Families are changing. Parents no longer have children close together and call it done. Often, parents will have a child or two when they are young and then later on, choose to have another one. Sometimes it is because of a separation from the older children’s parent, but it could be for numerous other reasons as well. It is a great thing, no matter what makes you choose to have a baby later in life, but at the same time, it can complicate an already busy life. For instance, bringing the baby to competitions where seating is often limited, can become quite interesting and frustrating.
Competition Complications
With most families having older children and younger ones, it does not come as a surprise that there are complications with all of the events that the older children may be a part of. There are soccer moms with a child on the field and one on their hip. There are cheerleader moms who have one cheerleader that they are proud of performing and one who not only requires their attention in the stands, but also requires nap times. Babies and toddlers are cumbersome. They require diaper bags and a place to lay their heads when the time comes. At these events, parents often discover that there is no room for their littlest family members and all that they are required to bring along for their comfort. It is made even worse when mommy and daddy have to hold a squirming toddler who is cranky and ready for a nap on their lap because of the limited seating options. Luckily, there are a few possible solutions to this problem.
Easy Options for Wiggly Toddlers
At most cheer competitions and other events, you have the ability to get up and move around some. Toddlers though, may take it to the extreme and want to step on the toes of everyone nearby. For that reason, you should consider bringing a small toy for them to play with, but then you have to worry that it will make the diaper bag that much fuller. Instead, consider putting a few diapers in your purse along with a few baby wipes that are in a Ziploc. This will lessen the bulk of your diaper bag and make it possible for you to also take along a snack bag and a small toy. You may also want to consider checking out the hipseat baby carrier here since you can use it to hold your little wiggler while you keep up with the toys and have free hands to clap for your favorite athlete on the field. If you have a smaller baby, you can worry less about the snacks and toys, but an infant carrier will still give you free hands to do other things, and it will keep the pressure off your back.
Continue to Be Supportive
The days of moms and dads staying home with a new baby are over. Parents who have older children cannot have the luxury of staying home. To attempt to avoid competitions and stuff, your older child may think that you are no longer happy about their achievements. This is very bad. They need your attention from the stands as much as the new baby needs your attention in the stands. Do what you have to do to be there for them, even if it doesn’t mean you are comfortable at all times. They will love you for it.