I was so worried about preparing Hampton to be a big brother before Sophie-Rae arrived. Looking back, it’s silly because I know now (and I really knew then) that it would take time and experience. However, I still tried to do a few things to prepare him as best I could. He was only 18 months old when she was born, so it was difficult to explain to him that a baby was coming and would be staying. He did get to where he would rub my stomach and say “baby,” but he didn’t fully understand until she was here.
Here are a few tips on how to prepare your toddler for the new baby:
Before the baby gets here:
Read them books about becoming a big brother/sister.
Talk to them about the baby often.
Let them help you set up the nursery and prepare for the baby.
Once the baby gets here:
Let them help with the baby by bringing you diapers/lotion etc.
Spend quality one-on-one time with them every chance you get.
Buy them a special older sibling gift.
Do you have any advice to add? How did you prepare your children for a new sibling?
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