First born vs. second born: Things I did differently the second time

<p>I had always believed that having a sibling is extremely important. But when my first born came into my life, that belief started to wither. I, no longer felt, we needed another child to make one happy family. My first born more than enriched every part of my life. But don’t know exactly what made me change my mind later. Was it the abortion that left me feeling guilty, or was it the happy sibling pictures my friends posted online? Here I am, 6 years and 10 months later with a little infant in my arms.<br></p><p>Well, this is not about my journey from a parent-to-one to a parent-to-two! This is about things that I did differently as a second-time parent:</p>

<p>Baby bump pictures, first smile, first yawn, first romper, first eye contact… These are a few things that first time parents document. But you will ease out with the second born. It’s not about loving your second one less but not feeling the desperate desire to record every single milestone- been there, done that!<br></p>

<p>With the first born, you want to do everything right. Not that you want to let go with your second born but somehow you don’t see your child as defenseless as your first one. You don’t fear germs as much—while you will dutifully sterilise bottles, soothers, you may not be too finicky about doing it all on your own (or under direct supervision). You want to let go and rely more on others to carry out some ‘very important’ tasks.<br></p>

<p>Twenty rompers in different colours and styles, fancy diaper bag, imported diapers and the most expensive anti-rash cream—this is how you prepare for your first born but your second born will most definitely have hand-me-downs from your first born or from your close friends. You may even throw their clothes to be washed along with your other laundry, which was a BIG no no the first-time round.<br></p>

<p>For my first born, I had bought a beautiful outfit to pose for the 'happy hospital picture'. But second time, it was different. I prepared my hospital bag a day in advance and actually, I'd just thrown in comfy night pants and tees.<br></p><p>PS: The above list is no indication that you love your second born less but a reflection of how moms are more stressed the first time. With their second born, they learn that it's okay to let go and make mistakes. It's more about enjoying the phase than being too worked up! Happy parenting!</p>