Disclaimer: The Dad is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a genuine question or concern about your children or the children of those around you, please seek the advice of a pediatrician or your local parish priest.
Dear The Dad,
How can you tell if your twins are identical?
Thanks, Dana
Dear Dana,
I get asked this question a lot, and while I am certainly no expert in the field, I'm happy to relate what I know.
Every twin born in the United States after 1974 is imprinted with a unique serial number. This serial number is located inside your twin's battery compartment and can be accessed through the following steps:
Lay your baby gently on his stomach and find the battery compartment. Using a quarter or similar object, open the battery compartment and carefully remove the battery. Underneath the battery should be one of the following:
For models born before 1996:
For models born on or after 1996:
If your twin is identical, the 10-character serial number (S/N) will be be followed by an "i": (S/N: XXXXXXXXXX-i). Otherwise, your twin is fraternal.
It is recommended that you copy your twin's serial number onto the registration card that came packaged with your baby and keep this in a secure place. This number will be needed if your child is ever lost or stolen or you have questions concerning your child's warranty.
After replacing the battery, it will be necessary to reboot your twin. This can be done by pressing the area just behind the child's left ear firmly with your thumb or forefinger.
Note: The proceding only applies to twins born in the United States. The serial numbers for twins imported from Asia or Central Europe are located, in most cases, on the sole of the child's left foot. For all other countries, contact your local embassy or consulate.
I hope this helps, Dana, and remember that it is always a good idea to make a complete backup of your twin before removing the battery or performing any major upgrades.
Good luck,
The Dad
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Is she saying a buck? Like a dollar? I must say, this is the most precious site I have ever been to!
Posted by: Bethany | September 28, 2006 at 09:03 PM