IS 3 REALLY BETTER THAN 2?

My twins are now an energetic 2 ½ years old! Overall, they are pretty well behaved, but I am not embarrassed to admit that they have their “moments” and those moments are definitely the terrible 2s. I know that these moments are a typical part of their development – understanding their limits, exerting their newfound independence, etc. – but they can just be utter chaos and throw your best laid plans for a loop.

For example, we were on vacation on the West Coast and we went out to dinner and all of a sudden Twin B had a major meltdown. We couldn’t understand it! We were at a restaurant that catered to kids, complete with a play area! Furthermore, Twin B loves to eat, loves restaurants, so this was certainly a surprise. My husband and I looked at each other, silently begging the other to take over. I lost that battle and took our son to the car to finish his meltdown, and when he was calmer, discuss appropriate restaurant behavior; all the while, mourning my delicious dinner and chilled glass of pinot gris.

At the time, we were with family and they assured us that the 3s were much better – you could reason with them, they understand better – but I think they were also secretly reveling in the fact that it was not their child who was out of control!

So, Mamas, what are your thoughts? Are the 3s really better than the 2s?