Congratulations! You’re expecting a new
baby in your household. This can be an exciting an adventurous time for you and
your family. This can be especially
exciting if this is your second child you’re expecting! So how exactly do you
prepare your oldest child, for what is all to come?
For a young child, it may be a little
harder to understand the new excitement that is happening around the house—but
they do know that something is
different. By setting them aside, and explaining to them what this new stage
is, and by following the simple tips I have, your house will be in perfect
harmony.
When to spill the beans
Obviously not too early—usually the best
time is when your oldest notices your growing belly. This is a great time to
introduce a new baby coming to the family. Get your little one involved by
patting your tummy, or listening for anything. Tell her there is going to be a
new little brother or sister, and that she’ll have someone to hang out with.
Little things to prepare
Take your child on errands with you for your anticipated baby. Have
her pick out cute toys, the color of the crib, and other easy decisions. This
will help your oldest feel included with what is happening, and you’ll get to
spend that special one-on-one time before the new baby arrives.
Give a gift
Another great way to have your child feel
included is by giving a gift to represent their new “title” of an older
sibling. You could give something as easily as a big sister shirt,
or a teddy bear. This can also be used in reverse when the baby is born: have
your oldest give—her now younger sibling—a blanket or a toy—this will mean the
world to them when they’re older, and they’ll remember it forever.
Post Baby
Remember that your toddler is still a toddler. They’re going to still
be needy, and want attention. As long as you take a step back and remember
that, you won’t have high expectations of how your home will be.
A great way to make sure your oldest is
still feeling included, is by telling him or her that you’re going to be
spending “special” quality time with them. Make it known—even if it’s just a
quick amount of time together, they’ll be happy you made the time, and you will
too.
Have your oldest be included as much as you
can with the newborn. Have them help with picking out clothes, or grabbing a
towel for you after bath time. The little things mean the most, and they’ll
begin to establish a sense of responsibility towards their sibling.
Having a new baby in the house is
exciting—just remember that there will be momentary bumps along the way, but it
doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Enjoy this new stage in your life, and learn to
grow as a family.