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Sibling Rivalry? Introducing New baby |
The days following the birth of a new baby can be busy and full of excitement. This often leads to siblings feeling somewhat left out and neglected. They can be confused or upset over their mother’s hospitalization or not understand why she is tired and cannot play as much as usual. These feelings are only amplified by feelings of jealousy over why the new baby is receiving so much attention. This is why it is so very important for parents to find ways to reassure siblings that they’re loved and valued and to help them come to terms with the fact that there is another member of the family who also needs care.
There are ways to minimize this transition to help soothe older children and make them feel more a part of things during the first few months at home with the new baby:
Prepare older children in advance of the birth. Get them excited about the event, and have them be active participants in preparing the nursery.
Have the siblings visit the new baby and mum in the hospital.
Have special gifts for the siblings that are “from the baby.”
Dedicate some time every day to be alone with each sibling.
When taking photos of the baby, also take some of the siblings.
Ask grandparents or other close relatives to spend special time with the siblings – perhaps a special outing to the park, zoo or out to lunch.
Have your siblings pitch in with caring for the baby.
Stay positive, and understand that a new baby is also a big transition for your older children.
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