Last month over on Instagram, we explored tips and resources for one of the biggest changes in a child’s life: welcoming a new baby to the family! Let’s take a look at the ways that you can support your little one by preparing for the changes and building excitement, all while celebrating the special big sibling role.
Missed our videos on welcoming a new sibling? Catch up here.
What’s going on?!
For children welcoming a new sibling, the world can suddenly seem completely different. Imagine: you’re told that your routine is going to change, your family is growing, and your caregivers will have someone new to look after. Life will never be the same!
It’s no surprise that even the most excited of big siblings might start behaving differently. Perhaps they’ll appear to ‘regress’ – for instance, going back on their potty training when they’re out of nappies, or crying more frequently.
Why do children need support at this exciting time?
It’s essential during times of change – and this is a huge change – to help your child feel secure and loved.
A young child might feel that they’re being ‘replaced’ by anew baby, or crave the attention that they think the baby will get instead of them. They may feel confused or worried about what is happening, such as Mummy going to the hospital, or why the baby is crying.
All in all, this happy time can actually be very overwhelming, especially for younger children, so they’ll need to feel valued and reassured.
So, how can we help?
Before the arrival…
- Build excitement. Whenever you’re speaking about the new baby, use an enthusiastic tone and excited body language, to reinforce that this is a happy change! Sharing books and stories with your child can also help to build a sense of excitement, while offering them opportunities to ask questions. Check out our book recommendations for growing families over on our Instagram.
- Start transitions early. Don’t forget, if you’re planning to introduce some changes into your child’s routine – for instance, adapting their nap times – it’s best to do this before the new baby arrives! That way, your child won’t associate the baby’s arrival with change and disruption, and they’ll be ready for the new schedule when their sibling is here.
- Engage in imaginative play. Role play is a great way to prepare your child for their new sibling’s arrival. Allowing them to act out scenarios related to a baby sibling builds empathy while helping them to explore what being a big sibling is like. You could give your child a new doll or teddy to play with and care for, modelling gentle ways to touch, hold and cuddle the ‘baby’.
Once the baby’s here…
- Create positive associations. Allow your child to pick a present for the new baby, and also have a little something from the new baby to ‘gift’ to your child. This is a simple strategy for helping your child to feel valued and included as they welcome the new sibling, creating positive associations with the baby.
- Let your child lend a helping hand. Children love taking on a role, so giving them a responsibility can help them feel involved. You could let them carry the baby’s blanket or towel, or help you set up the baby area. Choose small, child-friendly tasks which include the big sibling without any pressure, and express how proud of them you are!
- Expect a range of emotions. When the baby’s here, it’s totally normal if your child shows a mix of emotions, such as confusion, worry or even jealousy. The most important thing is to let your child know you’re there for them. Reassure and comfort them, spending quality time both together as a family and alone with your child. If any regressive or negative behaviours arise, remember that this is a temporary response – praise their positive behaviours and know that this will pass!
Every change comes with its challenges, but with just a little preparation and inspiration from these tips, you and your family can look forward to this special time together.
Congratulations from all of us here at MEplace! 💕
