If you’re getting ready to introduce a new baby into your family and already have a toddler, you may be a little concerned and unsure of how to go about the process. The first thing you need to realize is that every family is different. For example, what worked for your sister’s family might not work for your own. Each toddler will handle the addition of a younger sibling differently, so it’s up to you to prepare for that introduction together.
Talk to Your Toddler
The last thing you want is to avoid saying anything to your toddler about pregnancy or the fact that you are going to go away and come home with a new child. Instead, start talking to your toddler about the baby as soon as you feel comfortable with it after confirming that you are indeed expecting. While answering questions about your pregnancy can be tricky at times, do your best to keep your toddler in the know from the very beginning.
Include Your Toddler in Everything You Can
From presenting your toddler with one of the gender reveal shirts you just ordered, to letting them help you set up the nursery and pick out the gifts you’re going to ask for at your baby shower, your little one is going to want to be included. The more you let your toddler help with preparing things for their brother or sister to come home, the more excited they will be to meet the baby when the time comes.
Tell Stories About When Your Toddler was a Baby
It will help your toddler to connect with the idea of a new baby in the house if you tell stories about when he was that age. Tell the story about the night your toddler was born, when he came home from the hospital, and those first days to help him connect and become excited about the new baby.
Give Gifts from the Baby
When your toddler arrives at the hospital or wherever you choose to give birth, have a present waiting for her from the new baby. The baby is going to be getting tons of gifts and all of the attention for quite some time. It’s only natural that your toddler is going to get jealous. Whether it’s toy trucks or an “I’m the big sister” tee-shirt, your toddler will feel included by the new baby and happy to have a present from them as well.
Give Your Toddler a Little Extra Love
A big change is coming for your toddler and no matter how much you prepare them for that change, they will still be worried. Giving them a little extra love will go a long way towards calming their nerves and show them that mama and daddy love them, and the new baby will, too.
These are just a few of the best tips out there for preparing your toddler to meet a new sibling. You just need to let them know that you have enough room in your heart for both of them and the rest will fall into place as well.
