Who doesn’t get jealous when their love and attention are going to be shared with someone else? From the little one to the grown-up adult, all of us will feel this tiny bit of jealousy. This applies to our first, second born as well – when they have a new baby brother or sister. They have this very sharp instinct that can sense your changes. After all, your older kid, especially the firstborn is your first love where you shower them with all your love, time, attention, and many other things. In a way of helping them to adjust with the new changes, you should give them reassurance about your love and care. Do also give them the opportunity to talk about their feelings and emotions.
Take a look at some of the guideline that you can take to smooth their transition.
Explain to your child
It is a must for him to know about his new little sibling so that your child does not feel being replaced. You can tell him that you plan to have another baby so that your child will not feel lonely and he can have someone to play with everyday.
Talk about the nearest sibling success
You can put yourself as an example for your child. Tell them how friendly you and your brother are. Tell her that how helpful your brother was and how much he loved you. Share with your child the sweet memories of you playing or helping each other since small. You can tell him that you wanted him to have the same lovely relationship with his brother or sister.
Reassure the love
A new sibling won’t take away the love that you have on your older child. Talk and explain to him that all the love you have towards him will never change. He will always be the first and most loved one. Make sure he knows that you and your partner will treat, care and love all siblings the same.
Justify the emotions
The older child often feel left out once the new baby arrives. Well, its true. So just tell him this exact thing. At the same time, teach him that if he ever feels so once the little baby arrives, assures him to express his emotion.
For example, if they need your attention, you can ask them to say “I feel left out” or “I need attention”. Make them believe that once they say the phrase, you will give them extra hugs until they feel better. By allowing him to establish his feeling, it will help in reducing their thought of protest and throwing tantrums, and it will surely help him to adjust to the situation.
His past baby photos
If you have his baby photos, why not show him the pictures? Explain to him through the picture that you once cared him the same way (and will always do so!). Now the soon-to-be-born baby needs to be taken care of the same way as the baby is still small and fragile. This will help the older child to understand your future activities with the little baby.
He can help
Talk to him that he can help you to take the diapers for the little sibling while you are feeding the newborn. He can sit by your side and watching you taking care of the little baby, or even read both of them a story! Don’t forget to accept his request as well. Maybe he wants to do or play something else. Make sure he notices that you are watching and supporting him although you are busy with the new little baby. Assure him that you are a team and work well together!
Reaction toward a new member in a family is a normal thing that you will see on your children no matter how old they are. It is your duty in prepare them to adjust with the newborn by developing a partnership and have an open communication. This will surely help them to adjust the new comer and you can build a wondrous family together.
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