How to Nurse Your Newborn When You Have a Toddler

While I was pregnant with Little Ox #2, I wondered how I was supposed to do things now that I would have TWO children instead of just one. (I still don’t know how I manage it some days!)

The thought of how I would nurse our newborn with a strong-willed two-year old running around (usually getting into things he shouldn’t be) stressed me out! Luckily, we were able to find something that worked for us – and something that might work for you too!

• Corner off a section of your house only for nursing/play time

• For us, we use my two-year old’s room (which is the best choice, if possible), but if they do not have their own room, a sectioned off area of the living room or play room will work well too.
• You can use a playard (something like this will work very well) or any room where your toddler can play unassisted without getting hurt
• Using the toddler’s room is best because it will allow them to feel and be more involved in the activity because you (and the new sibling) are in their turf.
• Put a nursing chair or rocker in the designated area

• Make sure it is comfortable enough to nurse baby in
• It can also be helpful if the chair is big enough to fit you, nursing baby, and toddler all at once. Our toddler likes to sit on my lap while I am nursing our newborn so a bigger chair can be useful at times.
• Here are some examples of great nursing chairs:

• This is like the one we have from Target
• This one also looks great
• Have a table or bin next to the rocker with nursing essentials

• A list of essentials for us include:

• Water
• Boppy or other nursing pillow
• Spit up rags – This Shop has adorable handmade ones
• Pacifier
• Have a Toy Bin designated for your toddler

• This bin of toys is only allowed to be played with while in the “Nursing Room/Corner”
• Put toys in here that your toddler can play with unassisted so that he/she does not get hurt and does not need your help
• Make a Magnetic Play Board to keep Toddler busy

• This board has been a wonderful activity for Little Ox #1 while I am nursing our new little one.
• You can use any oil drip pan or a magnetic board like This One from IKEA
• We also bought adorable magnets like THESE for him to use with it
• This has been one of my favorite purchases for our son – it keeps him busy the whole time I am nursing Little Ox #2