How to Help Siblings Transition to a New Baby in the Family

Sometimes it is so hard on little ones when there is a new baby in the family.  They have gotten used to being the one that gets all the attention and now there is someone else that has most likely stolen the show.   Preparing ahead of time can help your little tike transition more quickly and easily into being a big brother or sister.  Here are some tips on helping siblings thrive as your accept a new baby into the family.

• Consider a Special Gift – Since baby is often mommy and daddy’s special gift, your little one has a need to continue to feel special too.  Consider doing some shopping before the birth so that your little one can receive something special the first time they meet the new baby.  Even though it is important that little ones know real love instead of getting things to show love some times even a very small gift can help a child know that you are thinking about them and not just the new little bundle.
• Talk Lots about Baby Coming Prior to their Arrival – The more you can encourage babies to be involved in your pregnancy the more it will help prepare them for a new life in the house.  Have them talk to the baby in your belly, tell them I love you, and talk about how they can help once the baby is born.
• Make a Fuss Over Big Brother or Big Sister – If your little one is a tot or even older they often like to help.  It makes them feel grown up and older when mommy or daddy ask them to help with things that help the baby.  If they can feel involved in the transition it will give them more of a sense of family belonging.  Ask your little one  to get diapers, burp cloths, and even clothes; if they can reach them.  Tell them how big they are and what a great helper.  Remind them of all the things they can teach baby and allow them to hold baby (with your supervision of course).
• Take One-on-one time – Even though it can be a lot of work to have a new little one.  It is so important to show the older sibling how special they are.  Find time that you can do things together, or have daddy take the sibling on a special date.  Make a conscious decision to show them how special they are and that life isn’t suddenly just all about baby.
• Be Patient – You are always tired with a new little one, but patience is the key.  If your older sibling throws a fit try to be patient with them.  It will take some time but they will transition to the new lifestyle.  Just make sure that you keep an eye on your little one so they don’t lash out on the baby.  Not always, but sometimes older children get jealous and can take it out on their new baby brother.  Remember that they don’t have the capacity to understand all that is happening yet or vocalizing their feelings.  Help them to put some of their feelings into words by asking them questions about their new brother or sister.