Becoming a big brother or sister is a big change in a toddler’s little life. Helping your toddler become excited and accepting of the position can ease the transition for everyone.
The arrival of another child can bring new joy for you and your toddler, but it can also add a whole new set of challenges. Your toddler may feel anger or jealousy when the new baby arrives.
Here are a few steps you can take to help your toddler with the arrival of the new little baby!
*Create an assistant. Before your toddler gets a chance to become jealous of the new baby brother or sister, put him or her to work. Your toddler will feel important and needed when fetching diapers or bottles, helping feed the baby and holding a book for you to read. Not only will this give you a break, but it also allows your toddler to feel more connected and involved with the new baby and will improve the relationship between your children.
*Keep it the same. Avoid changing the routine of daily life at home when your newest little one comes along. By canceling family night or other regular outings, your toddler may learn to dislike the baby, since he or she seems to be ruining all the fun.
*Let your toddler be “big.” You can help improve your toddler’s frame of mind by encouraging him or her to grasp the new role as big brother or sister. Your toddler can take pride in the fact that he or she is potty-trained, can feed him or herself and can do other things that set him or her apart from the new baby.
*Prepare your toddler. Explain to your child before the baby is born what changes to expect—good and bad. Encourage your toddler to ask questions about the baby and make sure that he or she understands how life will change in the coming months. If possible, let your toddler tour the hospital where you will be giving birth and assure him or her that everything will be fine.
