Cheryl Slane

[Guest guest]

Hi Cheryl,

If you are out there, I need to speak with you regarding how you are

handling certain activities w/your triplets. I am running into a

problem because Becca is able to do things that can't.

Specifically, I signed both kids up for a dance class (figured it

would be extra pt for ). Becca is doing well and enjoying it,

but can't stay still for 1 minute or follow any directions. I

am faced with having to pull both kids out because it is a small

studio and there is nothing for my nanny to do w/ while Becca is

in class. Since the class is only 45 minutes, she can't really take

anywhere either. The kids are currently 3 yrs and 8 mo.

If anyone else has dealt with this situation I would appreciate all

help.

Thanks,

Judith, Steve, (rss) and (non rss) 3 yr 8mo twins

[Guest guest]

Hi Judith,

Yes, I'm still out here. I don't post much, but I listen often.

First, it sounds like the problem you're having is due to having

multiples vs. 's RSS. I've had the same problem. When my kids

were 2-1/2 years old, I put them in a Mommy and me dance class (of

course, for me, it was Mommy and us). Anyway, was doing

fine, but and would just run around the room and the

teacher really wasn't doing anything to keep them focused and help

me out. So, 2 months of that and out we went. When they were 3-1/2

years old, I signed Jen up for a tap class at a different studio.

This new studio and teacher worked out great. The teacher was very

disciplined with the kids plus she had an awesome waiting room with

plenty of toys and a TV and VCR. For me, I found a new home for

dancing. The teacher/class worked out great for Jen and more

importantly, the waiting room was critical for me to keep 2 boys

entertained. We've been there ever since and Jen's going into her

3rd year of tap. My suggestion to you would be to shop around at

other studios that offer what you're looking for for Becca, but you

have to also consider a nice area for to play in if he's not

interested in dance. Both are real important if anyone is going to

get any enjoyment out of all that. I've always said if it's too

stressful for me, then we're not doing it. As my kids have gotten

older, it's definately gotten easier to entertain whoever's not

involved with that particular activity. The second year Jen tapped,

wanted to tap, so I let him. So, at 2-1/2 he was running

around the room, and at 4-1/2 he was mature enough to focus. Even

though you have twins, they both may not want to do the same things

nor will they necessary be good at the same things even if they wish

to do them together. So, keep an open mind. This year, all 3 of my

kids are playing soccer in town. Jen and are doing great,

and is trying like heck. This has been the first activity

all 3 of them can and wanted to do. And, yes, they are on the same

team to make my life easier.

So, keep trying to find things they might both enjoy to make your

life easier. If not, keep in mind you do need a comfortable place

to entertain whoever's left out. I know for me, aside from

activies, haircuts have always been a challenge because I usually

take all 3 at the same time and rotate them thru. I found a place

that does a great job cutting, but more importantly their waiting

area has a TV and VCR. It also helps when you have understanding

people trying to work with you to make the process a little easier.

Some are more willing than others to keep the peace.

Let me know if I can be of any more help. I totally relate to what

you're going thru.

Cheryl