Bringing home a new baby is magical, but let’s be real, it’s also messy. And if you’ve already got a toddler with you? Those first few weeks feel like you’re running a marathon on no sleep and cold coffee.
You’re still healing, trying to figure out the whole “how to take care of a newborn” thing, and meanwhile your toddler suddenly needs you every second. One minute they’re climbing on your lap while you’re nursing, the next they’re melting down because the baby got a blanket and they didn’t. It’s a lot.
But here’s the thing, you don’t have to do it perfectly. Nobody does. You will learn to manage everything with time and then things will go smoothly.
In this blog, we will discuss the signs of your toddler’s jealousy and some key tips to manage this time.
What to Expect in the First Few Weeks with a Newborn and Toddler
When you are blessed with two kids, your life changes. Here’s what usually happens:
- Sleep is gone – Newborns wake up every couple of hours. Toddlers? They wake up early and don’t care if you’re tired.
- Toddler emotions are big – Extra tantrums, clingy behavior, or just acting out. These are completely normal at this time.
- Your body is still recovering – You’re sore, tired, and emotional. Healing takes time.
- Schedules clash – One needs feeding every two hours. The other wants to build blocks and run around.
It is hard but you will learn to manage it with time and things will get easier.
Challenges you are facing:
Challenge | What It Looks Like | Quick Tip |
Toddler acting out | Extra tantrums, clinginess | Give him time, keep short intervals |
Sleep deprivation | Up every 2–3 hours | Nap when kids nap, take turns with partner |
Two different routines | Toddler’s energy vs. newborn’s needs | Keep a loose rhythm, not strict schedules |
Signs Your Toddler May Be Jealous of the New Baby
No matter how much you try to prepare your toddler for a new sibling, a little jealousy almost always shows a little. It’s not your fault, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong, it just means your kiddo is figuring out how life looks with the new baby around.
Here are some common ways jealousy shows up:
- Regression – Suddenly wanting a bottle or pacifier again, or “forgetting” how to use the potty.
- Clinginess – Needing to be carried all the time, especially when you’re holding the baby.
- Acting out- Anger, shouting suddenly and doing things to capture your attention.
- Aggression – Your toddler can even show aggression by throwing toys or trying to hit the baby.
How to handle it:
- Let them “help” with the baby (passing wipes, singing to the newborn).
- Celebrate small wins—“Thank you for being gentle with the baby.”
- Spend even 10 minutes of toddler-only time. It matters more than you think.
Remember: regression is normal. They’re just checking if they still have your love.
How to Manage Sleep with a Newborn and Toddler
But there are ways to make it easier:
| Sleep Struggle | Why It Happens | Simple Fix |
| Toddler won’t nap | Routine changes | Keep nap/quiet time non-negotiable |
| Baby wakes toddler | Newborn cries at night | Use a white noise machine for toddler |
| No rest for mom | Back-to-back demands | Take shifts with partner, nap when kids nap |
Small things that have big impact
Here are some things that are quite beneficial during this crazy stage:- Keep your toddler’s bedtime routine the same: Try to follow the same bedtime routine for your routine as you had before the newborn. This makes them feel secure and they love the cuddles and stories of that time.
- Tag-team with your partner. You can ask your partner for help, he can spend time with the toddler while you handle the baby.
- Set the vibe at night. Make the lights dim, and give them time to sleep on time.
Postpartum Recovery While Caring for Two
Here’s the part moms rarely talk about, you’re healing while managing two kids. Your body is already tired, your hormones are still fluctuating and you cannot even breathe calmly.
But Here’s What Actually Helps
- Keep snacks and water close. Especially if you’re nursing, you’ll be surprised how hungry and thirsty you get.
- Give your toddler some “solo fun.” Puzzles, coloring books, or a simple toy rotation can buy you a few minutes to breathe (or nap).
- Accept the help. If someone is offering to help with food or laundry, accept the help. You won’t get anything for managing it all alone.
- Step outside, even briefly. Take a quick ten minute walk outside or just fresh air on the porch. This will make your mood fresh.
And remember this: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s survival. Your kids need a mom who isn’t running on fumes
Simple Tips to Make Life Easier
You don’t need to be a supermom. Sometimes, it’s about small hacks that keep the day flowing:
- Batch cook or prep simple freezer meals.
- Keep a “busy basket” of toys and snacks for your toddler during newborn feeds.
- Divide and conquer with your partner—one handles toddler bedtime, the other handles night feeds.
- Lower the bar. A clean-enough house is fine. A happy(ish) family matters more.
Keep things easy and avoid taking on more than you can handle. If you need assistance, you can ask your partner or family members for it. Establish a sleep regimen for them and look after your own well-being.
To make things easier, you can schedule your toddler’s sleep pattern alongside your infant and take turns caring for the baby with your partner.
You may notice clinginess, tantrums, regression (like requesting a bottle again), or even some aggression. It’s entirely normal and generally simply a phase.
Spend some time alone with both of them and let them bond together. Let your toddler help with little things in taking care of the baby and give some time to understand the changes.
Final Thoughts
This phase of life with a toddler and a newborn can be hard for you. But, trust me this time will pass and you will learn to manage things. Your toddler will have sweet moments with your newborn and they will bond really well. Till then, keep your toddler busy with interesting activities and let him help with baby care. Spend some alone time with both of them.
And remember, your toddler’s anger is not your fault at this point, it will get better. You are already doing great.
