The Top Five Things Parents of Twins Should Avoid
1. Labeling your children as "the twins" or blending their names together (like "Rhonaannie" for Rhonda and Annie).
2. Comparing one to the other
3. The good twin/bad twin scenario
4. Limiting them to activities in which they both participate
5. Treating them differently from their siblings
The Top Five Things Twin Parents Should Do
1. Encourage both twins to cultivate their distinct personalities and interests
2. Spend special time with each twin separately
3. Acknowledge their individual accomplishments
4. Plan at least one visit to the Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio
5. Celebrate their unique and wondrous bond
Birthday Parties
One thing that has worked really well for us is having two birthday parties at the same time. Sam and Max, my twins, select their own party themes complete with invitations, decorations and cakes. Each twin invites four friends. Many of the children are actually friends to both twins however technically they are only invited to one party. (This means parents only have to buy one present, which I think they really appreciate.) The end result is that each twin feels special yet is in an environment where he can share this special event with the other. And all of the friends get to celebrate together. It has been a win-win situation for them since the toddler years.
