January 13, 2022

A New Sibling: 10 Ways to Prepare Your Child

A new sibling is a BIG change for any family. So, in order to make the transition as smooth as possible, it's important that parents do their research and prepare their older child(ren) ahead of time.

In this article we'll share 10 ways that you can help your little one(s) adjust to the idea of having a new playmate in the house:

Talk to them about the new baby

The first step in preparing your child for a new sibling is talking to them about the baby. A New Sibling: 10 Ways to Prepare Your Child

Some parents can get carried away and talk too much, or maybe don't explain things well enough - try not to overwhelm your little one with information that they might not understand; remember - their age matters and it's important, at least, to make them understand things are going to change.

Talk to your child about what a new sibling means

Explain the situation as simply as possible by giving details such as: how long it will take until the baby comes home from the hospital, whether there will be any visits beforehand (such as ultrasounds), where all of this might happen (in some cases you'll use a different room than usual) etc...

Additionally, let them know that while it's exciting to have another person join the family, it also means the family might need to make some adjustments in order for everyone's needs to be met.

Give them a chance to express their feelings and ask open-ended questions

By letting your child do most of the talking during this conversation, you'll give them an opportunity to voice any concerns they may have about becoming a big brother or sister.

Also, don't forget that asking open-ended questions such as: "Why do you think that?" will help expand on what they're saying and provide insights into how they feel.

Let them know that, no matter who comes into their lives next or who leaves (if anyone), they will always be loved; if needed, reassure your little one by telling them again.

Try to make them understand (in whatever small way they can) that while having another baby is exciting, it also means the family might need to make some adjustments in order for everyone's needs to be met.

It might also mean that, as their older child, they will need your help (yes - even when speaking to a toddler - it is important that they understand that what's about to happen is going to take a team effort and that their part is IMPORTANT).

Tell them that it is not their fault if they feel sad or mad.

Depending on their age, there is a chance that your little one will feel sad or maybe even mad that suddenly they are no longer the only child in the equation; they might even think/feel like they did something wrong and that this is somehow their punishment: a new baby who'll scream the house down and gets all the attention, so now what?

Prepare for changes in household routine

Let them know that they will always be loved no matter how many siblings they have or who comes into their lives next; tell them again how much they are loved so there are no misunderstandings - let your little one knows where she stands and so do you.

It is not her fault if she feels sad or mad about what has happened (even though such feelings should never be taken personally).

There may even come a time when someone may say something hurtful which could contribute to the way she feels about herself (and/or her new sibling).

Create a list of things for your kids to do when they're feeling mad

Prepare for changes in household routine such as less one-on-one time with you parents and more sharing of toys and belongings - including parental attention.

If needed reassure him/her by telling them again how much he/she are loved no matter who comes into their lives next or who leaves (if anyone), always being reminded of this fact so there are no misunderstandings.

Let them know that it is okay to be mad about what's happening, but also explain how they can express their feelings in a positive way by coming up with ideas together which might help both of you find different ways for dealing with anger or sadness (e.g. writing about it, drawing, punching pillows - you get the idea).

Set up a new bedroom for the baby and let them help decorate it

Give your child responsibility by assigning them tasks like setting out clothes or picking up toys before bedtime.

Spend time with just you and your child before the baby comes without any distractions.

Spend time with just you and your child without any distractions.

This will help re-connect you as well as give them some attention away from their siblings/newborn sibling if that's what they need at that moment in order for everyone to feel loved.

Then when possible include other children into the mix so there is a balance between love and support while still giving one on one time where needed - it doesn't have to be equal but should take each individual circumstance into account.

This will help re-connect you as well as give them some attention away from their siblings/newborn sibling if that's what they need at that moment in order for everyone to feel loved.

Wrapping Up:

As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to protect and prepare your child for the new experiences that await them.

The best way to start this process is by talking about what they can expect as their sibling enters into this world with open arms - emotionally and physically!

What other tips would you offer parents-to-be who want the best possible outcome for themselves and their family?

Let us know below!