Preparing Siblings for the New Baby

Thoughts from student midwife: Theresa Blahut

One of the most difficult tasks for children expecting a new brother or sister is the thought of sharing.  Brothers and sisters may have to share their rooms and toys but also their parents attention.  Mothers may be wondering how they can love and give enough time to the new baby as they did with their first.  Addressing these issues with preparation throughout the pregnancy can lead to less friction once the baby comes.

There are several ways to prepare a child for a younger sibling.  The key is to try to make the child feel important and involved in the preparation.  Here are some suggestions:

• Enrolling him or her in a sibling class which usually includes learning to hold baby; making a gift for the new baby.
• Plan a trip to the library to find books on babies.
• Let him/her pick out items for the baby at the store.
• Have a "special" bag of toys and books for him/her when your attention needs to be on baby such as feeding.
• If the new baby will share him/her room, allow them to help arrange the room.

Once the baby arrives, make sure your older child is made to feel important too.  Perhaps give your older child a gift from the baby saying "I am glad you are my brother/sister".  Let your child know that there will be many visitors to see and spend time with the baby.  It is often helpful to have some quiet time alone with the older child at the end of the day.  Always talk to the older child to learn how best to help her through this time of transition.