Q&A
Preparing Your Child for New Baby Sibling
Question:
We have just found out that we're going to have another baby. How can we prepare our 2-year-old toddler for the arrival of her new sibling?
The addition of a second baby (or third or...) to the family is a really special transition for all members, but it can often mean feelings of insecurity for a young child: One minute she gets all your attention, and then suddenly there's a new baby in the house who's getting all mum and dad's cuddles.
Preparing your child for the arrival of her new sibling is key to making the transition easier for you and your child and helping her adjust to the role of big sister.
Only you know when to tell your toddler that you're expecting another baby. But once you do, there are ways to help prepare them emotionally. Toddlers need to feel involved and part of the new baby's arrival, so get them excited about it: Go shopping with your daughter and let her decide on some of the nursery things to buy, let her help out with the decoration of the baby's room.
When your bump gets bigger, introduce your child to the little life that's growing inside you: Talk to her about the wonder of birth by recounting the story of her own birth; read her books about pregnancy and babies; let her listen to the baby's heartbeat, "talk" to the baby through the womb, and even help rub cream into your tummy and feel the baby kick!
Now is also the time to make any necessary changes in your child's routine. For example, if your daughter's still sleeping with you at night, actively encourage her to move on to her own 'big girl's' bed. Make these changes early on – rather than when the baby arrives – so your child will be less likely to associate her new bed or routine with displacement.
The first few weeks after the birth of your second baby can be a challenging time as you attempt to get used to caring for two children. It will be great to include your daughter at every given opportunity of helping out with your new baby (and at the same time she will have lots of time with the baby to foster a strong bond). There are so many ways she can help: Let her sing nursery rhymes to the baby, fetch you a clean nappy when you're changing the baby, and even help sponge the baby's tiny feet during bath time! These little things mean a lot to toddlers and help your older child feel responsible and valued.
Of course, don't forget to lavish attention and praise on your toddler when she helps out, for instance, by telling her how lucky her little brother or sister is to have such a wonderful big sister.
And finally, do maintain that special one-on-one time with your older child: Snuggle up with a book or play a puzzle with her. She'll love having all your attention, just like the old times.
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