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Are you going to a baby shower for someone expecting twins? Or do you need a great gift idea for someone who just had multiples? It's hard to know what to purchase when there are two (or more) babies involved! Here are some ideas based on feedback from parents of twins:

1. Swaddling blankets. Twins are often premature, which increases the chances for colic and fussiness. Studies show that infants who are swaddled sleep better, which leads to happier parents! Specially made swaddling blankets have Velcro or other fasteners that keep the blanket from becoming unwrapped. Some even come apart at the bottom to allow easy middle-of-the-night diaper changes without unwrapping the whole blanket.

2. A subscription to "TWINS Magazine." This publication has some great articles and tips about raising multiples. You can subscribe through their web site at www.twinsmagazine.com.

3. Diapers and/or formula. These are the two biggest expenses for parents of multiples, so they can never receive too much. But make sure you check with the parents first to see what brand they are using. They're not all the same.

4. Help! Offer to babysit the twins for a while, or even just take them for a stroller ride while the parents try to get some chores done or take a little nap. Bring meals over for the family or offer to wash their cars! Any sort of help is appreciated by parents of twins, and don't let them turn you down because they don't want to be an inconvenience. Insist on helping!

5. Books about raising twins. Parenting multiples is just not the same as parenting singletons. Parents of twins need books that are tailored to their unique parenting needs.

6. Podee Baby Feeding System: I haven't used this product personally, but I've had other parents tell me it is a great product. This self-feeding bottle system allows parents to feed both babies at the same time while holding only one.

7. A good breast pump. Pumping breast milk is almost a necessity for the mother who's breastfeeding twins. Without it, she'd be nursing around the clock! Make sure it's a dual pump so she can do both sides at once. And high quality is a must it's going to get lots of use!

8. Child-proofing products. Once twins are up and running, they're extremely mischievous! Get parents a set of products to child-proof the house, such as plug covers, drawer and door locks, etc. Trust me, they will get used!

9. Clothing. Surprisingly, I got very few items of clothing at my twins baby shower. Everyone focused on the supplies we needed, which was great, but clothes were badly needed, too! Little sleepers, onesies and outfits will always get used. Avoid the fancy, frilly dresses and suits, as twins usually outgrow them before there is much opportunity to use them.

10. Double stroller. This is an absolute must! There are many types available, so check with the parents regarding their preference. Personally, I liked the stroller where the seats were placed one behind the other. This made it easier to get down narrow store aisles! Other parents may prefer the side-by-side or a jogging model.

Learn more about this author, Susan Heim.
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