Are you expanding your family?

This is an exciting time. Whether you’re having another biological child or you’re looking to adopt a new baby, there are a lot of things to plan out. However, have you planned out how you’re going to prepare your child for their new younger sibling?

While you might be excited, your child doesn’t yet understand what’s happening, or what it means to have a new baby around. If they’re old enough to communicate with friends, they may know what a baby is, but they’re unprepared for their new role.

Let’s talk about helping an older sibling cope with and adapt to the new normal of a larger family.

Don’t Punish Jealousy

While not all children experience jealousy when a new baby arrives, it’s not uncommon. The stereotype of the sibling rivalry is real.

This jealousy may show itself in the form of acting out, tantrums, or (after the baby is born) attempts to tease or harm the new child.

It’s tempting to get angry with your older child but try to understand how they’re feeling. Punishment solidifies the idea that the new baby is more important than them. Instead, see things on their level.

After they decompress during quiet time, comfort them and talk to them about their feelings.

Read to Them

There are plenty of books available that are all about welcoming a new sibling into the home. When a child is too young to understand explanations, they can use picture books to grasp the concept of a new baby.

Read to your child and guide them through the idea that they’ll experience things that are just like the stories. Your child may connect with these characters and have a better feeling about the situation when they have someone (even a fictional someone) to relate to.

Let Them Help You

Children love to help. Take advantage of this by letting them help you prepare for the new baby.

While they won’t be painting the nursery or building a crib, they can help you pick out decorations, offer up name suggestions (even if you don’t use them), and find toys and clothes that they’d like for the new baby.

If they aren’t yet old enough to help, buy them a baby doll (regardless of their gender) and accessories like a toy crib and stroller. Letting them play-pretend as a parent can help acclimate them to the idea of a real baby.

Provide a Lot of Attention

Your child might be worried that they’re being replaced, or that you won’t have time for them anymore when the new baby arrives.

Realistically, you will have less time to devote to the older child when you have a newborn. You now have to split your time between your children while one is too small to play with the other.

Before and after the new baby arrives, set aside time for your older child. You can take them to fun places, play their favorite games, and engage in quality time.

A Younger Sibling is a Big Adjustment

This change will affect everyone in the family, and your child is no exception. Make sure that your child is prepared for their younger sibling. Preparing ahead of time will save your child distress in the future and help for an easier transition into their new role as an older brother or sister.

Are you looking for childcare and education options for your child? Are you planning ahead for the new baby?

At Grow With Us Learning Academy, we provide engaging and educational childcare that will give your child a great start in life. Contact us to learn about our programs or register today.