Twin mom and Baby Sleep Coach Katherine Fehily, of Dallas, TX discusses how parents with twins or multiples should sleep train for maximum success.
Every evening, the clock would strike 7, signaling the beginning of the bedtime routine. However, Aspyn and Jameson had a different idea. As soon as the pajamas came out, they seemed to transform into tiny escape artists, giggling and running around the room like a pair of miniature tornadoes.
My twins are now two, let me share my journey of sleep-training them in the same room. I will help you understand the unique challenges that come with getting two little ones to sleep peacefully, and offer insights, tips, and strategies that have worked for me. Embarking on the twin sleep training journey is no small feat, but it’s a path paved with shared laughter, triumphs, and the unmistakable joy of watching two tiny humans peacefully drift off to dreamland together.
Crafting the Ultimate Sleep Haven – Create Dual Comfort Zones
Setting the stage for the best sleep for twins requires a delicate balance between individualized care and synchronized routines. By creating a consistent, comfortable, and calm sleep environment for each twin, you increase the likelihood of fostering healthy sleep patterns for both. Adapt these suggestions based on your twins’ unique needs and remember that flexibility and patience are key when navigating the sleep journey with multiples. Sweet dreams for your dynamic duo.
- Use individual cribs for each twin to ensure they have their own sleep space. This helps prevent disruptions caused by one twin waking the other.
- Symmetrically arrange the nursery to create a balanced environment. This may include placing cribs on opposite sides of the room and using identical furnishings.
- Install blackout curtains to create a dark and soothing sleep environment. This is particularly beneficial for synchronizing sleep schedules and promoting longer periods of rest.
- Keep the room temperature consistent and comfortable for both twins. Dress them in layers so you can adjust them based on individual preferences. Downloadable dressing chart
- Two White Noise Machines Place under the cribs – Use white noise machines for each twin to mask sounds and create a consistent auditory environment. This can be especially helpful in minimizing disruptions between the twins.
- Develop personalized bedtime routines for each twin, ensuring they receive individual attention. However, try to coordinate the routines to create a sense of consistency.
Syncing Schedules: The Holy Grail of Naptime with Twins
Syncing twin sleep schedules can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Creating a consistent routine helps establish healthy sleep habits and ensures a more peaceful experience for both the twins and their parents. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sync twin sleep schedules:
- Understand Individual Sleep Needs – Recognize that each twin is unique. Observe their sleep patterns, preferences, and any signs of tiredness or readiness for sleep. One of my twins sleeps 10 hours each night and one sleeps 12 hours. When the 10-hour baby woke up I rushed in quickly to grab her and ensure the other baby got to sleep more.
- Whenever possible, try to synchronize your twins’ nap schedules. This can provide you with a break and allow you to manage household tasks more efficiently. If one twin wakes up before the other, consider giving them some independent playtime until their sibling wakes up.
- Encourage the twins to wake up at the same time each morning. This consistency helps regulate their internal clocks and contributes to syncing their sleep schedules. Natural light exposure during the day and dim lighting in the evening can help regulate the twins’ circadian rhythms. Consider spending time outside during the day and dimming lights as bedtime approaches.
Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to be flexible and adjust your approach based on your twins’ individual personalities and needs. If you find that sleep issues persist, consider consulting with a pediatrician or a sleep specialist for personalized guidance.
Katherine is a renowned baby & toddler sleep coach based in Dallas, Texas, with a specialization in twins. Her dedication to improving the sleep patterns of children aged 1 to 4 years has earned her a well-deserved reputation as a trusted sleep expert within the local community and beyond. Beyond her role as a sleep coach, Katherine is also an active member of the Mothers of Multiples Chapter in Plano, Texas, where she offers valuable insights and support to parents of twins and multiples. Her journey towards becoming a pediatric sleep coach is a testament to her passion for engineering solutions that help families achieve their unique sleep goals. Learn more and book a call with Katherine today.
