Welcome to the Season Finale of the Fierce Kind Mama of Multiples podcast!

In this special episode, I take a deep dive into the often-overlooked positive aspects of raising multiples. Inspired by an expectant mother's quest for uplifting stories about parenting twins, triplets or more, I shift the focus from the usual challenges to highlight five key benefits of being a parent to multiples.

You'll learn about the unique bond that can develop between multiple birth siblings, how being a multiple birth sibling can enhance social and empathy skills, and why parents of multiples often become more efficient and resilient.

Drawing from my personal journey as a mother of twins and my professional expertise, I provide insights and observations that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Whether you're currently expecting or already navigating life with multiples, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on the incredible joys and rewards of raising more than one baby at a time.

Don't miss this heartwarming and enlightening season finale, and stay tuned for updates on the upcoming Season 4. Plus, discover how you can better manage the stressors of parenting with the Be Fierce Be Kind online program.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free guide for parents preparing for multiple births and free guide on managing stress and overwhelm: Fierce Kind Mama Free Resources
• Be Fierce Be Kind online program: Be Fierce Be Kind Program

Thank you for joining us this season! If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out. I look forward to connecting with you again in Season 4.

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this episode, I am joined by Dr Sophie Brock, a Motherhood Studies Sociologist and Mother who offers education on the sociology of motherhood and how our broader society shapes our experience as mothers.

Here's a summary of the main points discussed in this episode:

• Sense of Self and Identity: Mothers of multiples, particularly those with children who may have additional needs, grapple with the challenge of maintaining their sense of identity outside of their role as mothers.
• Grief and Othering: There's a grieving process experienced by mothers of multiples, especially when their experiences don't align with the idealised version of motherhood. This can be compounded if one or more of their children have disabilities. Mothers may feel othered within the community of mothers of multiples, particularly if their children have additional needs.
• Individualization Theory: The individualization theory, which prioritizes individualism and independence, doesn't fit well for mothers, especially those caring for children with disabilities. It invisibilises socioeconomics, trauma, and the realities of marginalisation and privilege. Instead, interdependence and vulnerability are important aspects of human relationships and should be acknowledged.
• The Good Enough Mother: The concept of the good enough mother, coined by Donald Winnicott, emphasizes that there's no perfect mother. It's about embracing the reality of our humanity and acknowledging that tolerable failures are beneficial for both mothers and children. We discuss how mothers can examine their internalised ideals of motherhood and define motherhood on their own terms.
• Dealing with Judgments: Mothers, including those of multiples, often face judgment from others and themselves. Building tolerance for discomfort, connecting with personal values, and disentangling social scripts can help mothers navigate these judgments and find acceptance in their own mothering journey.

How to connect with Dr Sophie Brock:
Website:
https://drsophiebrock.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/drsophiebrock/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/drsophiebrock/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this episode, I explore the often-overlooked emotional aspect of multiple-birth pregnancies. Many expectant mothers experience a range of fears and worries, from concerns about pregnancy complications to feelings of grief and loss. Despite the prevalence of these emotions, few professionals address the emotional well-being of expectant mothers, leaving many feeling isolated and misunderstood.

To address the emotional challenges of pregnancy, I discuss various relaxation techniques, including deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery. These practices have been shown to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, and promote overall well-being. I also introduce the Breathe Easy program, a novel approach to relaxation designed specifically for pregnant mothers of multiples.

Click here to out more about the Breathe Easy program:

https://www.fiercekindmama.com/tapping

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB