Having another baby is a wonderful thing for parents, but it may not be so wonderful for your other child or children if they do not know what to expect. If you do not prepare them for the new baby that is coming the following things may happen, jealousy, sadness, anger, they may try to hit the baby when nobody is looking, they may start acting like a baby again, they will act out for attention and many other things. Here are some tips for helping your children get ready and understand that there is a new baby coming
Start early - As soon as you find out you are pregnant the very first person or people you should tell are your children, even if they do not understand yet, they will get it eventually with a little help.
Tell them, show them - Telling them your having a new baby is not enough to help them understand, you have to show them your belly as it grows.
Pictures - Before your first ultrasound comes bring out the ultrasound pictures of your children, show them that the picture is of them when they used to live in your belly. If possible, make copies and give a copy of the picture to your child, at your ultrasound appointment bring your child with you and remind them to bring their picture. When you see the baby on the screen show your child and explain that in his picture he was in mommies belly just like the new baby is in mommies belly right now.
Kisses and hugs - As your belly grows, let your child hug your belly and kiss your belly.
Ask questions - When your child is touching your belly ask questions such as " Is it a boy or a girl? " " Do you love the baby? " " Is it your brother or sister? " " Can you feel baby moving in there? " " Where is the baby? " It helps them know that there is a little person in there that they love and want.
Play house - Get a doll that is just like a newborn baby and show it to your child. Get the smallest onesie you can and get your child to help you dress the baby or even diaper the baby. If you have set up the crib, swing or other baby items tell your child to put the doll in it. Give the doll a name, if you've picked a baby name already use that name. Show your child how to feed the baby and burp the baby. Call the doll little sister or little brother if you know the gender of your baby. Get a small play stroller and put the doll in it and go for a walk.
Heartbeat - Bring your children to the doctors appointment so that they can hear the babys heartbeat.
Books - Read books about new babies and show pictures of other pregnant women.
Visit - With friends or relatives who have babies. Hold the baby and ask your child "Where is mommies baby?" then point to your belly. Let your child touch the baby and remind him/her that they have to be nice and gentle with the baby.
Be sure you spend lots of time with your children before and after the new baby comes. Make special time just for you and your child such as, movie time, snuggle time, bedtime stories, mealtime, etc. The reason most kids become jealous of a new baby is the fact that some parents do not make enough time for them. The best way to avoid it is to just make time! I know, harder then it sounds, but it is possible.
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