If you know that twins are on the way then plan, plan, and plan some more. Research as much as you can, read books and magazines and seek advice from as many sources as possible before the big arrival. The more organized you are beforehand the easier it will be when your twins arrive and turn your life upside-down. If your beautiful twins weren't expected then get ready for a rush of hands-on learning!

Here are some excellent tips to help you organize yourself:

Your twins need to grow up as individuals

Remember that individuality is important from the start with twins, especially identical twins. Some experts suggest that your twins have distinctive names, wear different clothes, and get given different toys to encourage this. Also try to remember to use their names instead of referring to them as "The Twins".

If you have a supportive family and a good network friends then that is wonderful. Caring for one baby is a tough enough task but twins can drain you more than you can imagine. Get extra support as soon as possible. If you are expecting to give birth to twins then seek out local clubs or online support forums. Being able to communicate with other parents of twins is tremendously helpful.

Often parents of twins report feeling more love towards one of their precious babies. Do not worry if you feel this way! This is because your twins have different personalities from the start. One might be more prone to crying, one may appear far more responsive to your voice, and one might be more moody. These feelings are normal and usually pass as time goes on and you get to know your babies better.

If you have identical twins you may need to use special identification methods to tell them apart. Wristbands are useful, as is colored clothing and bedding, or items with their names attached.

Use trial and error for a good feeding routine

Feeding time can be one of the most difficult and demanding aspects of having twin babies. Rest assured that in the beginning it will be clumsy and a bit of a muddle. Breast feeding is always best - for your twins' health, for saving time, and financially. Whether using breast milk or artificial, try to get as much advice on feeding twins as you can, and use trial and error to work out which way suits you and your babies best. Pumping, or expressing your breast milk for others to help can be a huge help. If you are fortunate enough to have someone who can take away some of the strain of sleepless nights then use them!

No matter how organized you are the first months with your twins, or even the first few years, will be a frantic blur of tiredness, chaos, and more tiredness. You may feel alone, isolated, depressed, and useless at times, but you will make it through and be proud that you did. Your social life will suffer, and you may find that you get less social calls than you are used to. Do not feel offended by this, instead try to remember that your friends are considering your precious time. You'll probably be needing sleep more than a friendly catch-up chat!

Do not forget Dad! He is not an optional extra, he is a vital part of raising his twins. Of course, if he isn't around there isn't much you can do about it, but if he is present then involve him, use him, and don't try to push him away thinking that you don't need him.

Healthier parents mean healthier twins

Look after yourself as much as you can. Remember, having a healthy and content Mom has an incredibly positive impact on your twins. Squeeze in as much sleep as you can, you are going to need to grab every minute of blissful rest that is available. You need lots of energy to take care of your double package of wonder! Twins do not always sleep at the same time, so sneaking in a nap for yourself whenever possible is recommended. Do not be afraid to doze off when visiting friends or family if the opportunity arises. Friends will understand completely, and they should also feel pleased that you are comfortable enough in their company to do this.

Finding a comfortable routine that suits all your family needs is vital. While you may find your household is in a state of messy chaos, life becomes much easier if it's organized chaos, and that means working out routines. Wash times, meal times, play times, whatever works best for you and your family. Do not think that you have to conform to what others count as a good routine. As you progress you will earn your own version of what is good.

Do not make the mistake of comparing your twins. They may be a double package of demanding wonder but they are separate personalities and should be treated as individuals. If one is developing faster than the other remember that all children progress at different speeds, even twins, whether fraternal or identical. If you have genuine concerns then do not hesitate to seek professional help, as with all aspects of caring for babies.

It may be a daunting, worrying, and stressful time for you, but with the right approach and by learning as you go you will soon get used to being a parent of twin babies. Think of yourself as fortunate to be able to experience and enjoy twice the pleasure.