The First Year with Twins Week 13

Last updated on November 2nd, 2023 at 10:14 am

Learn what to expect with your infant twins week 13, including tips, tricks, and advice from real twin parents who have been there.

All content on this website, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

Your Twins Week 13

Welcome back returning twin parents! Hello and welcome to the new twin parents who are just finding us today!

You made it through your first three months as a twin parent and you’re now heading into your fourth month of twin parenthood. This is a huge accomplishment! Little known secret: we knew you could do it!

Now what? Well, this is a good place to start. We have plenty of information and resources to help you navigate twin parenting with your twins week 13.

Our twin parenting tips come from our very own experienced twin parents from around the world! These parents have all been there, done that, and are ready to share their tips and tricks with you for twins week 13.

If you haven’t already, now is a great time to look into our membership program. Connect with another twin parent who has been where you are and can offer support and advice specific to twin parenting at this stage!

The First Year with Twins Week 13 — 13 week old twins

What to Expect with Twins Week 13

Soon you’ll see a growth spurt! Around 3 months old a growth spurt happens and you should expect a period of increased appetite, fussiness and sleep disruption for your twins. You may need to feed them a little more during this time, but if they are bottle fed be careful not to overfeed your babies. Ask your doctor the maximum they should be eating to avoid overfeeding. If you are breastfeeding and they are waking up more than usual to feed, just remember to try to keep them feeding together.
Going back to work soon? Read these back to work tips to get ready.
Your twins’ may soon start to flip over. You’ll start to see them rocking from side to side. They will probably flip from front to back first. When you see them starting to roll, begin the transition out of a swaddle and into a sleep sack (wearable blanket). Try the Love to Dream Transition Bag for when they start to roll. (buy on Amazon)
Your twins may start teething soon. This will cause sleep disruption so prepare with these tips for teething.
Now is a good time to start putting your babies to sleep “drowsy, but awake”. Lay them to bed on their backs while still awake and leave the room. This will help them start to learn how to self soothe. They will probably cry and want to be picked back up, which is OK — you should do that, then settle them down and try again. Just keep trying and don’t feel defeated if it doesn’t work for a while. Practice is what we’re looking for right now.
Your twins’ eyes now work better together and vision is becoming more three dimensional. You’ll start to notice your twins’ hand-eye coordination developing fast.
Practice tummy time during the daylight hours. By 3 months old, you should be up to 60 minutes of tummy time a day. Break this down into a few times a day after feedings. Read more about tummy time here
Keep your babies on a blanket or play mat on the floor as much as possible during the day. Put toys and baby mirrors around them to encourage them to reach out and begin to move.
Try to limit using baby containers (bouncy chairs, swings, etc.) for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Learn more about container baby syndrome here
Carrying your twins so they can look over your should encourages them to lift their heads and look around. You will likely have to do this one baby at a time but eventually they will get really good at it and you can try to carry both at once. Tandem baby carriers are great for this and they also let you get more things done around the house.
Your twins will by now be putting their fingers into their mouths and trying to grasp objects and bring them to their mouths. Be extra careful about what you leave out within the twins’ reach. Anything that can fit through a toilet paper roll can get lodged in your baby’s throat.
You’ll start noticing your babies going through fewer diapers. But you’ll still be buying a LOT of diapers. Expect to go through 100-125 diapers per week for twins through Week 16. (buy on Amazon)
You’ll probably be doing 6 feedings a day (every 4 hours). Make sure you’re feeding your babies at the same time and putting them down to sleep at the same time to keep them together on a schedule. Learn about bottle-feeding here
Babies are eating typically 4 – 6 oz at each feed for twins week 13, but if your babies are preemies they may be eating less. Ask your pediatrician what is the appropriate amount for your babies based on their weights.
You can expect your twins to gain around 6-8 oz each week now. They need sleep in order to grow. Research shows that 80% of growth hormone is secreted during slumber.
Start practicing good hygiene to prevent illness but don’t go overboard with the anti-bacterial wipes. Some contact with germs in important for your twins. Baby’s immune system will not be given the opportunity to develop properly without having things to fight. Aim to keep things “clean” rather than “sterile”. This will ensure your home is safe from harmful germs yet suitable to allow their immune systems to develop properly.
Your twins are fascinated by everything that’s going on around them, and attracting their attention while feeding and changing may be difficult. If feedings are taking too long, move to a quiet room with fewer distractions.
If one or both twins are suffering from diarrhea or being fussy at feedings, it’s possible they have an allergy to their formula or to something you’re eating (if you’re breastfeeding). Talk to your doctor about this. They may be able to prescribe a special formula (which may be covered by insurance.)
By around 3 months old, your twins will be sleeping about 15 hours every day. About 10 of those will be at night and the other 5 hours will be broken into 3 naps during the day. See our feeding and napping schedule below for a sample schedule.
Now is a good time to start a bedtime routine. A bath, a book, a feeding, a lullaby, and down to sleep is a great routine. This pattern will cue your babies to learn that “bedtime” is starting. Do the same thing every night and they’ll start to catch on to your cues. Learn more about bedtime routines here
This week is the earliest we recommend to start sleep training. We do not recommend trying to sleep train before 12 weeks old. But your twins might not be ready to sleep through the night yet and that’s totally normal. Many parents have success with sleep training around 5-6 months old. Read more on sleep training here
Babies’ skin is thinner, more sensitive, and less oily than adults’ skin which makes it prone to drying out. If your babies’ skin is dry, try not to bathe them too often (every 3-4 days is fine) and avoid using soap or bubble bath. Plain warm water or a drop of hypoallergenic baby bath is enough.
Your babies should be placed to sleep on their backs on a firm, flat surface with only a tightly-fitted crib sheet. No blanket, no toys, no bumpers, no flat sheets. You baby should wear a swaddle blanket or wearable blanket for warmth and comfort. Do not sleep your babies on an inclined surface (learn why here). Following these recommendations will greatly reduce the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. Learn more about SIDS here.

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Common Concerns From the Moms Who Have Been There With Twins Week 13

How can I manage cradle cap?
Will I be able to pump breast milk when I return to work?
How do I split my attention between my babies?
When should I worry about my twins head shape?
When will my twins sleep through the night?
How will we manage the cost of raising twins?

The Twins Tale Podcast by Twiniversity is an intimate look into the lives of twin parents and their twins at all ages and stages, from birth through college. We interview twin parents in the trenches and ask all the burning questions you want to know about raising twins: schedules that work, feeding your twins, getting out of the house, finding sanity, and so much more. Subscribe for FREE today!

Milestones & Developmental Leaps Parents Have Noticed With Twins Week 13

What’s going on with development in twins week 13?

Your twins may finally be sleeping for longer stretches. See below for a sample feeding and napping schedule. Learn more about sleep training here
You babies will being to swipe at or kick their toys as they learn to interact with them.
You may notice your twins mouthing as if they are speaking when you are speaking to them. They are practicing the movements.
Your twins will feel objects in their hands without always grabbing them.
You may see (and hear) your twins attempting to mimic sounds you are making at them or making cooing noises, as if they are practicing communication skills. Talk to them often so they can practice.
Your twins curiosity has them demanding to sit up and look around more often this week.
Your babies may start to notice each other. It’s a common misconception that newborn twins know they are a twin. They don’t! They are in their own little world and don’t notice their twin is even there for a while. But once they do — look out! keep your camera nearby to capture the twinnie moments to come!

Challenges You Might Experience With Twins Week 13

There are some challenges to look out for with twins week 13

Inconsistent sleep. Learn how to get more sleep with twins here
Your twins may be teething. Learn about relief for your teething twins here
Many twin parents worry about their babies congestion around this time.
Spit up and reflux may be rearing its ugly head. Read how some twin parents deal with reflux here

Twins week 13 and 14 — 14 week old twins

Tips from Parents of Twins Week 13

Take some tips from experienced twin parents!

Try to keep them awake more during the day so they don’t get days and nights mixed up.
Don’t forget the tummy time. It’s good for them and it’s a great distraction.
Self-care is important. Please remember to take care of you too, not just your twinnies. Learn about the warning signs that you’re not taking care of yourself here
Rotate their toys to keep them engaged.
Take them for walks. Getting out is good for you and for them.

Personal Advice from Parents of Twins Week 13

“Sit them at the table, in high chairs (reclined), for adult dinner. Even if they don’t eat, they will appreciate the company. Turn chores into family activities. If you need to assemble furniture, put the twins on loungers, play music, and assemble the furniture near them. You will be their entertainment. As usual, continue to say yes to any offer for help. If you are still tired, sleep when they sleep. Take it one day at a time.”
Maria D

“Have patience and give yourself grace, this is hard work but you’re doing a great job! Invest in a safe vibrating rocker, play gym, or double sling (in case both twins need to be held at the same time). Also, if breastfeeding at this point, a portable pump is a must.”
Bailey G.

“Remember how far you’ve come, how much easier it is and how strong you are. Also remember that all of this will also pass for better or worse- Soak up the good parts. If you are struggling- ask for help! I have been getting frustrated and angry and just asked my mom to start coming once a week again and I already feel relief!”
Alisha A.

“A play mat comes in handy and crinkle toys are a must. Be ready to snuggle and pacify. Rotating babies to entertain helps; mat, swing, twin pillow, etc. Start to get on a sleep schedule if not already on one!”
Jessica S.

“Try to get out. It’s hard, but worth it! Ask for help! Take breaks. You can put the babies down to enjoy a cup of coffee! Don’t be too nervous to put the twins in the nursery! Enjoy time with you spouse (nice dinner at home, favorite TV show!)”
Tracey M.

12 Ways to Capture Twin Milestones

Got twins? Us too! The Twiniversity Podcast with Natalie Diaz was created BY parents of twins FOR parents of twins, from your pregnancy days through your twin’s teenage years, this podcast covers it all. It’s all about parenting twins, offering plenty of strategies for making life better, parenting hacks, and, of course, humor. We are laughing WITH you every step of the way.

Questions You Might Have for Your Pediatrician About Your Twins Week 13

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends babies get doctor checkups at birth, 3 to 5 days after birth and then at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 24 months. Reminder that twins = two co-pays for each doctor’s visit.

Is watching television bad for them?
Are they old enough for sleep training?
Could they be teething already?
When can we skip or stretch out the night feeds?
Which sunblock is safest for my babies skin?

You Might Want These Items for Your Twins Week 13

Fisher-Price Kick and Play Piano Gym (buy on Amazon)
Munchkin Mozart Music Cube (buy on Amazon)
Soft sensory books (buy on Amazon)
Baby monitors (buy on Amazon)
Aquaphor healing ointment (buy on Amazon)
Structured baby carrier (buy on Amazon)
White noise machine (buy on Amazon)
Tummy time mat (buy on Amazon)
Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced (buy on Amazon)
For gas: gripe water (buy on Amazon) or gas drops (buy on Amazon)
Crib Mobile (buy on Amazon)
Bokee (buy on Amazon)
Sit-Me-Up Floor Seat (buy on Amazon)
Love to Dream SwaddleUP (buy on Amazon)
Love to Dream Transition Bag for when they start to roll (buy on Amazon)
NoseFrida the “Snotsucker” (buy on Amazon)
Baby toys like the Whoozit (buy on Amazon), the Winkle (buy on Amazon), Take Along Tunes (buy on Amazon), and a floor mirror (buy on Amazon)
For more recommended baby products, click here

You Might Want These Items for Yourself

Shadow boxes for hospital keepsakes (buy on Amazon)
Twins monthly milestone baby blanket (buy on Amazon)
Milestone baby photo cards (buy on Amazon)
Self-care items such as makeup, hair products, new clothes, or anything to make you feel human again

Feeding and Nap Schedule for 3 Month Old Twins

A schedule with twins week 13 is key! Schedules keep you organized. Let’s just say that the importance of organization when you are outnumbered by twins simply cannot be overstated now that the twins are becoming more alert and demanding of your time and attention. Here is a feeding and nap schedule for twins week 13 and 14 (3 months old).

7 am feed
8 am tummy time and play
9 am nap
10 am wake and play
11 pm feed
12 pm tummy time and play
1 pm nap
2 pm wake and play
3 pm feed
4 pm tummy time and play
5 pm nap
6 pm wake, bath, and book
7 pm feed and down for the night
11 pm feed and back to bed
3 am feed and back to bed
When your doc gives you the OK to stop waking them up at night, feed both babies when the first baby wakes and cries to eat and get them back to sleep ASAP.

The key to twins is sticking to your schedule to the best of your ability. Something is bound to come up to disrupt your routine. It’s okay. Get back on track for the next feeding when you can.

Do everything in your power to feed your twins together to make sure you get breaks. If they are on opposite feeding schedules, you will never get a break — and you deserve one!

Sleep Regressions: A Tired Twin Mom’s Advice

Sleep Advice From the Sleep Lady

Infants are notorious for interrupted sleep. Come to think of it, why do people say they slept like a baby? That sounds dreadful to me!

If you feel like your twins may never get the hang of consistently sleeping through the night and napping, you aren’t alone. You might be wondering when things get easier in the sleep department.

There are some things you can do to help get some shut eye for you and your twins, and ensure some good sleep patterns for you all to enjoy for years to come.

The Sleep Lady, Kim West, LCSW-C says: “If your baby is not sleeping at night (or during naps), it’s okay to rely on your baby’s nap sleep crutch to ensure that your child gets enough naps at the right times of the day. How can you do that? I suggest that you continue to use the naptime sleep crutch and create a flexible schedule that includes your baby’s naptimes, so that your baby is getting quality daytime sleep while you are focused on night coaching.”

See more of what The Sleep Lady Recommends about your newborn twins’ sleep here.

When to Call the Doctor

It’s better to overreact 100% of the time than to underreact once.
Natalie Diaz, Twiniversity Founder and Mom of Twins

When it comes to calling your doctor or seeking medical advice, you have to learn to trust yourself. When in doubt, call. The thing is, a good pediatrician will NEVER make you feel stupid for being concerned about your twins well-being. Remember that and hire and fire accordingly.

That being said, there are a few guidelines to follow. There are a few circumstances under which you should call your doctor and get medical advice, or even call 911. When you call you should have a pen and paper handy and be prepared to give the following information over the phone:

Immunization records
Any medications, dosages, and times last taken (even over the counter drugs)
Medical history
Your baby’s temperature
Mention that the baby is a twin, in case of a contagious illness

Any time you see the following symptoms with your twins you should contact your pediatrician immediately.

Blood in vomit
Blood in stool
Seizure
Suspected poisoning
Bleeding you cannot stop
Unable to move
Limpness
A rectal temperature of 100.4 or above
Sleeps more than usual or will not wake up
Yellow skin or eyes

Call your doctor as soon as possible if one or both of your twins experiences any of the following.

Refusal to eat for multiple feedings in a row
Diarrhea or vomiting
A cold that will not resolve itself or gets worse
Unexplained rash
Signs of dehydration (no tears, no wet diapers, sunken eyes, sunken soft spot)
Ear drainage
Will not stop crying

When to Call 911

Please note that when you call 911, you and your baby will be taken to the nearest emergency room. This may or may not be located at your preferred hospital.

Your baby is turning blue or taking more than 60 breaths per minute
Your baby has a seizure which lasts more than 3 minutes or you cannot reach their doctor by phone immediately
Suffers from convulsions, unconsciousness, or irregular breathing following a fall or from bleeding
You think your baby may have a skull, neck, back, or pelvic fracture (DON’T move your baby)
Your baby suffers from a compound fracture where bone is sticking out from the skin (cover it with a clean cloth and do not touch it)
Your baby has bleeding you cannot stop after applying pressure for 10 minutes

Again, learn to trust your gut. When in doubt, call and see what your doctor thinks. That’s what they’re there for.

What You Should Read for Twins Week 13

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Don’t Forget to Do These Things With Twins Week 13

You might feel like you’re starting to get your bearings with twins week 13 and 14. It’s getting a little better each week with regards to sleep and routine, and will continue to. We have put together a short list of a few things to remember that might help you out a bit.

Take pictures and keep a memory book/box! These moments pass so quickly that you couldn’t possibly keep track of it all in your head. You’ll be glad to have a record of the memories one day soon!
Keep your own mental and physical well-being in check! You can’t pour from an empty cup! Be sure to eat and drink plenty of water. You’re no good to your babies if you aren’t well. Make sure you talk to someone about how you are feeling when you are overwhelmed. Postpartum hormones are no joke!
Keep in close communication with your pediatrician. Keep a running list of questions or concerns to bring up at the next appointment. Call the office anytime to ask more pressing questions.
Teamwork makes the dream work! Burn out is real and it happens faster than you might think with twins! When it becomes too much, lean on your partner and tag them in for a bit. Don’t try to do it alone. If you have support, let them support you.

Are You a New Twin Parent?

Check out Natalie Diaz’s book:
“What To Do When You’re Having Two
The Twin Survival Guide From Pregnancy Through the First Year”

In What to Do When You’re Having Two: The Twins Survival Guide from Pregnancy Through the First Year, national twins guru and founder of Twiniversity (and twin mom herself!) Natalie Diaz provides a no-holds-barred resource about life with twins, from pregnancy and birth all the way through your duo’s first year of life.

Accessible and informative, What to Do When You’re Having Two
is the must-have manual for all parents of twins.

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An excerpt from Twiniversity founder Natalie Diaz’s book, “What To Do When You’re Having Two“

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Making Milestones

You won’t believe how fast they’ll change! Keep in mind one of the most challenging parts of being a parent of twins is not comparing your children when it comes to developmental milestones (and everything else!). When one of my twins first rolled over, I quickly looked at the other baby to see if that one would roll, too. When one said their first word, I wondered when the other would say theirs. Even though I knew that they were two different people, it was very difficult not to constantly compare them to one another. If you see the gap between their milestones getting bigger, don’t hesitate to point it out to your pediatrician, but otherwise don’t forget that if they aren’t identical, they are simply siblings with the same birthday (and even identical twins aren’t exactly alike).