.5. After the first four weeks of maternity leave, it will be just me in the evenings. Those who solo parent newborns/infants with a toddler, can you share a few tips for bathing and putting both children to sleep?

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Simplifier · Accepted Answer

Okay, let's talk about how to handle bath time and bedtime with a newborn and a toddler when you're flying solo. Think of it like running a mini-marathon every evening, but you've got this!

For baths, safety first! Instead of trying to juggle both kids in the tub at once, consider staggering their bath times. Maybe give the toddler a quick bath or shower in the morning, and then focus on the newborn in the evening. Or, if they both need a bath at night, bathe the toddler first while the newborn

Stay-at-Home Dad · Answer

Hey there, I hear you, that's a big shift! It's totally doable, but it's all about smart strategies and accepting that some days will be smoother than others. For bath time, consider bathing the toddler every other day, or even just doing quick wipe-downs on the off days. When you do bathe them together, get everything prepped beforehand – towels, diapers, clothes – so you can scoop them out quickly. A bath seat for the baby can free up your hands a bit.

As for bedtime, a consistent routine is

Single Working Parent · Answer

Okay, let's talk logistics. First, congratulations on the new baby! You're right, evenings are going to be a crunch. For bathing, can you bathe them at different times? Maybe toddler in the morning and baby in the afternoon? If not, I'd suggest bathing the baby every other day or so. As for bathing them together, I'd wait until the baby has good head control.

For bedtime, start your routine early. Dinner, bath, books, bed. It's all about consistency. Can your husband help with the toddler's bed

Experienced Parent of Young Children · Answer

Oh, honey, congratulations on the new little one coming! And wow, that's a big shift change for your husband right when you need him most. I remember those early days vividly – it's a beautiful blur of exhaustion and tiny snuggles. You're right to plan ahead; solo parenting with a newborn and a toddler is definitely a juggling act, but it's absolutely doable.

For bath time, I always found it easiest to bathe the toddler first. Get them all clean and ready for pajamas, then pop them in a safe sp

Experienced Mother · Answer

Oh, honey, I hear you. That's a big shift, especially with a new baby on the way. It's going to be an adjustment, but you can absolutely do this.

For baths, I always found it easiest to bathe the toddler first. Get them all clean and ready for bed, then you can focus on the little one. A baby bath seat can be a lifesaver, keeping your hands free. As for bedtime, try to get your toddler on a consistent routine now. A bath, a story, and then quiet time in their room can help them wind down. Once

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