The arrival of a wee baby brother or sister is bound to be a bit of a shock to your other children. And while the news may be hard for little minds to grasp, with a bit of preparation you can make it good news for everyone. The best tactic is to involve your child right from the word go. Let them touch your tummy and tell them about the baby growing inside – but don’t push the subject if they’re not interested. Show them where this new arrival will be sleeping and ask them for help with choosing newborn essentials, like clothes and toys.
Before your new baby arrives
While you or your partner are going through pregnancy there will be plenty of things you’ll want to get sorted for the new arrival. We’ve got some tips below to help you introduce your kids to the new brother or sister who’ll be joining the family.
After your new baby arrives
At first, your children might be more than a bit suspicious of the new arrival. Make sure you tell them again and again just how important they are to you, and how important they’re going to be to their new brother or sister.
Tip #1: First meeting
Tip #1: First meeting
Tip #2: Be tolerant
Tip #2: Be tolerant
Tip #3: Praise your child
Tip #3: Praise your child
Tip #4: Give them private space
Tip #4: Give them private space
As the new baby gets older
If your kids are bickering, try not to feel too down about it. It’s normal for brothers and sisters to fight and it’s one of the ways they learn to share, take turns and get on with other people. Follow our tips below for defusing quarrels.