You receive a call from a new client, but she tells you she has twin boys. Oh wow, you are thinking. Two children of different ages would actually be more difficult to handle. You believe they will want to be playmates, enjoy the same activities, as well as have the same friends, so it will be easy to babysit them. Unfortunately, this probably won’t be the situation. Some twins are very compatible, playing together with toys without fighting and being little angels. But they probably won’t be any better that another set of children you are a babysitter for. Here are some issues that you may deal with, and advice for handling them.

Fussing about toys. In some homes, this might not be any trouble, if their parents just purchase double everything. But actually if they do, there is probably one out of the two that both children will prefer. The color is different, a broken wheel on one of them, etc. Handle this the same way you would deal with any other children arguing about a toy. Don’t treat one twin better than the other, as this will cause problems with the mistreated child. Give a time limit, or encourage the one who had it first to share. “Suzie gets a turn for 15 minutes when your 15 minutes are up.” Probably, after both children take their turn, they will have decided to play with another toy.

Sibling Rivalry. The rivalry between siblings is undeniable. I think sibling rivalry is usually worse between twins when compared to siblings who are not the same age. Twins usually are compared to each other, and occasionally parents, teachers, friends, or actually even strangers label them. Jane might be considered the sociable and intelligent one, but Mary might be considered the pretty one who excels in sports. This will be a problem for the twins, and cause fights at different times. The best thing to do about fights or a child that is upset because they are thought to be “not as good as another child” is to have children take a seat and say something good about each other. Both of the children will then listen to the nice things about themselves, and will probably feel better, and after everything, then the fight will be over.

Twins Babies. Watching twin babies or toddlers is harder than anything. Specifically if neither one is a walker. If you don’t think you can do this, don’t pick up both babies at the same time. It will not hurt a baby forever if they are crying in their crib for 2 minutes while you pick up the other one and take him to the living room. Just be certain that both babies are safe in their cribs, playpens, seats, or anywhere else before you let them stay by themselves.

While babysitting for twins, these are just some of the things you need to know. Don’t be afraid to call for help if you need it, and ask the parents lots of questions before they leave. As usual, judge each situation as best as you can.