JAC's Top 5: How to prepare your toddler for a new sibling
A few ways you can help them prepare to be the older brother or sister.
JAC's Top 5:
The arrival of a new baby into the family is the most exciting thing. However, what happens when there is a small child who is soon to be the older sibling?
Here are a few ways you can help them prepare to be the older brother or sister.
1. Encourage them to bond with their sibling through listening to your belly
By doing so you get them used to knowing that they have a sibling on the way. You can even encourage them to talk to them or sing to the baby just to add a little fun.
2. Tell them stories about having a new baby sibling
Some storybooks narrate the joys of being an older brother or sister. Once they hear about all the wonderful things they get to do as the older sibling, they will most likely look forward to the baby’s arrival.
3. Allow them to help
Get them involved in the baby’s nursery, shopping for the baby or maybe just picking out a few things in preparation for the baby.
4. Baby gifts
Baby will receive loads of gifts when they arrive, so try not to open them all in front of their older sibling.
5. Explain every little thing
In most cases, you find the toddlers are curious, but you can help with explaining why the baby does this or that. For example, if the baby is crying, you can try and explain to the toddler why the baby is crying. Or you can simply explain what the big brother/sister duties are to create a positive association.
