When I had my first son, Jack, breastfeeding came quite naturally. He latched straight away with no issues, and I assumed that would be the case with any future babies. Fast forward to baby number two – George – and I quickly realised that no two breastfeeding journeys are the same.
Breastfeeding second time around brought their own set of unique challenges.
I quickly realised that no two breastfeeding journeys are the same.
Getting The Latch Right Took A Lot of Work
George actually surprised me by latching beautifully in the hospital, all on his own. I thought I was in the clear. But once we got home, things changed. His latch became inconsistent and, honestly, uncomfortable. It took a solid month of trial and error – different breastfeeding positions, techniques, and a lot of patience – before we found what worked.
His latch became inconsistent and, honestly, uncomfortable.
Strangely enough, what worked best was starting with George positioned a little too high. From there, he’d naturally snuggle in, move his head side to side, and then latch on with ease. Once we figured that out, everything clicked into place. But it was a lesson in humility. I genuinely thought it would be easier this time around. It turns out every baby is different, and breastfeeding is never quite the same twice.
Juggling Life As A Mum of Two
The biggest challenge, though, wasn’t just the latch – it was juggling feeding a newborn while looking after a toddler. Honestly, it should count as an Olympic event. I’d be nursing George while Jack was climbing on me, asking for snacks or cuddles or just trying to figure out what was going on.
I’d be nursing George while Jack was climbing on me, asking for snacks or cuddles
I never wanted Jack to feel left out, so I made sure he could be part of those moments too. Sometimes he’d sit close and watch, and one day he even grabbed his Incredibles Jack Jack doll and pretended to feed him – it melted my heart.
A Reminder To Give Yourself Grace
One of the little things that helped? Snacks and drinks for Jack. Every time I knew George was about to feed, I’d set up a little “milk and biscuit time” for all of us. It turned into a lovely shared moment, rather than a juggling act.
Every time I knew George was about to feed, I’d set up a little “milk and biscuit time” for all of us.
Breastfeeding with two young kids has definitely been a challenge, but it’s also been a beautiful, bonding experience for all of us. If you’re on your second (or third!) breastfeeding journey, just know – it’s okay if it’s different. Give yourself grace, take your time, and find what works for this baby.
