*Prepare your child as much as possible for the upcoming addition. You can read child-friendly books about siblings as well as talk about what life might be like when baby brother or sister joins the family.
*Try not to make any other large life changes simultaneously. Hold off on starting preschool or moving your child from a crib to a bed at the same time. It’s best to make other large transitions at least two months before or after the baby is born.
*Buy a small gift for your older child from the baby. To make life easy, have the gift ready and waiting in your hospital bag so that when your older child comes to visit in the hospital, the baby can give it to him/her.
*Give your older child some “jobs” to do to help him/her feel involved. He/she can grab diapers, help pick out books to read, sing songs, etc…
*Create a quiet time basket full of special goodies that will entertain your older child when you’re trying to feed the baby or put the baby down for a nap. The key is to use the quiet time basket sparingly so that your child stays interested by the toys inside.
*Discuss the advantages to being the big kid in the house. Things like playing with friends, eating ice cream or going to the park.
*Try to keep your older child’s schedule and routine in place as much as possible. Children thrive with consistency. Structure helps toddlers and preschoolers feel safe and secure.
If your baby or toddler is not getting the sleep he/she needs and you are interested in learning more about the supportive sleep solutions that Rest Well Baby offers, please contact Tracie at: [email protected] to schedule a FREE 15 minute call to learn more about her professional sleep services.
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