Caroline Springs mother Jody Klemencic says many parents across the west are facing the struggle of managing multiple births.

She has non-identical twins of her own who will start school this week.

She says they often want attention at the same time and can sometimes feel as though they're being treated as if they were the one child.

"With multiples it can be really hard on the parents because the children are developing at the same stage and have similar needs," she says.

"It's important they don't feel like they are half or a third of a child. They might be identical, but they have different needs and are different people."

Mrs Klemencic is president of the North West Multiple Birth Club.

The club, started in 1974 as the Tullamarine and District Parents of Twins Club, was established to support families of multiple children.

The non-profit club has 70 member families who meet regularly for information sessions and social events.

"We run monthly escape nights for parents where we set up baby sitters so the parents can go out and have some fun," Mrs Klemencic says.

"We also run a playgroup for the children and send out a newsletter which gives parents information on parenting techniques and support contacts."

Mrs Klemencic urges parents of multiples having a tough time to contact the group.

More details: 0429356741.