How to develop a healthy balance between experiencing life as part of a twin pair and being an individual is a work in progress for many twins, their families and friends.

From when they are born, twins and their parents are on the end of intrusive questions from a fascinated public: Are they twins? Are they identical? There seems to be a constant pressure for twins to be viewed as a unit as opposed to unique individuals.

Everyone's experience is different but ATR Deputy Director; A/Professor Jeff Craig provides some guidance in a recent article in the Chicago Tribune about twin identity.

A/Prof Jeff Craig discusses the topic of identity and multiples, arguing that fostering individuality is crucial. He suggests that parents consider non-rhyming names, different clothing and alone time with each twin as a good place to start.

According to Jeff Craig: "In particular, if there's one thing twins hate most, it's being referred to as 'the twins' or 'twinnies'. They want to be called their names."