Helpline call helps transform routine for family

For Susie and her husband Sean, parenting their twin boys, Ronnie and Roddy, was a whirlwind of constant activity. Like many parents of multiples, their days were filled with the fast pace of everyday tasks, and everything felt amplified when the boys dropped their daytime naps around two-and-a-half years old.

Without that midday break, Susie found herself transitioning from one task to the next, with little time for herself. The challenge wasn’t just the big moments, like getting out of the house, it was the constant, relentless change in routine, the never-ending “what’s next?” that came with managing two toddlers with their own personalities and rhythms.

This situation is a common one for parents of twins, where the constant juggling of tasks and managing two children’s needs without a pause can take a significant toll. Susie’s story reminds us that it’s okay to recognise when the load becomes too heavy and to reach out for support when things start to feel too overwhelming.

Reaching out for help

Eventually, Susie decided to contact Twins Trust’s helpline. She didn’t realize the extent of the pressure she had been carrying until she started talking to someone who understood. The simple act of sharing her struggles with a helpline volunteer allowed Susie to finally breathe and acknowledge the toll it was taking on her. “I had a good old cry,” Susie recalls, reflecting on how emotionally exhausting the days had become.

The decision to reach out was a pivotal moment for Susie. By speaking to someone who understood the specific challenges of raising twins, she felt less alone and more able to process her feelings. This highlights an important lesson for parents of multiples: reaching out for help and expressing what you’re going through can lighten the emotional burden, providing much-needed reassurance that you’re not alone in your struggles.

Small changes, big impact

The key piece of advice Susie received was a simple change to the family’s routine. The helpline volunteer, Cath, suggested introducing a daily “snuggle time” after lunch—a small adjustment, but one that would create a moment of calm in the family’s hectic day. This brief pause, just 20 minutes or so, allowed the family to reset together before continuing with the afternoon.

For Susie and Sean, it was a game-changer. They could sit down and eat lunch together, giving them a chance to relax, even if just for a moment. The twins, Ronnie and Roddy, also benefited from the predictable calm after lunch. They embraced this routine, which made the entire afternoon more manageable for the family. “One day the twins stopped on the sofa with blankets for 40 minutes,” Susie said. “It was a great breather for us all.” This seemingly small shift provided a much-needed break in their day and created a space for connection and rest.

This change teaches an important lesson: sometimes, a small adjustment in routine can make a huge difference in the flow of the day. It’s a reminder that taking time to pause, even for a few minutes, can help re-energize everyone in the family, making daily life feel more manageable.

Permission to slow down

Susie’s experience with Twins Trust highlights the importance of validation—hearing that it’s okay to slow down and take a break. Before speaking with Cath, Susie had felt guilty about needing time to reset. The idea of taking a pause in the middle of the day felt like a luxury she couldn’t afford. But after their conversation, Susie realised that a short break wasn’t a luxury—it was a necessity. It was something the entire family needed to function well and keep their emotional energy intact.

The reassurance Susie received gave her permission to slow down, which in turn had a profound impact on the family’s well-being. She added: “Somebody was saying that that was okay. That was amazing. It has made a huge difference.” This is an important takeaway: as parents, it’s easy to feel like we need to constantly be doing something or be on the go. But sometimes, taking a break is exactly what everyone needs to thrive.

The support Susie received from Twins Trust didn’t just provide practical advice—it gave her emotional clarity and relief.

Susie’s journey offers valuable lessons for parents of multiples. First, it’s essential to acknowledge when you need support. Speaking to someone who understands your experience can provide emotional relief and much-needed perspective. Second, even small changes in routine—like incorporating a short pause for snuggle time—can make a big impact on the day. Third, don’t underestimate the power of validation. Giving yourself permission to slow down can lead to greater well-being for the whole family. And finally, remember that it’s okay to ask for help, and sometimes, the simplest advice can lead to the most significant improvements in family life.