Preparing Your Older Child For A New Baby
If you’re expecting your second child it’s important to prepare your firstborn for the birth of the new baby early on.
Sibling rivalry can happen when a child feels left out by the arrival of a new baby sibling.
If this happens your child may act out by resorting to 'babyish' behavior in a demand for your attention or may even show aggression toward the newborn.
It’s important to include your child as much as you can throughout the pregnancy and after the baby is born. He or she can help change diapers, dress the baby, or even push the stroller
If your older child has to move into a new bedroom or bigger bed, start those changes in advance. If you wait until the newborn moves in, your firstborn will feel replaced.
Many hospitals now offer classes for siblings that will educate them as to the birth of the new sibling as well as show them delivery rooms and help ease them into their new role of being a big brother or sister.
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