Love the Danish way of parenting book. Particularly how instead of 'terrible twos' they see it as the boundary testing and independence age. So much more positive.
I know it's not the same but I'm experiencing 'mom guilt' about my first baby because I don't want my cats to feel neglected. These cats have been my babies throughout my years of infertility and we are all close. I would hate for them to feel pushed out. 😿
I think every mom goes through it when going from one to two. It’s such a mental struggle. Luckily as Ashley mentioned, it’s totally unwarranted in the end. Love is so amazing.
Yeah my biggest fear is exactly what she said, “am i going to love this baby as much as I do my son”? “Am I going to start neglecting my toddler now?” It sucks but Ashley is great at reassuring!:)
“I often find myself putting my own needs on the back burner.” I feel like this is motherhood in its entirety summed up in one sentence! But you wouldn’t have it any other way ❤️
Ashley, just so you know, you and your channel are incredible: I L.O.V.E. every single video you have ever made - how is that possible? You geniuuuuus!!!! ;-) Also, on a different note, this video in particular just made me wish that we were actual friends and I didn´t live across the Atlantic so that we could literally have coffee and chat every other day! haha Much love to you guys!
For the picky eating, I have a "snack shelf" in both the fridge and cupboard stocked with healthy choices so that if there is a refusal to eat they can go choose an alternative...which I rotate Montessori style too...
Thank you for mentioning mum guilt. That is exactly how I feel now - like I'm betraying my daughter because I'm pregnant again... never knew anyone else feels the same way! I just love how open and honest you are. I guess it's not easy to remain authentic when you can be so easily judged... that's why I thank you even more ❤❤❤
Dividing love...does not happen...even with our 7th😂. What I have found for me was that going from 1 to 2 children and from 4 to 5 have been the hardest transitions. I have found that as long as I keep a proper schedule/ more of a routine and make sure I spend 1 on 1 time every day with each of my children the mom guilt stays at bay. As we have had our younger children our olders have been so excited to have "their" babies....at our home we fight over who's turn it is to play with the little loves...so never worry about adding to your home in this way, but you will definitely know when you home is complete.
You gotta do what you gotta do! Lol I put mine in the boppy when he was tiny while I did all that now he’s walking and exploring and getting into everything and it’s sooooo much harder I dont wanna imagine when my next gets here in April.
I put mine in his little rocking chair and he just watched me poop and happily played with the toys hanging over him. Hubby tried the same thing once and told me baby started crying before he could even start his business. 🤣
It felt so good to hear another human speak my thoughts. I've been having anxiety attacks over having another... and about not. You're the best hun! Thank you for your light!
I am a first time mom, my daughter is about to be 4 months. Your videos have completely changed my views on parenting and I've used many of your Montessori and parenting methods, they have saved my life! I feel alot more confident with my baby! You seriously are inspired and you are SO cool! Thank you for your videos 🙏🏻❤
I have a three year old and a seven month old. They both fell asleep during the day this week. And I got an hour and a half nap. Let me tell you...that has only happened maybe 3 times this past 7 months. Glorious!!
Coming back over half a day later to finish this video and your description of the butt wiping and nursing situation is soooo true to having two kids 😆
We’ve just welcomed our second child with an exact 2 year age gap. So this is so helpful for me, even helped give me an insight to how things might be in the future! Thanks for your honesty ☺️ Your doing great 🥳 x
Such an interesting video. I’m not a mother, but I feel like the complexities and mental/emotional/physical nuances of having another child is often overlooked. Lovely video 🖤🖤🖤
I really needed to watch this. I'm 2 months pregnant with my second child (constantly sick and tired) and my daughter is 11 months! I've been going through the "mom guilt". Thank you for this honest video. We all need "real talk" with more mamas more than we think!
"its a pretty good skill" lol LOVE it.... actually it's an AMAZING skill!!! And don't be afraid to take a nap instead of editing for us....WE'LL all still be here to support you when you wake up 😘
You are an amazing mom. You are such an inspiration to me, a mom of 2 (just had my second in Nov 2019) & my toddler is 32 months. We have had such a difficult time transitioning with my older one since the baby came. I look at your day in the life vlog with awe. Thank you for all your tips and I look forward to your videos every week.
I’m currently 18 weeks pregnant and I wish to have two kids eventually, so thank you for making this video, Ashley! My sister and I are 15 months apart and that is seriously the best thing that has ever happened in my life, having her! So I’m hoping to manage to have two kids who are also as close apart, just because I don’t remember a life without my sis and I never could imagine one. ❤️
Everything you said is so true and then some...also I can’t remember the last time I went to the bathroom by myself unless my kids were in bed 😂...even my dogs join the party 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏼♀️
I stumbled on your channel and now I'm hooked. Thank you for your frankness and realness of your videos. I'm drowning right now I just needed to hear another mum just share how they manage. My girls are 3yrs apart...youngest is now 12months and oldest 4yrs so I can relate to what you are talking about
I love this video Ashley! I’m 12 weeks pregnant with my second (my toddler is 21mo) and this video is such a relief honestly. My biggest worries are about loving my second as much as my first and my toddler not getting the same amount of attention she does now. I’m doing everything I can to prepare but I love the realness of this video ❤️
I am so glad I came across your channel. I am a mom of a preschooler and a 9month old. I was so patient with my 1st daughter but now that I have 2, I feel like I needed a new approach. So glad to learn about the Montessori style discipline. I had so much mom guilt- worrying on top post partum. Watching your videos are so encouraging. your parenting style is AMAZIN!!!
Best video ever! I nodded so often, laughed a lot because I recognize so many things (especially the nursing and wiping 😂) and even had tears in my eyes in the end. I have an almost 4 year old girl and 15 month old boy. It's absolutely exhausting and the most beautiful thing at the same time.
I definitely had mom guilt. My boys are two years apart too. Leonidas, my second, was colicky so it was really hard but honesty now that they're 2 and 4 it's easier than having one kid. They love playing together.
Thanks SO much for this video! I am 37weeks pregnant and have 3 years old boy, working on startup... I feel lately beeing disconnected from my older one and being nervous and unpatient, worrying all the time how I am going to do this.. this calmed me down, I know we will do this together ❤️
I just LOVE your honesty, the way you talk and the valuable content you put out there for us, fellow busy mommas. Thank YOU for sacrifising your me time so that we can learn from you ❤
Oh my lanta! This was so helpful! Thank you!! I’m due next month w our second baby. Our first will be exactly 2.5 years old. The very first topic you touched on, really hit home- I started to tear up (probably my hormones) but I have that fear- I love my first so much and to hear how your heart just opened up more for Mia was so validating. Love your videos! Thanks Ashley! Ugh... dreading the lack of sleep thing tho 😭
Love this! When you said you have a skill of nursing & wiping 🧻 😂 story of my life. I too have a 3 (daughter) & 1 (son) year old. Two I’d definitely time consuming but worth while. From one momma to another wishing you & your family lots of happiness & love & also to mommas doing more self care 🥳
Thanks for sharing this. I think this is one of the most under-talked about things of parenting. Mine are 18 months apart (2 and 3.5). Its helped to let them have 45 minutes of screen time after getting ready in the morning so I can get stuff done and having a designated "quiet time" in the afternoon while the youngest is napping. I listened to a pod cast where a mom would put her children in different rooms to play and set a timer. She'd say, "I'm going to hide, come find me when the timer goes off." Eventually she worked up to 30 minutes of alone time.
I had a hard time eating as a daycare provider, but if you can prepare everyone’s plate at the same time with Kylie either helping or busy at the table. OR plate up at the table. Say a prayer or say something you’re thankful for about your day, then eat together as a family (or in my case group) and enjoy your girls! If you can work out an after lunch nap for Mia and clean up with Kylie before an easy rest time for her if she can 😊 just an idea, but I love this because I need the structure of a schedule with 9 kids from 3m-7y 😳
Hi Ashley! What a great video, I feel like I always learn so much from you. Research for the future, is how I like to think of it. I'm sorry people can be so judgy - you're obviously an amazing mother, dedicated to raising amazing kids. Also, recently saw your instagram story of Mia's new set up in the play room. Will you be making a full video on that? Please say yes! :D
We are about to begin ttc-ing for baby number 2 and this video was very helpful and brought to mind things I wouldn't have thought about. Thank you for creating it 😁
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I started to follow you when my son was 6 months old and your video about BLW was my favorite)) now he is 1,4 so me and my husband started to think, hm, maybe we should think about the next step and trying to have one more baby)) and your video makes me think that no matter how difficult things can be, it's worth it! Sending you love and hugs after the 11th of may from Kazakhstan and thank you again!
Thank you for your honesty. I glean from your wisdom. I currently have a 15 month old and we are planning on getting pregnant in the next several months. I am a planner at heart so readying my home my mind my heart is needed. The mom guilt thoughts at the beginning that you stated are exactly where I have been. Feeling guilty for wanting another but not taking away from my daughter. Your advice is much appreciate and gives me things to think about now. Thank you so much!!!
Thank you so much for making this video! First of all, I recently found your channel and am learning SO much from you and am now taking small steps to make our house more Montessori-friendly for my 2 year old. I didn’t even really know what Montessori was before finding you, so thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and your passion with us. You’re doing a really important thing. Second, I don’t even do this but it got me thinking as you were talking about your stuffed backpack- what if you had a little bin in your car that always had extra changes of clothes, diapers, snacks, etc so you didn’t have to always worry about having it on you? I know some things you NEED in your bag, but things like clothes or an emergency stash of non-perishable snacks so it was just one less thing to worry about forgetting to pack. Just a thought, and advice I might actually use myself 🤪 Thanks again for all you do. We’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time ❤️
I don't have any kiddos of my own yet, but I totally get the whole "not being allowed to go to the bathroom in private" thing! Being the oldest of 4 sisters and having lots of younger cousins to babysit, I feel like I've spent half my life being followed to the bathroom. Even now, when I look after my 3 yr old god-daughter for the day, she follows me... The struggle is real folks! 😂
I 100% understand where you are coming from. I have a 19month old daughter and a 3month old son. Every single point I was like yep, oh yeah, I feel you haha your doing amazing! Xo
I’m currently pregnant with my second (a bit of a surprise if I’m honest 🙈) so I have really been struggling with coming to grips with how everything is going to change once the baby comes... I can’t even tell you what a joy and an encouragement it has been to find your channel in the past week. I’m so thankful for your content and especially for this video! ❤️ Thank you for making such great and uplifting content!
I've been waiting for a Real Talk video, not that I need it, since I dont have children just yet, but your videos are so informative and entertaining. I never get bored watching them, and I'm sure once we have a baby I'll come back to these videos again.
I’ve found all of the videos of yours that I’ve watched to be so informative and fun to watch! I’ve always loved watching family channels and I’m no where near even planning on having a kid yet 😅
Ashley thx for all your videos. I’m a single mom of three kids, 4yo, 2.5yo and 2mo baby. I take care of them 100% time, it’s so hard for me to keep calm after all the works I have to do, and they make mess again but I’m learning from your video.
Hahahaha, I love this video! I have a 3yo and a 1yo. Soon to be 4 and 2. So true!! They start to play more and more together. It's pretty awesome. I wouldn't change a single thing. It's so worth it to see them grow together.
Im just going to keep the image of them both holding hands either in the car or on a walk and maybe even the possible 'i love you' to each other in my mind during the toughest days. Oooh my heart when Kylie and Mia were walking along on a treck before the vloggs stopped. I am happy that i had these past couple years to just have that Montessori lifestyle seep through into my parenting approach to solidify my hopes for our family when i felt so lost. Now it is great to just focus on my own toddler and our own home as we live our life using these techniques and having ther advice of the parenting group for all the gritty details as they come up.
I laughed so hard with the transparency of the last few minutes. Thank you for sharing! My daughter will be 2.5 when our baby comes in July, and I found this very helpful.
I started watching your video when I was pregnant with the first baby and now I’m thinking about second one. I just LOVE your video and I learn a lot. Especially the books you have recommended, I find them truly helpful. Thank you so much for making these videos;) -a mom from Korea.
What a great video! This video was spot on. First and foremost, I want to say you are doing a fanatic job. I am a mom of 2 boys. They are 2 years and 6 days apart, to be exact. They are currently 5 and 3. It was extremely difficult I recall. Let me assure you that it does get easier as they get older. It gets easier in certain aspects but difficult in others such as : the older one has homework now (a lot ) and it’s difficult when your gone for 12 hours a day and have limited time with them. They will be arguing over the same toy a lot which will be a challenge. However .... with that being said, I am beyond happy with the decision of having them close in age bc they really are best friends. There bond truly melts my heart ❤️ . You’re doing a fantastic job Mama !
We have similar experiences as far as having kids. I had mayson in june, got pregnant and had an early miscarriage when he was 14 months, then got pregnant with my second who was born 5 days before mayson turned 2. And I felt SO GUILTY having another baby. I was scared of him not being able to adjust. The beginning was a little odd, he wasn't really interested, but now they are so close and I love it. The first 6-8 weeks were a blur. And having my second I've realized how much I took maysons independence for granted!
This is fantastic. Also, the Danish Way of Parenting is such a great book! Been reading it, myself, lately. Side note: I would REALLY love a real talk about finding quality time with your spouse in general as a parent (especially for new parents, but really at all). When it's your primary love language, it really matters to find some way to get that need met.
My kids are April 2017 and June 2019 and so much of what you said is exactly how I feel. My Son gave up naps as well but he does 1h of quiet time during my daughter's afternoon nap. I don't know if that would work for you but it is the much needed break in our day for everyone
Love all your videos!!! So real!! Thanks for talking about real life. I’m a mom of Zoe who is turning 3 this March and I’m having my second baby this April so it was super useful hearing this video!!! Thanks so much for your information!!! And congrats for keeping going, I tried to have a TH-cam Chanel last year but it was to much for me!!! I’m trying to restart this year!!! Let’s see how it comes!! 💕
Its refreshing to hear those mom guilt feelings & thoughts of wondering if you can love another child as much as your first goes away after you have your 2nd. My daughter will be 2 in May and we are starting to talk about having a 2nd and i want her to have a sibling but im so scared of my first feeling left out or something.
Mine are teens now, but are 20 months apart. Trust me I know the struggle. The one wonderful tip I was given was about going to the movies. Another mother told me that she would bring the car seat for her toddler into the theater and buckle her in. This worked like a charm my 2 year old was comfortable and relaxed in his seat. The cup holders were perfect for holding a solo cup of popcorn. He wouldn't fuss and if he got sleepy would even nap comfortably during the movie. Best thing ever 😊
It's great to hear your experience! And also a little bit scary! 🙈 My son is 2 years old now, and we decided we wanted to wait until he is older before looking for a second child... I'm still breastfeeding, the baby doesn't sleep through the night and is not "potty trained"... So you could imagine how hard it will be... But I've seen all your videos, you've done a really great job raising those beautiful girls... You truly are an inspiration for me to try to be a better parent to my kid... ❤️
Fun tip from German moms. I’m leaving in Germany, although I’m not a German. And something that I’m seeing a lot, is that the moms here as soon as the child is around 2yo the child carries his own backpack with their stuff.🤔 At first I was like ”wow, what a lazy mom”, but the more I see it, the more I get it and it’s actually brilliant. And kids actually love it, because they feeling older, more responsible and of course the backpacks are cute to die🥰. Of course we are talking for a small Kids size backpack. And I was able to see a few times what they are carrying inside and it was 1-2 diapers, a small water bottle, an extra bottom change (travel roll packing) and a travel size water wipes. German parenting style has many things in common with the Montessori parenting actually. They also get rid of the stroller as soon as possible. In my opinion, waaay to soon🤷🏻♀️ I’m constantly seeing tired toddlers everywhere because of the stroller😅
I'm usually not the commenting type of person when it comes to youtube videos although loving your content very much. But I just have to say it: THANK YOU for the toilet story!!! I felt so weird when I had to pee with my little daughter in the baby sling. And it's just something you don't ever have people talk about - I'm so happy it's not just me! Btw: she's a year old now and very interested in what I'm doing there, so I literally have to hold her back a bit because otherwise she would try to stick her head into the toilet to watch me wipe myself clean... Also thank you so much for all your videos! They help me so much. Sometimes I just feel like, Hell, it would be so much easier (for the moment) to just say "no, and that's the end of it" or simply let her rage with some seemingly stupid whim. But then in a quiet moment I sit down and watch one of your videos and it motivates me so much to go on with what we started.
Doing all the time ''carrier + bathroom'' and only have one hehe! Exciting to have 2, I put your video in my special list to re-watch when baby number two will arrive! Thanks for your time doing thoses amazing video real talk/vlog/etc. :)
Oh my gosh I really feel you with not being able to totally engage in the imaginative play...i really find myself struggling to do that with my 4 year old and entertain my 2 year old at the same time. Ive had to become pretty creative with play time lol
With encouraging them to help tidy, what I do is use a rotation system for the toys. We only have a few of them available in the playroom, and the rest stored away. They have free access to what's in the playroom that day, but we only get something fresh out after they'd helped tidy - 'WHEN everything's back where it belongs THEN we can get out the marble run/Duplo/farm/playdough' etc etc I don't know that this would count as 'Montessori' but it works like an absolute charm. Obviously we do team work, I don't expect them to tackle it alone, but they know if they just sit back and watch me pick up their toys they're not getting anything new out.
I was literally just looking for this video and it auto played from a different one of your videos! And I’m having mommy guilt because my 5 year old is sharing a room with his baby brother!
I only have 1 kid and I never go to the bathroom alone. If I dare to lock my toddler outside the bathroom door, she would kick the door and cry so load like I abandoned her. Even daddy offered her company, she would say no daddy, mommy mommy mommy....
Wow~ I have been looking forward to seeing this real talk for a long time and I love this. I am trying to have another baby now hopefully it would happen soon. And yes this really looks like a lot more work than having one baby, but yes as you said I am sure it would worth it to see 2 kids grow up together. Love you aswesome and your little girls~
OMG I'm just 3 minutes into the video and it already feels so relatable - I knew I wanted 2 kids but when my daugher was born, I started thinking "how am I going to split the love for her in two so I can love another child?"
awwwww, so lovely and absolutely funny with the toilet part! me too with that one. i'm a book worm too and could only read when am out at work. and now following every book you read and recommended!
Also, one thing that works for us with diaper bag situation is we now have my toddler carry a backpack that has a change of clothes, snacks, and a drink in it and he loves it!
Thank you for being so honest!!! I'm a mom of three girls 2, 4, and 6 yrs old and I sooooo wish this video was out before I had kids. All the new mom's need to watch this! It's difficult and not always bunnies and rainbows, but that still doesn't mean it's not the best thing ever 😁❤️. Loved the whole video and I can Soo vouch for the sleep and bathroom parts of this video 💯 haha TAKE ALL THE NAPS!! ok 😂🤣. And you will never poop in peace again 🤣🤣❤️
Hi i'm a mom of 2 kids 21 month apart and i'm so agree with all you say, my younger is 6month old and it seems like i don't live anymore. I hope it will be better in a few month... (i'm french sorry for my poor english)
Great talk, and I related to a lot of it given that I am caring for a 4 month old and a 28 month old right now. Regarding the diaper bag situation, a few weeks before baby arrived, our toddler graduated to having his own little backpack (one of those cute little Skip Hop backpacks). His water and snacks go in there along with 2 full changes of clothes (the joys of potty training...), wipes/bib, a book and 1 or 2 small toys. Going out? Everything is already there (except the water), and my diaper bag isn't overflowing. So far, I am the one lugging his backpack around for him, but I am working on getting him to carry it himself soon. Granted, it is yet an extra bag to take along, but we all find it better to have his stuff separate and not have to empty half the diaper bag. : )
Thank you for this. I am expecting baby #2 and the mom guilt is so real. Also, my toddler was a poor napper as well, and there were multiple times when he was a baby that I wore the carrier into the bathroom because there was no way I was going to risk him waking lol thank you for your honesty. I feel so much more calm about my future haha
Thank you so much for making this video! I recently found your channel, I'm learning SO much from you and how to incorporate the Montessori approach into our home (I´m watching pretty much every single video haha). Also, we’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. I do have a "small" question, due to we moved to a different city and don´t have any help (also because of covid...) How do you manage not having any help (but Mike)?? Or do you have a nanny when you have a date night with Mike?
I view you as my *favorite* “TH-cam mom” 😉😃
🥰🥰🥰🥰 aww thank you!
Love the Danish way of parenting book. Particularly how instead of 'terrible twos' they see it as the boundary testing and independence age. So much more positive.
100% agree!
I'm pregnant with my first and now I'm just going to cherish every moment I can go to the bathroom by myself.
Madison Kalo naps too cherish the naps cause the first few months are rough!
YES. GET ALL THE SLEEP 😭
Pregnant and literally everything you covered has been circling my head especially the “mom guilt”!! Thank you so much for being such a great mama!!
I know it's not the same but I'm experiencing 'mom guilt' about my first baby because I don't want my cats to feel neglected. These cats have been my babies throughout my years of infertility and we are all close. I would hate for them to feel pushed out. 😿
I think every mom goes through it when going from one to two. It’s such a mental struggle. Luckily as Ashley mentioned, it’s totally unwarranted in the end. Love is so amazing.
Yeah my biggest fear is exactly what she said, “am i going to love this baby as much as I do my son”? “Am I going to start neglecting my toddler now?” It sucks but Ashley is great at reassuring!:)
Same
I’m only 16 and I don’t plan on having children for a long time but I love watching parenting videos especially your Montessori ones 😂
“I often find myself putting my own needs on the back burner.” I feel like this is motherhood in its entirety summed up in one sentence! But you wouldn’t have it any other way ❤️
Ashley, just so you know, you and your channel are incredible: I L.O.V.E. every single video you have ever made - how is that possible? You geniuuuuus!!!! ;-) Also, on a different note, this video in particular just made me wish that we were actual friends and I didn´t live across the Atlantic so that we could literally have coffee and chat every other day! haha Much love to you guys!
For the picky eating, I have a "snack shelf" in both the fridge and cupboard stocked with healthy choices so that if there is a refusal to eat they can go choose an alternative...which I rotate Montessori style too...
Thank you for mentioning mum guilt. That is exactly how I feel now - like I'm betraying my daughter because I'm pregnant again... never knew anyone else feels the same way!
I just love how open and honest you are. I guess it's not easy to remain authentic when you can be so easily judged... that's why I thank you even more ❤❤❤
Dividing love...does not happen...even with our 7th😂. What I have found for me was that going from 1 to 2 children and from 4 to 5 have been the hardest transitions. I have found that as long as I keep a proper schedule/ more of a routine and make sure I spend 1 on 1 time every day with each of my children the mom guilt stays at bay. As we have had our younger children our olders have been so excited to have "their" babies....at our home we fight over who's turn it is to play with the little loves...so never worry about adding to your home in this way, but you will definitely know when you home is complete.
I have twins babies and I put them on a blanket on the bathroom floor while I poop and shower. Poor things watch me poop.
😂😂😂😂👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
You gotta do what you gotta do! Lol I put mine in the boppy when he was tiny while I did all that now he’s walking and exploring and getting into everything and it’s sooooo much harder I dont wanna imagine when my next gets here in April.
I put mine in his little rocking chair and he just watched me poop and happily played with the toys hanging over him. Hubby tried the same thing once and told me baby started crying before he could even start his business. 🤣
It felt so good to hear another human speak my thoughts. I've been having anxiety attacks over having another... and about not. You're the best hun! Thank you for your light!
I am a first time mom, my daughter is about to be 4 months. Your videos have completely changed my views on parenting and I've used many of your Montessori and parenting methods, they have saved my life!
I feel alot more confident with my baby! You seriously are inspired and you are SO cool! Thank you for your videos 🙏🏻❤
I have a three year old and a seven month old. They both fell asleep during the day this week. And I got an hour and a half nap. Let me tell you...that has only happened maybe 3 times this past 7 months. Glorious!!
Coming back over half a day later to finish this video and your description of the butt wiping and nursing situation is soooo true to having two kids 😆
We are thinking about having baby #2 and I really appreciate your perspective! Thanks for sharing!
Did you try ? lol 😂
We’ve just welcomed our second child with an exact 2 year age gap. So this is so helpful for me, even helped give me an insight to how things might be in the future! Thanks for your honesty ☺️ Your doing great 🥳 x
Such an interesting video. I’m not a mother, but I feel like the complexities and mental/emotional/physical nuances of having another child is often overlooked. Lovely video 🖤🖤🖤
I really needed to watch this. I'm 2 months pregnant with my second child (constantly sick and tired) and my daughter is 11 months! I've been going through the "mom guilt". Thank you for this honest video. We all need "real talk" with more mamas more than we think!
"its a pretty good skill"
lol LOVE it.... actually it's an AMAZING skill!!!
And don't be afraid to take a nap instead of editing for us....WE'LL all still be here to support you when you wake up 😘
You are an amazing mom. You are such an inspiration to me, a mom of 2 (just had my second in Nov 2019) & my toddler is 32 months. We have had such a difficult time transitioning with my older one since the baby came. I look at your day in the life vlog with awe. Thank you for all your tips and I look forward to your videos every week.
I’m currently 18 weeks pregnant and I wish to have two kids eventually, so thank you for making this video, Ashley! My sister and I are 15 months apart and that is seriously the best thing that has ever happened in my life, having her! So I’m hoping to manage to have two kids who are also as close apart, just because I don’t remember a life without my sis and I never could imagine one. ❤️
Everything you said is so true and then some...also I can’t remember the last time I went to the bathroom by myself unless my kids were in bed 😂...even my dogs join the party 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏼♀️
You literally just summed up my entire motherhood in one video lol 😂 so glad listen to another mom that I can relate to
I am so grateful for this video. Me and my husband decided we are ready for another one, and that alone triggered mom guilt!
I stumbled on your channel and now I'm hooked. Thank you for your frankness and realness of your videos. I'm drowning right now I just needed to hear another mum just share how they manage. My girls are 3yrs apart...youngest is now 12months and oldest 4yrs so I can relate to what you are talking about
I love this video Ashley! I’m 12 weeks pregnant with my second (my toddler is 21mo) and this video is such a relief honestly. My biggest worries are about loving my second as much as my first and my toddler not getting the same amount of attention she does now. I’m doing everything I can to prepare but I love the realness of this video ❤️
who would give this a thumbs down?
🤷🏼♀️🤣
Some people cannot be happy for successful, intelligent people...they live sad selfish lives.
Another favourite youtube mom - Emily Norris says, about the thumbs down, that it's like giving kids food and they say no without even trying it :D :D
I am so glad I came across your channel. I am a mom of a preschooler and a 9month old. I was so patient with my 1st daughter but now that I have 2, I feel like I needed a new approach. So glad to learn about the Montessori style discipline. I had so much mom guilt- worrying on top post partum. Watching your videos are so encouraging. your parenting style is AMAZIN!!!
Best video ever! I nodded so often, laughed a lot because I recognize so many things (especially the nursing and wiping 😂) and even had tears in my eyes in the end. I have an almost 4 year old girl and 15 month old boy. It's absolutely exhausting and the most beautiful thing at the same time.
I just lost it at "I have learned simultaneously to wipe Kylee's butt while nursing Mia" hahahah! you are just the best!
I definitely had mom guilt. My boys are two years apart too. Leonidas, my second, was colicky so it was really hard but honesty now that they're 2 and 4 it's easier than having one kid. They love playing together.
Thank you so much for your honesty! It makes me feel not so alone in the struggles of toddlerhood.
Thanks SO much for this video! I am 37weeks pregnant and have 3 years old boy, working on startup... I feel lately beeing disconnected from my older one and being nervous and unpatient, worrying all the time how I am going to do this.. this calmed me down, I know we will do this together ❤️
I just LOVE your honesty, the way you talk and the valuable content you put out there for us, fellow busy mommas. Thank YOU for sacrifising your me time so that we can learn from you ❤
Oh my lanta! This was so helpful! Thank you!! I’m due next month w our second baby. Our first will be exactly 2.5 years old. The very first topic you touched on, really hit home- I started to tear up (probably my hormones) but I have that fear- I love my first so much and to hear how your heart just opened up more for Mia was so validating. Love your videos! Thanks Ashley!
Ugh... dreading the lack of sleep thing tho 😭
Love this! When you said you have a skill of nursing & wiping 🧻 😂 story of my life. I too have a 3 (daughter) & 1 (son) year old. Two I’d definitely time consuming but worth while. From one momma to another wishing you & your family lots of happiness & love & also to mommas doing more self care 🥳
Thanks for sharing this. I think this is one of the most under-talked about things of parenting. Mine are 18 months apart (2 and 3.5). Its helped to let them have 45 minutes of screen time after getting ready in the morning so I can get stuff done and having a designated "quiet time" in the afternoon while the youngest is napping. I listened to a pod cast where a mom would put her children in different rooms to play and set a timer. She'd say, "I'm going to hide, come find me when the timer goes off." Eventually she worked up to 30 minutes of alone time.
I had a hard time eating as a daycare provider, but if you can prepare everyone’s plate at the same time with Kylie either helping or busy at the table. OR plate up at the table. Say a prayer or say something you’re thankful for about your day, then eat together as a family (or in my case group) and enjoy your girls! If you can work out an after lunch nap for Mia and clean up with Kylie before an easy rest time for her if she can 😊 just an idea, but I love this because I need the structure of a schedule with 9 kids from 3m-7y 😳
Hi Ashley! What a great video, I feel like I always learn so much from you. Research for the future, is how I like to think of it. I'm sorry people can be so judgy - you're obviously an amazing mother, dedicated to raising amazing kids. Also, recently saw your instagram story of Mia's new set up in the play room. Will you be making a full video on that? Please say yes! :D
We are about to begin ttc-ing for baby number 2 and this video was very helpful and brought to mind things I wouldn't have thought about. Thank you for creating it 😁
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I started to follow you when my son was 6 months old and your video about BLW was my favorite)) now he is 1,4 so me and my husband started to think, hm, maybe we should think about the next step and trying to have one more baby)) and your video makes me think that no matter how difficult things can be, it's worth it! Sending you love and hugs after the 11th of may from Kazakhstan and thank you again!
Loved your honesty. Amazed by how much you can do and the way you do it!
Thank you for your honesty. I glean from your wisdom. I currently have a 15 month old and we are planning on getting pregnant in the next several months. I am a planner at heart so readying my home my mind my heart is needed. The mom guilt thoughts at the beginning that you stated are exactly where I have been. Feeling guilty for wanting another but not taking away from my daughter.
Your advice is much appreciate and gives me things to think about now. Thank you so much!!!
Thank you so much for making this video! First of all, I recently found your channel and am learning SO much from you and am now taking small steps to make our house more Montessori-friendly for my 2 year old. I didn’t even really know what Montessori was before finding you, so thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and your passion with us. You’re doing a really important thing.
Second, I don’t even do this but it got me thinking as you were talking about your stuffed backpack- what if you had a little bin in your car that always had extra changes of clothes, diapers, snacks, etc so you didn’t have to always worry about having it on you? I know some things you NEED in your bag, but things like clothes or an emergency stash of non-perishable snacks so it was just one less thing to worry about forgetting to pack. Just a thought, and advice I might actually use myself 🤪
Thanks again for all you do. We’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time ❤️
I don't have any kiddos of my own yet, but I totally get the whole "not being allowed to go to the bathroom in private" thing! Being the oldest of 4 sisters and having lots of younger cousins to babysit, I feel like I've spent half my life being followed to the bathroom. Even now, when I look after my 3 yr old god-daughter for the day, she follows me... The struggle is real folks! 😂
You are truly an amazing role model! Learning so much from you every time watching your videos! ♥️♥️♥️
I 100% understand where you are coming from. I have a 19month old daughter and a 3month old son. Every single point I was like yep, oh yeah, I feel you haha your doing amazing! Xo
Yes to everything you mention! I had a 3yo when baby was born and could have said alllll this myself! ❤️
There’s so many parts of this video I have laughed and nodded my head at because life as a mom is so hectic! Wonderful, but also hectic! 😂❤️
I’m currently pregnant with my second (a bit of a surprise if I’m honest 🙈) so I have really been struggling with coming to grips with how everything is going to change once the baby comes... I can’t even tell you what a joy and an encouragement it has been to find your channel in the past week. I’m so thankful for your content and especially for this video! ❤️ Thank you for making such great and uplifting content!
I've been waiting for a Real Talk video, not that I need it, since I dont have children just yet, but your videos are so informative and entertaining. I never get bored watching them, and I'm sure once we have a baby I'll come back to these videos again.
I love this. Being a classroom teacher is quite a challenge too, I am given to understand.
I’ve found all of the videos of yours that I’ve watched to be so informative and fun to watch! I’ve always loved watching family channels and I’m no where near even planning on having a kid yet 😅
Ashley thx for all your videos. I’m a single mom of three kids, 4yo, 2.5yo and 2mo baby. I take care of them 100% time, it’s so hard for me to keep calm after all the works I have to do, and they make mess again but I’m learning from your video.
I’m so glad I came across this video , I’m thinking about having another and had the same worries
As soon as you mentioned mom guilt, I subscribed. Thank youuuu for being so honest!
Hahahaha, I love this video! I have a 3yo and a 1yo. Soon to be 4 and 2. So true!!
They start to play more and more together. It's pretty awesome. I wouldn't change a single thing. It's so worth it to see them grow together.
Im just going to keep the image of them both holding hands either in the car or on a walk and maybe even the possible 'i love you' to each other in my mind during the toughest days. Oooh my heart when Kylie and Mia were walking along on a treck before the vloggs stopped. I am happy that i had these past couple years to just have that Montessori lifestyle seep through into my parenting approach to solidify my hopes for our family when i felt so lost. Now it is great to just focus on my own toddler and our own home as we live our life using these techniques and having ther advice of the parenting group for all the gritty details as they come up.
I laughed so hard with the transparency of the last few minutes. Thank you for sharing! My daughter will be 2.5 when our baby comes in July, and I found this very helpful.
I started watching your video when I was pregnant with the first baby and now I’m thinking about second one. I just LOVE your video and I learn a lot. Especially the books you have recommended, I find them truly helpful. Thank you so much for making these videos;) -a mom from Korea.
What a great video! This video was spot on. First and foremost, I want to say you are doing a fanatic job. I am a mom of 2 boys. They are 2 years and 6 days apart, to be exact. They are currently 5 and 3. It was extremely difficult I recall. Let me assure you that it does get easier as they get older. It gets easier in certain aspects but difficult in others such as : the older one has homework now (a lot ) and it’s difficult when your gone for 12 hours a day and have limited time with them. They will be arguing over the same toy a lot which will be a challenge. However .... with that being said, I am beyond happy with the decision of having them close in age bc they really are best friends. There bond truly melts my heart ❤️ . You’re doing a fantastic job Mama !
lol the thing about wiping kylie and feeding mia at the same time, dang, im proud of you! that's like multitasking pro level
We have similar experiences as far as having kids. I had mayson in june, got pregnant and had an early miscarriage when he was 14 months, then got pregnant with my second who was born 5 days before mayson turned 2. And I felt SO GUILTY having another baby. I was scared of him not being able to adjust. The beginning was a little odd, he wasn't really interested, but now they are so close and I love it. The first 6-8 weeks were a blur. And having my second I've realized how much I took maysons independence for granted!
Oh, thank you so much for this video 😭💙
I just brought my newborn home and he and his brother are 26 months apart. I really needed this video.
This is fantastic. Also, the Danish Way of Parenting is such a great book! Been reading it, myself, lately.
Side note: I would REALLY love a real talk about finding quality time with your spouse in general as a parent (especially for new parents, but really at all). When it's your primary love language, it really matters to find some way to get that need met.
My kids are April 2017 and June 2019 and so much of what you said is exactly how I feel. My Son gave up naps as well but he does 1h of quiet time during my daughter's afternoon nap. I don't know if that would work for you but it is the much needed break in our day for everyone
Love all your videos!!! So real!! Thanks for talking about real life. I’m a mom of Zoe who is turning 3 this March and I’m having my second baby this April so it was super useful hearing this video!!! Thanks so much for your information!!! And congrats for keeping going, I tried to have a TH-cam Chanel last year but it was to much for me!!! I’m trying to restart this year!!! Let’s see how it comes!! 💕
Wow, I have one 2 year old and it's never been slow down here... Lucky you!
Its refreshing to hear those mom guilt feelings & thoughts of wondering if you can love another child as much as your first goes away after you have your 2nd. My daughter will be 2 in May and we are starting to talk about having a 2nd and i want her to have a sibling but im so scared of my first feeling left out or something.
Love this! It’s be interesting to do another real talk now that you have a preschooler and toddler. Or is it mostly the same?
Mine are teens now, but are 20 months apart. Trust me I know the struggle. The one wonderful tip I was given was about going to the movies. Another mother told me that she would bring the car seat for her toddler into the theater and buckle her in. This worked like a charm my 2 year old was comfortable and relaxed in his seat. The cup holders were perfect for holding a solo cup of popcorn. He wouldn't fuss and if he got sleepy would even nap comfortably during the movie. Best thing ever 😊
It's great to hear your experience! And also a little bit scary! 🙈 My son is 2 years old now, and we decided we wanted to wait until he is older before looking for a second child... I'm still breastfeeding, the baby doesn't sleep through the night and is not "potty trained"... So you could imagine how hard it will be... But I've seen all your videos, you've done a really great job raising those beautiful girls... You truly are an inspiration for me to try to be a better parent to my kid... ❤️
Hi, me and my husband are in a similar situation.... How did you went through all breastfeed/potty training process?
Fun tip from German moms. I’m leaving in Germany, although I’m not a German. And something that I’m seeing a lot, is that the moms here as soon as the child is around 2yo the child carries his own backpack with their stuff.🤔 At first I was like ”wow, what a lazy mom”, but the more I see it, the more I get it and it’s actually brilliant. And kids actually love it, because they feeling older, more responsible and of course the backpacks are cute to die🥰. Of course we are talking for a small Kids size backpack. And I was able to see a few times what they are carrying inside and it was 1-2 diapers, a small water bottle, an extra bottom change (travel roll packing) and a travel size water wipes. German parenting style has many things in common with the Montessori parenting actually. They also get rid of the stroller as soon as possible. In my opinion, waaay to soon🤷🏻♀️ I’m constantly seeing tired toddlers everywhere because of the stroller😅
That’s AWESOME!!! I love this idea!!!!
I'm usually not the commenting type of person when it comes to youtube videos although loving your content very much. But I just have to say it: THANK YOU for the toilet story!!! I felt so weird when I had to pee with my little daughter in the baby sling. And it's just something you don't ever have people talk about - I'm so happy it's not just me! Btw: she's a year old now and very interested in what I'm doing there, so I literally have to hold her back a bit because otherwise she would try to stick her head into the toilet to watch me wipe myself clean...
Also thank you so much for all your videos! They help me so much. Sometimes I just feel like, Hell, it would be so much easier (for the moment) to just say "no, and that's the end of it" or simply let her rage with some seemingly stupid whim. But then in a quiet moment I sit down and watch one of your videos and it motivates me so much to go on with what we started.
Thank you so much for this! I have a toddler and due in 24 weeks with our second. This video is very helpful
Doing all the time ''carrier + bathroom'' and only have one hehe! Exciting to have 2, I put your video in my special list to re-watch when baby number two will arrive! Thanks for your time doing thoses amazing video real talk/vlog/etc. :)
Oh my gosh I really feel you with not being able to totally engage in the imaginative play...i really find myself struggling to do that with my 4 year old and entertain my 2 year old at the same time. Ive had to become pretty creative with play time lol
With encouraging them to help tidy, what I do is use a rotation system for the toys. We only have a few of them available in the playroom, and the rest stored away. They have free access to what's in the playroom that day, but we only get something fresh out after they'd helped tidy - 'WHEN everything's back where it belongs THEN we can get out the marble run/Duplo/farm/playdough' etc etc I don't know that this would count as 'Montessori' but it works like an absolute charm. Obviously we do team work, I don't expect them to tackle it alone, but they know if they just sit back and watch me pick up their toys they're not getting anything new out.
I'm always sooo grateful for your honesty!
I was literally just looking for this video and it auto played from a different one of your videos! And I’m having mommy guilt because my 5 year old is sharing a room with his baby brother!
I love u so much… u are such a knowledgeable, hilarious and relatable person. 💕
Thank you very much for all!
I only have 1 kid and I never go to the bathroom alone. If I dare to lock my toddler outside the bathroom door, she would kick the door and cry so load like I abandoned her. Even daddy offered her company, she would say no daddy, mommy mommy mommy....
Thank you so much for this!! 💗 you made me think, and giggle, and warmed my heart ❤
Watching your older stuff! This was so helpful as husband and I are ttc baby #2 soon!
Wow~ I have been looking forward to seeing this real talk for a long time and I love this. I am trying to have another baby now hopefully it would happen soon. And yes this really looks like a lot more work than having one baby, but yes as you said I am sure it would worth it to see 2 kids grow up together. Love you aswesome and your little girls~
OMG I'm just 3 minutes into the video and it already feels so relatable - I knew I wanted 2 kids but when my daugher was born, I started thinking "how am I going to split the love for her in two so I can love another child?"
I only have 1 kid but I’ve been taking him to the bathroom all along 🤷🏼♀️ either in a carrier or sometimes in one of my arms!
This case at the perfect time! We just found out our daughter will be a big sister at 2y2m 💗
Its feel good to know there is someone living like the same thing ✊🏼✊🏼✊🏼 super mom !!
awwwww, so lovely and absolutely funny with the toilet part! me too with that one. i'm a book worm too and could only read when am out at work. and now following every book you read and recommended!
This is my first video of yours and I think it’s ama zing! Thanks so much and lots of good tips in your real talk.
Also, one thing that works for us with diaper bag situation is we now have my toddler carry a backpack that has a change of clothes, snacks, and a drink in it and he loves it!
Thank you for being so honest!!! I'm a mom of three girls 2, 4, and 6 yrs old and I sooooo wish this video was out before I had kids. All the new mom's need to watch this! It's difficult and not always bunnies and rainbows, but that still doesn't mean it's not the best thing ever 😁❤️. Loved the whole video and I can Soo vouch for the sleep and bathroom parts of this video 💯 haha TAKE ALL THE NAPS!! ok 😂🤣. And you will never poop in peace again 🤣🤣❤️
I love your channel, but this video IS THE BEST 😂😍
Hi i'm a mom of 2 kids 21 month apart and i'm so agree with all you say, my younger is 6month old and it seems like i don't live anymore. I hope it will be better in a few month... (i'm french sorry for my poor english)
I have also two little girls and I feel with you on a lot of things. Especually: I miss naps
Great talk, and I related to a lot of it given that I am caring for a 4 month old and a 28 month old right now. Regarding the diaper bag situation, a few weeks before baby arrived, our toddler graduated to having his own little backpack (one of those cute little Skip Hop backpacks). His water and snacks go in there along with 2 full changes of clothes (the joys of potty training...), wipes/bib, a book and 1 or 2 small toys. Going out? Everything is already there (except the water), and my diaper bag isn't overflowing. So far, I am the one lugging his backpack around for him, but I am working on getting him to carry it himself soon. Granted, it is yet an extra bag to take along, but we all find it better to have his stuff separate and not have to empty half the diaper bag. : )
Thank you for this. I am expecting baby #2 and the mom guilt is so real. Also, my toddler was a poor napper as well, and there were multiple times when he was a baby that I wore the carrier into the bathroom because there was no way I was going to risk him waking lol thank you for your honesty. I feel so much more calm about my future haha
Thank you so much for making this video! I recently found your channel, I'm learning SO much from you and how to incorporate the Montessori approach into our home (I´m watching pretty much every single video haha). Also, we’re thinking about expanding our family soon so this video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.
I do have a "small" question, due to we moved to a different city and don´t have any help (also because of covid...) How do you manage not having any help (but Mike)?? Or do you have a nanny when you have a date night with Mike?