Other kids may become excited when a new baby is born. But they must learn to give the new infant their love and care as well. This can be a significant step, especially for young children. Perhaps you feel as though the focus is being taken away from you.

Every child must adjust when a new baby is added to the household. However, over time, a good sibling connection does emerge—typically by the time the new baby is around 14 months old.

When to inform children of a new baby

When planning for a baby, it is up to you when and how much to inform your child about the incoming baby. Another factor is your child’s age.

It can be beneficial to bring up the prospect of a second child very early in the pregnancy, perhaps three to four months before the due date. You might try discussing babies in general before bringing up your new child.

Toddlers don’t fully grasp the concept of time. As a result, when telling your child that a new baby is on the way, attempt to connect it to a previous experience. Saying that the newborn will arrive soon after someone special’s birthday is one example.

Getting kids ready for a new baby

You may encourage your youngster to be excited about their new sibling before the baby is born. You require planning, clear communication, and a great deal of comprehension.

If you can make this time positive and exciting, your child will be more likely to feel that the change affects everyone in the family, not just the new baby. Here are some ideas that may help you:

1. Read stories about babies. Look at pictures and talk to your child about how your family is growing.
2. Show your child pictures of you when they were very young.
3. Let your child touch the baby bump to feel the new baby move and step inside. Even when visiting the doctor or midwife, you could have the baby’s heartbeat listened to.
4. Involve your child in the practical preparation for the new baby. Let them help you prepare your home, and buy and decorate baby items.
5. Talk to your child about what they look forward to most when the new baby arrives.
6. If your child is concerned about the new baby, talk to them about their concerns and reassure them. Give your child lots of love and cuddles and focus on the positive. For example, they will have a new brother or sister to love.

It's also a good idea to give your child an idea of ​​what it’s like to have a new baby in the family:

• If possible, spend some time with friends and their newborns. Your child will see that newborns are very sleepy and need a lot of care.
• Let your child know that the baby will be an independent little person with needs of their own.
• Encourage your child to socialize and play with other children. This will help your child develop the social skills to have a good relationship with a new sibling. Perhaps you can join a playgroup or get other family members—both children and adults—to spend some quality time with your child.

Hospitals, work, childbirth, and other kids

Some parents think about letting their kids see the birth of a new baby. Or perhaps you are thinking about what would be best for your child when contemplating a home birth. It could be helpful to think about the following when you reflect on these things:

• The age of your child
• How to inform your child in advance about the birthing process
• Whether or not you feel at ease with your child
• Whether you agree that your child should be exposed to sexuality and nudity
• Whether another dependable adult could be there to console your youngster if they’re angry or uncomfortable.

During a hospital stay

Here are some ideas to make your child feel comfortable when you and your partner are away for a hospital birth:

• Let your child know who will look after them while they are in the hospital. If your child doesn’t know the caregiver well, it will take time to get used to the idea.
• Print out some family photos for your child to keep near their bed while you and your partner are away.
• Make sure your child’s routines stay the same as much as possible. This will make your child feel safer.
• Keep in touch with your child while you and your partner are away. If the birth went well and everyone is fine, make an appointment to see your child.
• Make your child feel special and loved when they visit you. Tell your child how happy you are to see them.

When the new baby comes home

These ideas can help you get things done when your new baby first comes home:

• Reassure your child with a big loving hug before introducing the new baby for the first time. This is especially important for young children.
• Organize a small gift for your child right from the newborn. Small children may want to get a small doll so they can have a “baby” of their own.
• If family and friends are bringing gifts for the new baby, suggest they bring something small for your child as well.
• Schedule some quality time with your child. This can be a short game outside, some painting or crafting, or a book before bed.