It’s so important to remain an active and involved parent throughout the crucial early years. Of course, adolescence can be challenging and questions will be asked (!), but your input and guidance will be as important as ever. Encourage your multiples to make separate friends. Even though it may be resisted initially, it’s so important for them to create friends on their own. These experiences help to nurture self-reliance and confidence. Educate others about the fact that multiples want separate friends and experiences. Most non-twin parents feel uncomfortable about inviting only one twin or triplet over or to a party because they’re concerned about leaving the other/s out. But you should clarify that it’s great for them to have some separate experiences and it’s part of their growth. Get comfortable with your multiples’ differences. Be aware of your feelings towards all of your children and this will help you to work through feelings of ambivalence and guilt. Don’t be overly concerned with your multiples fitting into the norms of expected multiple behaviour. Let them be who they are rather than insisting they be best friends and soulmates. Introduction by Dr Joan A. Friedman