You’ve just welcomed a beautiful baby into the world, but introducing a new member into your family unit can sometimes be tricky.
It is important to remember that accepting a baby into the home can be a difficult transition for your child, so exercise a lot of patience and prepare for many questions.
These simple tips are sure to ease the new big brother or sister into older sibling life in no time.
Baby comes in peace
Before you have your baby, prepare a small present for your child and carry it with you in your hospital bag. When your little one comes to visit you in the hospital make sure to tell them that the present is a special gift from the new baby. During this time your child may become jealous of the new baby’s gifts so allow them the luxury of unwrapping them and ‘giving them’ to the baby. This will help your little one feel more included in the process.
Play the name game
Allow your child to have an input in your new addition’s name. You might not want to name your baby ‘Spider Man Keane’ or ‘Barbie McKenna’ but asking for your child’s opinion will make them feel more included and connected to the baby. Allow your child to give the baby with a nickname.
Compliment your child
It is only natural for visitors to compliment your new bundle of joy but it is important to remember that your child may feel neglected. When someone says ‘What a gorgeous baby’, acknowledge your child with a response such as ‘Now we have two lovely children’, or ‘Isn’t the baby lucky she has such a strong big brother?’
Include your child
During your first few days in the hospital and at home, request that your child help you with certain tasks such as fetching nappies or folding the baby’s clothes. It is important to keep them occupied and by including your child in caring for the baby, you are making sure they feel like they are a part of it.
Daddy time
While you are in hospital, your partner should be extra conscious of spending time with your child. The pair should do something fun together, such as go bowling or take a trip to the park. Your partner should stress that he loves the new arrival but he is glad he has the chance to spend time with your little one on his own. Your partner should stress that just because there is a new baby on the scene it doesn't mean that your child won't get to spend time with their mom and dad.
