“Sleep? Never Heard of Her.”

A Realistic Look at Nighttime with Multiples

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Sleep when the baby sleeps”. Cute advice - if only it were that simple when you have multiple little night owls keeping you on your toes.

Let’s be honest - nights with multiples are a unique challenge. Sleep often feels like a distant memory or a rare luxury. But you’re not alone, and it’s OK if things don’t look picture-perfect in your household after dark. Here’s a realistic look at what nighttime often feels like for multiples parents, and some gentle tips to get you through those bleary-eyed days.

Why is nighttime so tough with multiples?

With one baby, you might wake up a few times. With two or more, that wake-up call doubles or triples, and sometimes happens all at once, sometimes in a staggering relay. Add in different feeding schedules, sleep preferences, or teething pains, and it’s no wonder nights can feel like a battlefield.

What does “sleep” even mean anymore?

For many multiples parents, sleep becomes a patchwork of short naps, quick dozes, and power naps on the couch. It’s rarely uninterrupted or restful, but every bit counts.

Instead of aiming for the perfect eight hours (which might be a dream for now), focus on catching small moments of rest wherever you can. Even 10-15 minutes can help.

It’s normal to feel exhausted

Exhaustion is part of the territory, and feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human, doing an incredible job under tough circumstances. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or lean on your support network. Whether it’s a partner, family, friends, or your Multiples Hutt Valley community, sharing the load can give you precious time to recharge.

Tips to make nighttime a bit easier

• Create a calm routine: A consistent bedtime routine can signal to your little ones that it’s time to wind down. Soft music, dim lights, and quiet stories help

• Prepare for night feeds: Have bottles or supplies ready and within reach to make night feeding quicker and smoother

• Consider safe co-sleeping or room sharing: This can reduce the need to move around so much at night (always follow safety guidelines!)

• Tag-team when possible: If you have a partner, take turns on night duties so you each get some longer stretches of rest

• Nap when you can: Don’t wait for bedtime, grab rest whenever the kids are sleeping, even if it’s just a short break

The bright side of nighttime (yes, there is one!)

As hard as nights can be, those quiet moments in the dark often bring unexpected closeness. Whether it’s the soft breathing of your babies or the way they look up at you with sleepy eyes, these moments build a bond that lasts a lifetime.

Nighttime with multiples might be tough, but you’re tougher. There’s no 'right' way to handle it, only what works for your family. Be kind to yourself and remember: this phase, as exhausting as it is, won’t last forever.