In January 2021, the Hasselquist family welcomed identical triplets Thomas, Henrik, and James into the world. To avoid confusion and ensure each baby could be individually recognized, the family adopted a clever color-coding system they learned from NICU nurses. Each triplet was assigned a specific color: Thomas donned red, Henrik wore blue, and James was adorned in green.
Despite their efforts to maintain this system through clothing, sleep sacks, and even crib colors, the risk of mix-ups remained, especially amidst the bustling activity following their return home to Wisconsin. To enhance their method, the triplets’ mother, Crystal, took an additional precaution by painting each baby’s big toe with a nail polish color corresponding to their assigned hue, a tip also acquired from the nursing staff.
The family’s unique identification strategy gained popularity when Auntie Amy Jo Hasselquist shared it on TikTok, resonating with many families who faced similar challenges. As the triplets have grown, their emerging personalities have further aided differentiation: Henrik, the playful leader; James, the ever-smiling charmer; and Thomas, the contemplative observer.
Notably, their older brother, Peter, demonstrated an innate ability to distinguish his brothers without relying on any color cues, underscoring a remarkable sibling bond. The Hasselquist family’s innovative approach not only facilitated the daily management of triplet care but also provided a heartwarming insight into the dynamics of raising multiples.