Thank you for mentioning mum guilt. That is exactly how I feel now - like I'm betraying my daughter because I'm pregnant again... never knew anyone else feels the same way! I just love how open and honest you are. I guess it's not easy to remain authentic when you can be so easily judged... that's why I thank you even more ❤❤❤
I definitely had mom guilt. My boys are two years apart too. Leonidas, my second, was colicky so it was really hard but honesty now that they're 2 and 4 it's easier than having one kid. They love playing together.
I love this video Ashley! I’m 12 weeks pregnant with my second (my toddler is 21mo) and this video is such a relief honestly. My biggest worries are about loving my second as much as my first and my toddler not getting the same amount of attention she does now. I’m doing everything I can to prepare but I love the realness of this video ❤️
Thanks SO much for this video! I am 37weeks pregnant and have 3 years old boy, working on startup... I feel lately beeing disconnected from my older one and being nervous and unpatient, worrying all the time how I am going to do this.. this calmed me down, I know we will do this together ❤️
I stumbled on your channel and now I'm hooked. Thank you for your frankness and realness of your videos. I'm drowning right now I just needed to hear another mum just share how they manage. My girls are 3yrs apart...youngest is now 12months and oldest 4yrs so I can relate to what you are talking about
I am so glad I came across your channel. I am a mom of a preschooler and a 9month old. I was so patient with my 1st daughter but now that I have 2, I feel like I needed a new approach. So glad to learn about the Montessori style discipline. I had so much mom guilt- worrying on top post partum. Watching your videos are so encouraging. your parenting style is AMAZIN!!!
Thanks for sharing this. I think this is one of the most under-talked about things of parenting. Mine are 18 months apart (2 and 3.5). Its helped to let them have 45 minutes of screen time after getting ready in the morning so I can get stuff done and having a designated "quiet time" in the afternoon while the youngest is napping. I listened to a pod cast where a mom would put her children in different rooms to play and set a timer. She'd say, "I'm going to hide, come find me when the timer goes off." Eventually she worked up to 30 minutes of alone time.
Its refreshing to hear those mom guilt feelings & thoughts of wondering if you can love another child as much as your first goes away after you have your 2nd. My daughter will be 2 in May and we are starting to talk about having a 2nd and i want her to have a sibling but im so scared of my first feeling left out or something.
We have similar experiences as far as having kids. I had mayson in june, got pregnant and had an early miscarriage when he was 14 months, then got pregnant with my second who was born 5 days before mayson turned 2. And I felt SO GUILTY having another baby. I was scared of him not being able to adjust. The beginning was a little odd, he wasn't really interested, but now they are so close and I love it. The first 6-8 weeks were a blur. And having my second I've realized how much I took maysons independence for granted!
♥️♥️♥️ I agree 100%. I have two little girls 4 years and 4 months and you just described my life right now xD especially the bathroom I feel like it's a parade everytime I go
I literally just found out this morning that I’m expecting baby 2! We have a 21 month old so she will be about 2.5 when the new baby (ahhhh!) gets here in December. I’m researching this again now that it’s real!
When I go to the bathroom I leave the door open but my toddler knows I’d rather him stay outside the door and he does most of the time. Recently my almost 1 year old has become mobile and he doesn’t respect the threshold lol
My son is almost 2 years old and still wants to be in the bathroom with me, eventhough i'm doing nr2. When he was younger he'd want to sit on my lap ._. Guess it's just one of those things that becomes normal!
It's because your sitting still, if you're not moving around they think that's the time they can have you to themselves. My kid climbs on to of me the minute I sit down even if it's just to tie my shoes.
Do you feel like your overall stress levels have doubled? I am worried that I’ll wear myself thin with two but then on the other hand I can’t picture not having two...😩
oh my goodness i actually cried watching this video! i will have a 2 year old toddler and a newborn baby in the summer and all i can think about is how is my little girl going to cope, will she be really upset, bored, jealous? Shes going to have to move into her own room which neither of us wants so im dreading that! especially as shes a terrible sleeper. All these worries in my head i havent had time to actually be excited about having another baby
You gotta do what you gotta do! Lol I put mine in the boppy when he was tiny while I did all that now he’s walking and exploring and getting into everything and it’s sooooo much harder I dont wanna imagine when my next gets here in April.
I put mine in his little rocking chair and he just watched me poop and happily played with the toys hanging over him. Hubby tried the same thing once and told me baby started crying before he could even start his business. 🤣
Ashley, just so you know, you and your channel are incredible: I L.O.V.E. every single video you have ever made - how is that possible? You geniuuuuus!!!! ;-) Also, on a different note, this video in particular just made me wish that we were actual friends and I didn´t live across the Atlantic so that we could literally have coffee and chat every other day! haha Much love to you guys!
Love the Danish way of parenting book. Particularly how instead of 'terrible twos' they see it as the boundary testing and independence age. So much more positive.
I know it's not the same but I'm experiencing 'mom guilt' about my first baby because I don't want my cats to feel neglected. These cats have been my babies throughout my years of infertility and we are all close. I would hate for them to feel pushed out. 😿
I think every mom goes through it when going from one to two. It’s such a mental struggle. Luckily as Ashley mentioned, it’s totally unwarranted in the end. Love is so amazing.
Yeah my biggest fear is exactly what she said, “am i going to love this baby as much as I do my son”? “Am I going to start neglecting my toddler now?” It sucks but Ashley is great at reassuring!:)
Dividing love...does not happen...even with our 7th😂. What I have found for me was that going from 1 to 2 children and from 4 to 5 have been the hardest transitions. I have found that as long as I keep a proper schedule/ more of a routine and make sure I spend 1 on 1 time every day with each of my children the mom guilt stays at bay. As we have had our younger children our olders have been so excited to have "their" babies....at our home we fight over who's turn it is to play with the little loves...so never worry about adding to your home in this way, but you will definitely know when you home is complete.
For the picky eating, I have a "snack shelf" in both the fridge and cupboard stocked with healthy choices so that if there is a refusal to eat they can go choose an alternative...which I rotate Montessori style too...
It felt so good to hear another human speak my thoughts. I've been having anxiety attacks over having another... and about not. You're the best hun! Thank you for your light!
Everything you said is so true and then some...also I can’t remember the last time I went to the bathroom by myself unless my kids were in bed 😂...even my dogs join the party 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏼♀️
Hi Ashley! What a great video, I feel like I always learn so much from you. Research for the future, is how I like to think of it. I'm sorry people can be so judgy - you're obviously an amazing mother, dedicated to raising amazing kids. Also, recently saw your instagram story of Mia's new set up in the play room. Will you be making a full video on that? Please say yes! :D
Such an interesting video. I’m not a mother, but I feel like the complexities and mental/emotional/physical nuances of having another child is often overlooked. Lovely video 🖤🖤🖤
“I often find myself putting my own needs on the back burner.” I feel like this is motherhood in its entirety summed up in one sentence! But you wouldn’t have it any other way ❤️
We’ve just welcomed our second child with an exact 2 year age gap. So this is so helpful for me, even helped give me an insight to how things might be in the future! Thanks for your honesty ☺️ Your doing great 🥳 x
I am a first time mom, my daughter is about to be 4 months. Your videos have completely changed my views on parenting and I've used many of your Montessori and parenting methods, they have saved my life! I feel alot more confident with my baby! You seriously are inspired and you are SO cool! Thank you for your videos 🙏🏻❤
Yepppp I take naps all the time when I can with my crazy 19m old. I want to enjoy my summer and then I think we’re gonna try for baby #2. We’re still debating 😂 cause yeah the only free time we get is when this girl is sleeping. We don’t rely on babysitters or family for much help. She’s only spent the night out at grandmas once and it’s when we had our housewarming party 😂
"its a pretty good skill" lol LOVE it.... actually it's an AMAZING skill!!! And don't be afraid to take a nap instead of editing for us....WE'LL all still be here to support you when you wake up 😘
I had a hard time eating as a daycare provider, but if you can prepare everyone’s plate at the same time with Kylie either helping or busy at the table. OR plate up at the table. Say a prayer or say something you’re thankful for about your day, then eat together as a family (or in my case group) and enjoy your girls! If you can work out an after lunch nap for Mia and clean up with Kylie before an easy rest time for her if she can 😊 just an idea, but I love this because I need the structure of a schedule with 9 kids from 3m-7y 😳
Thank you so much for making this video! First of all, I recently found your channel and am learning SO much from you and am now taking small steps to make our house more Montessori-friendly for my 2 year old. I didn’t even really know what Montessori was before finding you, so thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and your passion with us. You’re doing a really important thing. Second, I don’t even do this but it got me thinking as you were talking about your stuffed backpack- what if you had a little bin in your car that always had extra changes of clothes, diapers, snacks, etc so you didn’t have to always worry about having it on you? I know some things you NEED in your bag, but things like clothes or an emergency stash of non-perishable snacks so it was just one less thing to worry about forgetting to pack. Just a thought, and advice I might actually use myself 🤪 Thanks again for all you do. We’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time ❤️
I’m currently 18 weeks pregnant and I wish to have two kids eventually, so thank you for making this video, Ashley! My sister and I are 15 months apart and that is seriously the best thing that has ever happened in my life, having her! So I’m hoping to manage to have two kids who are also as close apart, just because I don’t remember a life without my sis and I never could imagine one. ❤️
I don't have any kiddos of my own yet, but I totally get the whole "not being allowed to go to the bathroom in private" thing! Being the oldest of 4 sisters and having lots of younger cousins to babysit, I feel like I've spent half my life being followed to the bathroom. Even now, when I look after my 3 yr old god-daughter for the day, she follows me... The struggle is real folks! 😂
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I started to follow you when my son was 6 months old and your video about BLW was my favorite)) now he is 1,4 so me and my husband started to think, hm, maybe we should think about the next step and trying to have one more baby)) and your video makes me think that no matter how difficult things can be, it's worth it! Sending you love and hugs after the 11th of may from Kazakhstan and thank you again!
Can you explain a little bit more about why you wanted to have 2 kids versus 3 or 4? My husband and I are weighing the pros and cons of having 2 versus 3, and I'd like to know why you found being one of 3 (and then 4) to be too much. Thanks so much!
I only have 1 kid and I never go to the bathroom alone. If I dare to lock my toddler outside the bathroom door, she would kick the door and cry so load like I abandoned her. Even daddy offered her company, she would say no daddy, mommy mommy mommy....
Oh my lanta! This was so helpful! Thank you!! I’m due next month w our second baby. Our first will be exactly 2.5 years old. The very first topic you touched on, really hit home- I started to tear up (probably my hormones) but I have that fear- I love my first so much and to hear how your heart just opened up more for Mia was so validating. Love your videos! Thanks Ashley! Ugh... dreading the lack of sleep thing tho 😭
I have a three year old and a seven month old. They both fell asleep during the day this week. And I got an hour and a half nap. Let me tell you...that has only happened maybe 3 times this past 7 months. Glorious!!
Coming back over half a day later to finish this video and your description of the butt wiping and nursing situation is soooo true to having two kids 😆
You are an amazing mom. You are such an inspiration to me, a mom of 2 (just had my second in Nov 2019) & my toddler is 32 months. We have had such a difficult time transitioning with my older one since the baby came. I look at your day in the life vlog with awe. Thank you for all your tips and I look forward to your videos every week.
I 100% understand where you are coming from. I have a 19month old daughter and a 3month old son. Every single point I was like yep, oh yeah, I feel you haha your doing amazing! Xo
Thank you so much for making this video! I recently found your channel, I'm learning SO much from you and how to incorporate the Montessori approach into our home (I´m watching pretty much every single video haha). Also, we’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. I do have a "small" question, due to we moved to a different city and don´t have any help (also because of covid...) How do you manage not having any help (but Mike)?? Or do you have a nanny when you have a date night with Mike?
Love this! When you said you have a skill of nursing & wiping 🧻 😂 story of my life. I too have a 3 (daughter) & 1 (son) year old. Two I’d definitely time consuming but worth while. From one momma to another wishing you & your family lots of happiness & love & also to mommas doing more self care 🥳
Thank you for this video, I needed it so badly - I’m expecting my second baby and there will be also 2 years gap beetween them. Did you compare your emotions and love towards them during pregnancy as a part of the mom guilt? You mentioned that the great love for Mia - as strong as for Kylie - appeared after giving birth. I feel guilty for not having the same emotions for both of my children even though it’s the beginning of second trimester 😕
Hi, Ashley I’m expecting a baby in Aug while my first child will be 2y6m. I’m not sure how did you handling 2 children, like different sleeping schedule and daily routine … Could u pls share some of your tips or advice with me, that will be much appreciated ❤️
I really needed to watch this. I'm 2 months pregnant with my second child (constantly sick and tired) and my daughter is 11 months! I've been going through the "mom guilt". Thank you for this honest video. We all need "real talk" with more mamas more than we think!
I was literally just looking for this video and it auto played from a different one of your videos! And I’m having mommy guilt because my 5 year old is sharing a room with his baby brother!
My kids are April 2017 and June 2019 and so much of what you said is exactly how I feel. My Son gave up naps as well but he does 1h of quiet time during my daughter's afternoon nap. I don't know if that would work for you but it is the much needed break in our day for everyone
Aahh finally watching this again now im at 7 months just 2 months nearly left until the baby arrives and im starting to stress out about preparing the environment and preparing my toddler. I can already feel how exhausted i will be. Home education is a jour ey i am planning on starting properly but i think that will happen after the baby is settled a bit and i have more independence in driving at my own pace. Ahahha the mess is something i am getting used to now taht our cluttered environment is a point of interest for the exploration of my toddler. She's never really interacted with all the clutter i guess because it was overwhelming but is really keen on climbing up and getting into everything trying to use everything or drop it and hear what sound it makes or break it. I am running out of ideas to deal with the desire to explore these sensory experiences but unable to take control of the environment. 😩 Hahah the testing limits stage is so strong right now and i am just barely hanging on but cannot imgine this with a newborn. We have had days pretending that 'teddie' is baby and i feed him whilst playing with her or he is beside us on his mat looking at a mobile or looking at us whilst we play and that i am holding him or have him in a wrap whilst we prepare and eat dinner.
Hi Ashley. Love your videos & content. My son is Mia's age. I'm conflicted as to whether a two year age gap or three is ideal . Please share your view. Thank you .
At three years old, a child will definitely be a little bit more capable of independence from the very beginning, which would probably make things a little easier for you. Then again, at two, Kylie wasn’t quite yet into the jealousy stage, that was only a more recent development. So it made the initial time of having a new baby in the house easier for her to manage. At three, I think the jealousy would be in full swing right from day one. 🤷🏼♀️ But it also depends on your child’s temperament. So there really is no right answer to this.
i have a 3 year old and 3 month old. there is no jealousy towards the baby. and there are moments where she plays independently. but she still does not understand the concept of "give me a minute". if she wants me to play with her NOW, she means now, and i just can't do it like before. she also never had tantrums at 2....but now that she's 3 she has become soooo much more stubborn. so i think either way, it will be hard. but its not forever!
@@frizzzx86 Thank you for sharing your experience. Me and my sister were born 2 years 4 months apart. My mom says that I wud demand to be held & fed and wat not. She was pretty chilled baby , me on the other hand wud occasionally demand my mom's attention. I was put into a playschool for 4 hours everyday & it was a game changer. I loved the school. Mom & sis had their time together. Lol that was 29 years ago. Hope it helps. Good luck to you. Love to your daughter & baby 😍
OMG I'm just 3 minutes into the video and it already feels so relatable - I knew I wanted 2 kids but when my daugher was born, I started thinking "how am I going to split the love for her in two so I can love another child?"
Fun tip from German moms. I’m leaving in Germany, although I’m not a German. And something that I’m seeing a lot, is that the moms here as soon as the child is around 2yo the child carries his own backpack with their stuff.🤔 At first I was like ”wow, what a lazy mom”, but the more I see it, the more I get it and it’s actually brilliant. And kids actually love it, because they feeling older, more responsible and of course the backpacks are cute to die🥰. Of course we are talking for a small Kids size backpack. And I was able to see a few times what they are carrying inside and it was 1-2 diapers, a small water bottle, an extra bottom change (travel roll packing) and a travel size water wipes. German parenting style has many things in common with the Montessori parenting actually. They also get rid of the stroller as soon as possible. In my opinion, waaay to soon🤷🏻♀️ I’m constantly seeing tired toddlers everywhere because of the stroller😅
Thank you for being so honest!!! I'm a mom of three girls 2, 4, and 6 yrs old and I sooooo wish this video was out before I had kids. All the new mom's need to watch this! It's difficult and not always bunnies and rainbows, but that still doesn't mean it's not the best thing ever 😁❤️. Loved the whole video and I can Soo vouch for the sleep and bathroom parts of this video 💯 haha TAKE ALL THE NAPS!! ok 😂🤣. And you will never poop in peace again 🤣🤣❤️
Hi i'm a mom of 2 kids 21 month apart and i'm so agree with all you say, my younger is 6month old and it seems like i don't live anymore. I hope it will be better in a few month... (i'm french sorry for my poor english)
I'm usually not the commenting type of person when it comes to youtube videos although loving your content very much. But I just have to say it: THANK YOU for the toilet story!!! I felt so weird when I had to pee with my little daughter in the baby sling. And it's just something you don't ever have people talk about - I'm so happy it's not just me! Btw: she's a year old now and very interested in what I'm doing there, so I literally have to hold her back a bit because otherwise she would try to stick her head into the toilet to watch me wipe myself clean... Also thank you so much for all your videos! They help me so much. Sometimes I just feel like, Hell, it would be so much easier (for the moment) to just say "no, and that's the end of it" or simply let her rage with some seemingly stupid whim. But then in a quiet moment I sit down and watch one of your videos and it motivates me so much to go on with what we started.
We are about to begin ttc-ing for baby number 2 and this video was very helpful and brought to mind things I wouldn't have thought about. Thank you for creating it 😁
It's great to hear your experience! And also a little bit scary! 🙈 My son is 2 years old now, and we decided we wanted to wait until he is older before looking for a second child... I'm still breastfeeding, the baby doesn't sleep through the night and is not "potty trained"... So you could imagine how hard it will be... But I've seen all your videos, you've done a really great job raising those beautiful girls... You truly are an inspiration for me to try to be a better parent to my kid... ❤️
cant imagine how youre managing with 2 kids. your must be entitled as supermom! my mom said she used to take me to washroom when I was a toddler, open the tap n let me play with running water. but I wait for someone(hubby, in-laws, maid)to hold my baby while i m in washroom as i m scared of taking a curious baby to washroom. yeah, dads must know the luxury of spending time in washroom.
I laughed so hard with the transparency of the last few minutes. Thank you for sharing! My daughter will be 2.5 when our baby comes in July, and I found this very helpful.
I just LOVE your honesty, the way you talk and the valuable content you put out there for us, fellow busy mommas. Thank YOU for sacrifising your me time so that we can learn from you ❤
I’ve found all of the videos of yours that I’ve watched to be so informative and fun to watch! I’ve always loved watching family channels and I’m no where near even planning on having a kid yet 😅
Oh my gosh I really feel you with not being able to totally engage in the imaginative play...i really find myself struggling to do that with my 4 year old and entertain my 2 year old at the same time. Ive had to become pretty creative with play time lol
What a great video! This video was spot on. First and foremost, I want to say you are doing a fanatic job. I am a mom of 2 boys. They are 2 years and 6 days apart, to be exact. They are currently 5 and 3. It was extremely difficult I recall. Let me assure you that it does get easier as they get older. It gets easier in certain aspects but difficult in others such as : the older one has homework now (a lot ) and it’s difficult when your gone for 12 hours a day and have limited time with them. They will be arguing over the same toy a lot which will be a challenge. However .... with that being said, I am beyond happy with the decision of having them close in age bc they really are best friends. There bond truly melts my heart ❤️ . You’re doing a fantastic job Mama !
Best video ever! I nodded so often, laughed a lot because I recognize so many things (especially the nursing and wiping 😂) and even had tears in my eyes in the end. I have an almost 4 year old girl and 15 month old boy. It's absolutely exhausting and the most beautiful thing at the same time.
Oh how I wish my son would chase after the shopping cart... He's a runner and I'm the chaser and terrified to have this second baby in a couple months, lol. I don't know how you do UA-cam on top of it all, I did the UA-cam thing for awhile, but it was too exhausting for me. I still make videos for fun now and then though, lol, to capture the memories :)
I view you as my *favorite* “UA-cam mom” 😉😃
🥰🥰🥰🥰 aww thank you!
Thank you for mentioning mum guilt. That is exactly how I feel now - like I'm betraying my daughter because I'm pregnant again... never knew anyone else feels the same way!
I just love how open and honest you are. I guess it's not easy to remain authentic when you can be so easily judged... that's why I thank you even more ❤❤❤
I just lost it at "I have learned simultaneously to wipe Kylee's butt while nursing Mia" hahahah! you are just the best!
I definitely had mom guilt. My boys are two years apart too. Leonidas, my second, was colicky so it was really hard but honesty now that they're 2 and 4 it's easier than having one kid. They love playing together.
I love this video Ashley! I’m 12 weeks pregnant with my second (my toddler is 21mo) and this video is such a relief honestly. My biggest worries are about loving my second as much as my first and my toddler not getting the same amount of attention she does now. I’m doing everything I can to prepare but I love the realness of this video ❤️
Thanks SO much for this video! I am 37weeks pregnant and have 3 years old boy, working on startup... I feel lately beeing disconnected from my older one and being nervous and unpatient, worrying all the time how I am going to do this.. this calmed me down, I know we will do this together ❤️
I stumbled on your channel and now I'm hooked. Thank you for your frankness and realness of your videos. I'm drowning right now I just needed to hear another mum just share how they manage. My girls are 3yrs apart...youngest is now 12months and oldest 4yrs so I can relate to what you are talking about
I am so glad I came across your channel. I am a mom of a preschooler and a 9month old. I was so patient with my 1st daughter but now that I have 2, I feel like I needed a new approach. So glad to learn about the Montessori style discipline. I had so much mom guilt- worrying on top post partum. Watching your videos are so encouraging. your parenting style is AMAZIN!!!
who would give this a thumbs down?
🤷🏼♀️🤣
Some people cannot be happy for successful, intelligent people...they live sad selfish lives.
Another favourite youtube mom - Emily Norris says, about the thumbs down, that it's like giving kids food and they say no without even trying it :D :D
You literally just summed up my entire motherhood in one video lol 😂 so glad listen to another mom that I can relate to
Thanks for sharing this. I think this is one of the most under-talked about things of parenting. Mine are 18 months apart (2 and 3.5). Its helped to let them have 45 minutes of screen time after getting ready in the morning so I can get stuff done and having a designated "quiet time" in the afternoon while the youngest is napping. I listened to a pod cast where a mom would put her children in different rooms to play and set a timer. She'd say, "I'm going to hide, come find me when the timer goes off." Eventually she worked up to 30 minutes of alone time.
I’m so glad I came across this video , I’m thinking about having another and had the same worries
Its refreshing to hear those mom guilt feelings & thoughts of wondering if you can love another child as much as your first goes away after you have your 2nd. My daughter will be 2 in May and we are starting to talk about having a 2nd and i want her to have a sibling but im so scared of my first feeling left out or something.
We have similar experiences as far as having kids. I had mayson in june, got pregnant and had an early miscarriage when he was 14 months, then got pregnant with my second who was born 5 days before mayson turned 2. And I felt SO GUILTY having another baby. I was scared of him not being able to adjust. The beginning was a little odd, he wasn't really interested, but now they are so close and I love it. The first 6-8 weeks were a blur. And having my second I've realized how much I took maysons independence for granted!
I only have 1 kid but I’ve been taking him to the bathroom all along 🤷🏼♀️ either in a carrier or sometimes in one of my arms!
♥️♥️♥️
I agree 100%. I have two little girls 4 years and 4 months and you just described my life right now xD especially the bathroom I feel like it's a parade everytime I go
Ashley Powell I’m a single mom is 4yo, 2.5yo, and 2mo, I totally feel the mom’s guilt 😀
I literally just found out this morning that I’m expecting baby 2! We have a 21 month old so she will be about 2.5 when the new baby (ahhhh!) gets here in December. I’m researching this again now that it’s real!
I had those exact mum guilt feelings too 🙈 going from baby 2-3 is an easier process 😙
When I go to the bathroom I leave the door open but my toddler knows I’d rather him stay outside the door and he does most of the time. Recently my almost 1 year old has become mobile and he doesn’t respect the threshold lol
My son is almost 2 years old and still wants to be in the bathroom with me, eventhough i'm doing nr2. When he was younger he'd want to sit on my lap ._. Guess it's just one of those things that becomes normal!
It's because your sitting still, if you're not moving around they think that's the time they can have you to themselves. My kid climbs on to of me the minute I sit down even if it's just to tie my shoes.
Do you feel like your overall stress levels have doubled? I am worried that I’ll wear myself thin with two but then on the other hand I can’t picture not having two...😩
Have you ever think about having another baby?
oh my goodness i actually cried watching this video! i will have a 2 year old toddler and a newborn baby in the summer and all i can think about is how is my little girl going to cope, will she be really upset, bored, jealous? Shes going to have to move into her own room which neither of us wants so im dreading that! especially as shes a terrible sleeper. All these worries in my head i havent had time to actually be excited about having another baby
I have twins babies and I put them on a blanket on the bathroom floor while I poop and shower. Poor things watch me poop.
😂😂😂😂👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
You gotta do what you gotta do! Lol I put mine in the boppy when he was tiny while I did all that now he’s walking and exploring and getting into everything and it’s sooooo much harder I dont wanna imagine when my next gets here in April.
I put mine in his little rocking chair and he just watched me poop and happily played with the toys hanging over him. Hubby tried the same thing once and told me baby started crying before he could even start his business. 🤣
Ashley, just so you know, you and your channel are incredible: I L.O.V.E. every single video you have ever made - how is that possible? You geniuuuuus!!!! ;-) Also, on a different note, this video in particular just made me wish that we were actual friends and I didn´t live across the Atlantic so that we could literally have coffee and chat every other day! haha Much love to you guys!
I’m only 16 and I don’t plan on having children for a long time but I love watching parenting videos especially your Montessori ones 😂
Love the Danish way of parenting book. Particularly how instead of 'terrible twos' they see it as the boundary testing and independence age. So much more positive.
100% agree!
Pregnant and literally everything you covered has been circling my head especially the “mom guilt”!! Thank you so much for being such a great mama!!
I know it's not the same but I'm experiencing 'mom guilt' about my first baby because I don't want my cats to feel neglected. These cats have been my babies throughout my years of infertility and we are all close. I would hate for them to feel pushed out. 😿
I think every mom goes through it when going from one to two. It’s such a mental struggle. Luckily as Ashley mentioned, it’s totally unwarranted in the end. Love is so amazing.
Yeah my biggest fear is exactly what she said, “am i going to love this baby as much as I do my son”? “Am I going to start neglecting my toddler now?” It sucks but Ashley is great at reassuring!:)
Same
Dividing love...does not happen...even with our 7th😂. What I have found for me was that going from 1 to 2 children and from 4 to 5 have been the hardest transitions. I have found that as long as I keep a proper schedule/ more of a routine and make sure I spend 1 on 1 time every day with each of my children the mom guilt stays at bay. As we have had our younger children our olders have been so excited to have "their" babies....at our home we fight over who's turn it is to play with the little loves...so never worry about adding to your home in this way, but you will definitely know when you home is complete.
I'm pregnant with my first and now I'm just going to cherish every moment I can go to the bathroom by myself.
Madison Kalo naps too cherish the naps cause the first few months are rough!
YES. GET ALL THE SLEEP 😭
For the picky eating, I have a "snack shelf" in both the fridge and cupboard stocked with healthy choices so that if there is a refusal to eat they can go choose an alternative...which I rotate Montessori style too...
We are thinking about having baby #2 and I really appreciate your perspective! Thanks for sharing!
Did you try ? lol 😂
It felt so good to hear another human speak my thoughts. I've been having anxiety attacks over having another... and about not. You're the best hun! Thank you for your light!
Everything you said is so true and then some...also I can’t remember the last time I went to the bathroom by myself unless my kids were in bed 😂...even my dogs join the party 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏼♀️
Hi Ashley! What a great video, I feel like I always learn so much from you. Research for the future, is how I like to think of it. I'm sorry people can be so judgy - you're obviously an amazing mother, dedicated to raising amazing kids. Also, recently saw your instagram story of Mia's new set up in the play room. Will you be making a full video on that? Please say yes! :D
Such an interesting video. I’m not a mother, but I feel like the complexities and mental/emotional/physical nuances of having another child is often overlooked. Lovely video 🖤🖤🖤
“I often find myself putting my own needs on the back burner.” I feel like this is motherhood in its entirety summed up in one sentence! But you wouldn’t have it any other way ❤️
We’ve just welcomed our second child with an exact 2 year age gap. So this is so helpful for me, even helped give me an insight to how things might be in the future! Thanks for your honesty ☺️ Your doing great 🥳 x
I am a first time mom, my daughter is about to be 4 months. Your videos have completely changed my views on parenting and I've used many of your Montessori and parenting methods, they have saved my life!
I feel alot more confident with my baby! You seriously are inspired and you are SO cool! Thank you for your videos 🙏🏻❤
I am so grateful for this video. Me and my husband decided we are ready for another one, and that alone triggered mom guilt!
Yepppp I take naps all the time when I can with my crazy 19m old. I want to enjoy my summer and then I think we’re gonna try for baby #2. We’re still debating 😂 cause yeah the only free time we get is when this girl is sleeping. We don’t rely on babysitters or family for much help. She’s only spent the night out at grandmas once and it’s when we had our housewarming party 😂
Love this! It’s be interesting to do another real talk now that you have a preschooler and toddler. Or is it mostly the same?
"its a pretty good skill"
lol LOVE it.... actually it's an AMAZING skill!!!
And don't be afraid to take a nap instead of editing for us....WE'LL all still be here to support you when you wake up 😘
I had a hard time eating as a daycare provider, but if you can prepare everyone’s plate at the same time with Kylie either helping or busy at the table. OR plate up at the table. Say a prayer or say something you’re thankful for about your day, then eat together as a family (or in my case group) and enjoy your girls! If you can work out an after lunch nap for Mia and clean up with Kylie before an easy rest time for her if she can 😊 just an idea, but I love this because I need the structure of a schedule with 9 kids from 3m-7y 😳
Thank you so much for making this video! First of all, I recently found your channel and am learning SO much from you and am now taking small steps to make our house more Montessori-friendly for my 2 year old. I didn’t even really know what Montessori was before finding you, so thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and your passion with us. You’re doing a really important thing.
Second, I don’t even do this but it got me thinking as you were talking about your stuffed backpack- what if you had a little bin in your car that always had extra changes of clothes, diapers, snacks, etc so you didn’t have to always worry about having it on you? I know some things you NEED in your bag, but things like clothes or an emergency stash of non-perishable snacks so it was just one less thing to worry about forgetting to pack. Just a thought, and advice I might actually use myself 🤪
Thanks again for all you do. We’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time ❤️
I’m currently 18 weeks pregnant and I wish to have two kids eventually, so thank you for making this video, Ashley! My sister and I are 15 months apart and that is seriously the best thing that has ever happened in my life, having her! So I’m hoping to manage to have two kids who are also as close apart, just because I don’t remember a life without my sis and I never could imagine one. ❤️
I don't have any kiddos of my own yet, but I totally get the whole "not being allowed to go to the bathroom in private" thing! Being the oldest of 4 sisters and having lots of younger cousins to babysit, I feel like I've spent half my life being followed to the bathroom. Even now, when I look after my 3 yr old god-daughter for the day, she follows me... The struggle is real folks! 😂
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I started to follow you when my son was 6 months old and your video about BLW was my favorite)) now he is 1,4 so me and my husband started to think, hm, maybe we should think about the next step and trying to have one more baby)) and your video makes me think that no matter how difficult things can be, it's worth it! Sending you love and hugs after the 11th of may from Kazakhstan and thank you again!
Can you explain a little bit more about why you wanted to have 2 kids versus 3 or 4? My husband and I are weighing the pros and cons of having 2 versus 3, and I'd like to know why you found being one of 3 (and then 4) to be too much. Thanks so much!
I only have 1 kid and I never go to the bathroom alone. If I dare to lock my toddler outside the bathroom door, she would kick the door and cry so load like I abandoned her. Even daddy offered her company, she would say no daddy, mommy mommy mommy....
Oh my lanta! This was so helpful! Thank you!! I’m due next month w our second baby. Our first will be exactly 2.5 years old. The very first topic you touched on, really hit home- I started to tear up (probably my hormones) but I have that fear- I love my first so much and to hear how your heart just opened up more for Mia was so validating. Love your videos! Thanks Ashley!
Ugh... dreading the lack of sleep thing tho 😭
I have a three year old and a seven month old. They both fell asleep during the day this week. And I got an hour and a half nap. Let me tell you...that has only happened maybe 3 times this past 7 months. Glorious!!
Coming back over half a day later to finish this video and your description of the butt wiping and nursing situation is soooo true to having two kids 😆
You are an amazing mom. You are such an inspiration to me, a mom of 2 (just had my second in Nov 2019) & my toddler is 32 months. We have had such a difficult time transitioning with my older one since the baby came. I look at your day in the life vlog with awe. Thank you for all your tips and I look forward to your videos every week.
Thank you for this video. It was so helpful!
I 100% understand where you are coming from. I have a 19month old daughter and a 3month old son. Every single point I was like yep, oh yeah, I feel you haha your doing amazing! Xo
Thank you so much for making this video! I recently found your channel, I'm learning SO much from you and how to incorporate the Montessori approach into our home (I´m watching pretty much every single video haha). Also, we’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.
I do have a "small" question, due to we moved to a different city and don´t have any help (also because of covid...) How do you manage not having any help (but Mike)?? Or do you have a nanny when you have a date night with Mike?
Wow, I have one 2 year old and it's never been slow down here... Lucky you!
Love this! When you said you have a skill of nursing & wiping 🧻 😂 story of my life. I too have a 3 (daughter) & 1 (son) year old. Two I’d definitely time consuming but worth while. From one momma to another wishing you & your family lots of happiness & love & also to mommas doing more self care 🥳
Thank you for this video, I needed it so badly - I’m expecting my second baby and there will be also 2 years gap beetween them. Did you compare your emotions and love towards them during pregnancy as a part of the mom guilt? You mentioned that the great love for Mia - as strong as for Kylie - appeared after giving birth. I feel guilty for not having the same emotions for both of my children even though it’s the beginning of second trimester 😕
Hi, Ashley
I’m expecting a baby in Aug while my first child will be 2y6m.
I’m not sure how did you handling 2 children, like different sleeping schedule and daily routine …
Could u pls share some of your tips or advice with me, that will be much appreciated ❤️
What kind of videos are these people watching?! 🤣😂 "When does she go to the bathroom!? I'm not seeing toilets and sinks! Its fake!"
I really needed to watch this. I'm 2 months pregnant with my second child (constantly sick and tired) and my daughter is 11 months! I've been going through the "mom guilt". Thank you for this honest video. We all need "real talk" with more mamas more than we think!
This was helpful, thank you. Especially going into details of how to run errands and wipe a butt while nursing 😂.
I was literally just looking for this video and it auto played from a different one of your videos! And I’m having mommy guilt because my 5 year old is sharing a room with his baby brother!
My kids are April 2017 and June 2019 and so much of what you said is exactly how I feel. My Son gave up naps as well but he does 1h of quiet time during my daughter's afternoon nap. I don't know if that would work for you but it is the much needed break in our day for everyone
My daughter is 3 and has autism and we are thinking of trying for our second and it’s super scary!!! Mom guilt is way too real!
Thank you so much for this! I have a toddler and due in 24 weeks with our second. This video is very helpful
Aahh finally watching this again now im at 7 months just 2 months nearly left until the baby arrives and im starting to stress out about preparing the environment and preparing my toddler. I can already feel how exhausted i will be. Home education is a jour ey i am planning on starting properly but i think that will happen after the baby is settled a bit and i have more independence in driving at my own pace. Ahahha the mess is something i am getting used to now taht our cluttered environment is a point of interest for the exploration of my toddler. She's never really interacted with all the clutter i guess because it was overwhelming but is really keen on climbing up and getting into everything trying to use everything or drop it and hear what sound it makes or break it. I am running out of ideas to deal with the desire to explore these sensory experiences but unable to take control of the environment. 😩
Hahah the testing limits stage is so strong right now and i am just barely hanging on but cannot imgine this with a newborn. We have had days pretending that 'teddie' is baby and i feed him whilst playing with her or he is beside us on his mat looking at a mobile or looking at us whilst we play and that i am holding him or have him in a wrap whilst we prepare and eat dinner.
Hi Ashley. Love your videos & content. My son is Mia's age. I'm conflicted as to whether a two year age gap or three is ideal . Please share your view. Thank you .
At three years old, a child will definitely be a little bit more capable of independence from the very beginning, which would probably make things a little easier for you. Then again, at two, Kylie wasn’t quite yet into the jealousy stage, that was only a more recent development. So it made the initial time of having a new baby in the house easier for her to manage. At three, I think the jealousy would be in full swing right from day one. 🤷🏼♀️ But it also depends on your child’s temperament. So there really is no right answer to this.
Thank you for taking your time to address my query. I really appreciate it. Sending love & blessings to Kylie & Miya😍
i have a 3 year old and 3 month old. there is no jealousy towards the baby. and there are moments where she plays independently. but she still does not understand the concept of "give me a minute". if she wants me to play with her NOW, she means now, and i just can't do it like before. she also never had tantrums at 2....but now that she's 3 she has become soooo much more stubborn. so i think either way, it will be hard. but its not forever!
@@frizzzx86 Thank you for sharing your experience. Me and my sister were born 2 years 4 months apart. My mom says that I wud demand to be held & fed and wat not. She was pretty chilled baby , me on the other hand wud occasionally demand my mom's attention. I was put into a playschool for 4 hours everyday & it was a game changer. I loved the school. Mom & sis had their time together. Lol that was 29 years ago. Hope it helps. Good luck to you. Love to your daughter & baby 😍
OMG I'm just 3 minutes into the video and it already feels so relatable - I knew I wanted 2 kids but when my daugher was born, I started thinking "how am I going to split the love for her in two so I can love another child?"
"I never go to the bathroom on my own..." yep i can relate and i only have one child 🤣
Fun tip from German moms. I’m leaving in Germany, although I’m not a German. And something that I’m seeing a lot, is that the moms here as soon as the child is around 2yo the child carries his own backpack with their stuff.🤔 At first I was like ”wow, what a lazy mom”, but the more I see it, the more I get it and it’s actually brilliant. And kids actually love it, because they feeling older, more responsible and of course the backpacks are cute to die🥰. Of course we are talking for a small Kids size backpack. And I was able to see a few times what they are carrying inside and it was 1-2 diapers, a small water bottle, an extra bottom change (travel roll packing) and a travel size water wipes. German parenting style has many things in common with the Montessori parenting actually. They also get rid of the stroller as soon as possible. In my opinion, waaay to soon🤷🏻♀️ I’m constantly seeing tired toddlers everywhere because of the stroller😅
That’s AWESOME!!! I love this idea!!!!
Im 34 no kids hopping to ttc after fibroids are removed at the end of august
Thank you for being so honest!!! I'm a mom of three girls 2, 4, and 6 yrs old and I sooooo wish this video was out before I had kids. All the new mom's need to watch this! It's difficult and not always bunnies and rainbows, but that still doesn't mean it's not the best thing ever 😁❤️. Loved the whole video and I can Soo vouch for the sleep and bathroom parts of this video 💯 haha TAKE ALL THE NAPS!! ok 😂🤣. And you will never poop in peace again 🤣🤣❤️
I love your channel, but this video IS THE BEST 😂😍
Hahaha the bathroom i can't i appreciate the time i can use the toilet in peace.
Oh god feeding and potty time simultaneously aaaahhhhhhh😅😭
My baby is 4 months old and I'm wondering Is 2 under 2 too much? Anyone?
There’s so many parts of this video I have laughed and nodded my head at because life as a mom is so hectic! Wonderful, but also hectic! 😂❤️
Hi i'm a mom of 2 kids 21 month apart and i'm so agree with all you say, my younger is 6month old and it seems like i don't live anymore. I hope it will be better in a few month... (i'm french sorry for my poor english)
I'm usually not the commenting type of person when it comes to youtube videos although loving your content very much. But I just have to say it: THANK YOU for the toilet story!!! I felt so weird when I had to pee with my little daughter in the baby sling. And it's just something you don't ever have people talk about - I'm so happy it's not just me! Btw: she's a year old now and very interested in what I'm doing there, so I literally have to hold her back a bit because otherwise she would try to stick her head into the toilet to watch me wipe myself clean...
Also thank you so much for all your videos! They help me so much. Sometimes I just feel like, Hell, it would be so much easier (for the moment) to just say "no, and that's the end of it" or simply let her rage with some seemingly stupid whim. But then in a quiet moment I sit down and watch one of your videos and it motivates me so much to go on with what we started.
We are about to begin ttc-ing for baby number 2 and this video was very helpful and brought to mind things I wouldn't have thought about. Thank you for creating it 😁
It's great to hear your experience! And also a little bit scary! 🙈 My son is 2 years old now, and we decided we wanted to wait until he is older before looking for a second child... I'm still breastfeeding, the baby doesn't sleep through the night and is not "potty trained"... So you could imagine how hard it will be... But I've seen all your videos, you've done a really great job raising those beautiful girls... You truly are an inspiration for me to try to be a better parent to my kid... ❤️
Hi, me and my husband are in a similar situation.... How did you went through all breastfeed/potty training process?
cant imagine how youre managing with 2 kids. your must be entitled as supermom! my mom said she used to take me to washroom when I was a toddler, open the tap n let me play with running water.
but I wait for someone(hubby, in-laws, maid)to hold my baby while i m in washroom as i m scared of taking a curious baby to washroom.
yeah, dads must know the luxury of spending time in washroom.
I laughed so hard with the transparency of the last few minutes. Thank you for sharing! My daughter will be 2.5 when our baby comes in July, and I found this very helpful.
You are truly an amazing role model! Learning so much from you every time watching your videos! ♥️♥️♥️
Yes to everything you mention! I had a 3yo when baby was born and could have said alllll this myself! ❤️
I just LOVE your honesty, the way you talk and the valuable content you put out there for us, fellow busy mommas. Thank YOU for sacrifising your me time so that we can learn from you ❤
I’ve found all of the videos of yours that I’ve watched to be so informative and fun to watch! I’ve always loved watching family channels and I’m no where near even planning on having a kid yet 😅
Oh my gosh I really feel you with not being able to totally engage in the imaginative play...i really find myself struggling to do that with my 4 year old and entertain my 2 year old at the same time. Ive had to become pretty creative with play time lol
What a great video! This video was spot on. First and foremost, I want to say you are doing a fanatic job. I am a mom of 2 boys. They are 2 years and 6 days apart, to be exact. They are currently 5 and 3. It was extremely difficult I recall. Let me assure you that it does get easier as they get older. It gets easier in certain aspects but difficult in others such as : the older one has homework now (a lot ) and it’s difficult when your gone for 12 hours a day and have limited time with them. They will be arguing over the same toy a lot which will be a challenge. However .... with that being said, I am beyond happy with the decision of having them close in age bc they really are best friends. There bond truly melts my heart ❤️ . You’re doing a fantastic job Mama !
Best video ever! I nodded so often, laughed a lot because I recognize so many things (especially the nursing and wiping 😂) and even had tears in my eyes in the end. I have an almost 4 year old girl and 15 month old boy. It's absolutely exhausting and the most beautiful thing at the same time.
Coffee is amazing 😂😂
Thank you for all your content, it really helps
I have also two little girls and I feel with you on a lot of things. Especually: I miss naps
Thank you so much for your honesty! It makes me feel not so alone in the struggles of toddlerhood.
Loved your honesty. Amazed by how much you can do and the way you do it!
This case at the perfect time! We just found out our daughter will be a big sister at 2y2m 💗
Can u suggest some good books regarding parenting ? I don't have access to libraries here. It would be great if it's available Amazon
Hi there, she actually made a video of book recommendations, I think it was called Top 5 Books for Parents (or something like that). Hope that helps!
What’s it like to have two kiddos now?
Oh how I wish my son would chase after the shopping cart... He's a runner and I'm the chaser and terrified to have this second baby in a couple months, lol. I don't know how you do UA-cam on top of it all, I did the UA-cam thing for awhile, but it was too exhausting for me. I still make videos for fun now and then though, lol, to capture the memories :)