There is no doubt that babies require full attention when being welcomed into our lives. This certainly can cause some jealousy for siblings, and some very sad faces from the child that now has to share his space, time, and parents. There are many aspects of welcoming a baby that siblings can be not only a part of, but also feel like they are contributing to. Feeling like they are helping in the transition and not being ‘replaced’ by the baby is extremely important.
Here are a few tips to help prepare siblings with welcoming baby:
Talk to your child about your pregnancy. Involve your child in pregnancy news, your growing baby bump, doctor appointments, and all aspects of the growing baby. Children respond well to interesting and informative chats, the miracle of pregnancy can definitely make for an amazing topic.
One of the greatest things your child can do to help you prepare for a baby is to help organize the baby’s new room. Allow for time to bond while preparing your nursery. Kids love feeling productive and helpful, so it’s great when they know they have contributed their ideas and time to their little brother or sister’s new living space.
Hear your child’s opinions on name choices. Choosing a name for baby is a big decision, so gathering their thoughts on the topic, perhaps allowing them to contribute name choices, lets them know you value their opinion.
Talk to your child about the role they play as a big brother or big sister, and even as a role model. Help them understand that you are a loving, growing family, and another baby means more love to go around for everyone.
Make regular weekly play-dates to bond with your older child. Babies can take up so much time of your day, but a sibling should never feel that there is no time for them to have mommy or daddy all to his or her own. Planning alone time, separate from family and baby time, is a great way for kids to fee; secure that they still have that one-on-one time with you.
Invest in literature to help siblings appreciate the meaning of adding a new little life to your family and sharing their world. There is a great collection of children’s books guiding parents and kids to this great adjustment. Going to the library is a great way to read all about the amazing venture they are about to embark on as a big sister or big brother.
Check with your hospital or birthing center about classes for siblings and bonding with baby. These classes, just like touring the hospital and birthing programs, can be very informational and just what you need to learn of more great ways to ease up any tension between siblings.
A child should never feel as if he or she is being replaced. They should all feel loved in their very own way, and the best way to do that is to allow for bonding time from the very beginning. Learning to love, treasure and be there for their siblings is a lifelong lesson that it’s never too early to learn.
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