In caring for multiples, you have the added challenge of getting to know each infant’s needs and personality. Even in the NICU, your babies can show differences in their medical needs, preferences, how they respond to their surroundings and what they need from you. For instance, one baby might prefer a light touch, while the other prefers a firm hold. One baby might sleep calmly through sudden noises, while the other startles and cries. As you get to know your babies and their unique preferences, you can fit your responses to meet each child’s needs.
 
Getting to know each child as an individual can be especially challenging at first, because you may feel there is not enough of you to go around. You may feel torn between babies, not knowing who needs you more.

• Trust yourself to give each infant what he or she needs on any given day, or even hour by hour.
• If there is a day when you feel especially drawn to one of your babies, spend more time there, and encourage your partner or family member to focus on the other(s).
• Enlist the help of family members to spend time with your babies.
• Let yourself appreciate and rely on the attention given by your babies’ nurses. They are there to help you take care of your little ones.