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And Then There Were Two
Helping Toddlers Become Older Siblings
By Gina Roberts-Grey, LCSW
Bringing home a new baby is a wonderful and joyous event. After all the months of planning and preparation it is exhilarating to finally have your new baby home. This heightened elation can often be mixed with uneasiness over how to introduce your new baby to his older sibling. Your older "baby" or young toddler will experience understandable confusion, jealousy and anxiety at the arrival of a new brother or sister.
Many wonder when and how to begin to prepare a child for his anticipated sibling. Parents question at what ages and stages young children begin to realize their world is changing. There are several proven ways to begin preparing him for the introduction to his family's newest member.
Giving your child the chance to adjust to his surroundings and to the impending changes will aid in the transition from only or youngest child to big brother, as well as make the birth of your new baby memorable. Very young children are not aware of what the future holds for them as a big brother or sister. They do not have a clear concept of what a sibling is, nor are they conscious of sibling rivalry.
Conversely, they are, however, acutely aware of changes in their parents. Children as young as 6 months old can sense the common signs of lack of energy, the effects of morning sickness or Mom's inability to be as active in the last trimester. Because they haven't developed their language skills babies can't verbally express their feelings.
As pregnancy progresses there are many ways for parents to alleviate some tension babies have due to the changes. If you were always very active together, try spending as much time together doing different activities. Replace running numerous errands with building cities out of building blocks or looking through books together. Take the time you would allot for sharing long jogs in the park to enjoy a picnic or a walk around a local museum. Your toddler will enjoy the stimulation as well as the quality time spent with Mom.
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