Having a new baby in the house is disruptive. It is, of course, also one of the most joyful times of a parent’s life. Older brothers and sisters may not think so, however. The good news is that there are some things you can do to help those early months of interaction between your new baby and other children be successful.

Here are some ways you can help your older children feel better about having a new little brother or sister:
- While you are still pregnant, let your child feel the baby move inside your belly. Talk to the baby inside your belly, and encourage your older child to do so as well.

- If possible, take your older child to one of your refresher birthing classes. In addition, your birthing center or hospital may offer sibling-preparation classes that can help ease the transition.

- Talk with your older child about how he was when he was a baby. Show him his old toys, and his old pictures. Tell him how tiny he was, and how you felt when he finally arrived.

- Let your older child pick out items for the nursery. Let her select bedding items, or perhaps a lamp or a picture for the wall.

- Acquire a book about becoming a big brother or big sister. There are a variety of these available.

- Make your older child a part of the welcoming team. Encourage him to make a recording of lullabyes to help the new baby sleep.

- Help your older child pick a gift to give to the new baby.

- Pick a gift for the new baby to give to your older child.

- Call your older child from the birthing center or the hospital on the phone. If labor lasts for several hours, call several times as you are able. Let her know that she is missed, loved, and appreciated.

- If possible, arrange for your older child to sleep in his own bed in his own house while you are away giving birth.

- After baby is born, make sure to spend some time alone with each of your children on a regular basis.

- If both children need something at the same moment, sometimes defer to the older child.

- Use active listening. When your child expresses frustration, let her know that you understand and that you can sympathize with her.

- Recruit your older child to help with the new baby.

- Make sure to continue positive reinforcement when your older child behaves well.

- When taking photos of the baby, take a few of the older child as well.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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