Help Your Child Cope With the New Addition


by Savannah - Date: 2008-10-22 - Word Count: 386 Share This!

It is very common in families for children to feel bummed about the baby on the way. Feelings of resentment, jealousy and unhappiness start to develop as the date gets closer. In some cases your child may feel excited about their new little brother or sister to be born, these feelings may arise after your new baby is delivered. Children often worry that a baby will in some way replace them as mommy's special little girl or boy.


And when your child sees all the attention you're giving to your new baby, she'll become even more concerned. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent your child feeling this way, and help ensure a happy household with your growing family...


Get Your Child Involved
Try to involve your older child in decision making while preparing for the baby like deciding on a name or a nursery theme. It will help your child to see that he/she plays an important roll in the family.


1-On-1 Time
It can be so easy to put aside the one-on-one time when you are preparing for your new baby or when he/she arrives. Of course, the most recent addition to the family will demand a great deal of your time but it is very important to set aside quality time with your other child. Your child really needs your undivided attention every so often. Be sure when you schedule this one-on-one time that you are not holding the baby and have the least amount of interruptions.


Encourage time together
Encouraging your child to spend time with the baby will greatly improve the chances of her accepting her new brother or sister. Sometimes it takes just two or three bonding sessions for feelings of rivalry to be replaced with love and affection. But remember, no matter how well your young child seems to be getting along with your baby, never stop giving that special attention.


Don't expect instant love
Many parents expect their children to instantly fall in love with the newest addition to the family. Although some children do, most kids will take a little while to get used to their baby brother or sister. It's perfectly understandable for them to initially feel indifferent or indeed jealous of the new addition. Be patient and soon you'll be one big happy family.


Related Tags: pregnancy, family, pregnant, big brother, big sister, siblings, coping with new addition


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