As a mom of four kids, I'm here to assure you that this journey, while occasionally bumpy, can also be an amazing bonding experience
for your family!
Because of the big changes coming, it is important to do some preparation to help your older kiddos be ready for the new baby.
It can shake up their world quite a bit, especially if they are still very young themselves.
But with just a bit of preparation, you can set yourself up for a successful transition when your baby arrives.
So what can you do NOW to prepare for the new baby?
1. Books
Start by reading books that talk about siblings and new babies.
• "I'm a Big Sister" or "I'm a Big Brother" by Joanna Cole
Lovevery has a great set of books!
Have a fun trip to the library and search for more books on the subject of being a big sibling. Then check out the books and bring them home and have fun snuggling up and reading them to your child!
2. Let the older sibling help prepare
As you prepare the baby's room, let your older child be involved! Allow them to pick out some nursery decorations or a special gift for their new sibling. This involvement can help them feel like they're a crucial part of this special new chapter.
3. Keep Communication Open
Leading up to the birth, and in the weeks following, it’s important to maintain open lines of communication. If your child is old enough to share how they feel with words, ask them how they are feeling. Let them express any worries or fears, and affirm their feelings.
4. Let the Older Sibling Help After Baby Arrives
After the baby arrives, it's helpful to foster interaction between your older child and their new sibling. Let your older child "help" with the baby. Maybe they can pick out the baby's outfit for the day, or sing them a lullaby, or simply talk to the baby. This can help them form a bond with the baby, and feel included in this new phase of your family's life.
5. Pre-arrange one on one time with your older child
You want to reassure your older child that they're still loved just as much as before!
Try to arrange for some one-on-one time with them - a special movie night or a picnic in the park. It doesn’t have to be grand. What matters is spending quality time with them.
You can also look for simple little moments throughout the day when your baby is napping to read a book or have a snack together that allows for one on one time that is special for just the two of you.
Check out the Indianapolis Mom’s website (HERE!) where you will find a wealth of information and resources of places to go and activities you can plan with your older child.
6. Keep Their Routine
Ultimately, keep in mind that as parents, you're their compass in this new territory. It's important to keep as much of their normal routine as possible.Whether it's their beloved bedtime story, or that funny face you pull while having dinner, keeping some things the same will provide them with comfort.
And remember, every child is different and will react differently. It's about guiding them through this process with love, understanding, and patience.
I hope this helped offer some ideas on how to make this transition a bit smoother!
If you’re in the Indianapolis area and in need of a photographer to capture these first moments with your older child and new baby -
I’m here for you!
Click here to see my newborn photography portfolio
Contact me HERE to schedule a design consultation to plan for your amazing newborn session at my Indianapolis studio!