Toy Arguments. In some houses this may not be a problem, if the parents just buy two of everything. But even if they do, there is likely to be one of the two that both children like better. It’s a different color, the wheel is broken on the other, etc. Deal with this like you would any other children fighting over a toy. Don’t favor one twin over the other, this will cause issues within the un-favored child. Whoever had it first could either be encouraged to share, or given a time limit. “You can play with this for 15 minutes, and then Suzie gets a turn for 15 minutes. Most likely, after each child has had her turn, they will have moved on to another toy.
Sibling Rivalry. In my opinion, sibling rivalry is probably tougher between twins than siblings of different ages. Twins tend to get compared against each other, and sometimes labeled by parents, teachers, friends, or strangers even. Jane might be labeled the outgoing and studious one, while Mary the athletic and pretty one. This will cause friction between the twins, and spark numerous fights at any given time. The best way to handle fights or an upset child as a result of labels or one not feeling “as good as the other” is to have each child sit down and name good things about the other. Both children will then hear good things about themselves, and is likely to feel better, and if nothing else it stops the fighting.
Twin Babies. Sitting for twin babies or toddlers is the toughest of all. Especially if neither of them can walk. If you don’t feel like you can, don’t try to carry both babies at once. It will not damage a baby permanently to cry in its crib for 2 more minutes while you carry the other one to the living room. Just be sure to secure both babies in their cribs, playpens, seats, etc before leaving them alone.
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