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Already have children and expecting another one? How do you plan to prepare your kids for this new bundle of joy? How do you think they are going to react when they discover that most of your attention is transferred onto this new bundle of joy?
Do you think that they will become jealous or resentful? Do you think that they will revert back to their early years, trying to compete for some of that attention? Think again. Children love the idea of a new addition to the family, but once it arrives reality sets in. Children need to feel that they are not being replaced by the baby. They need to feel as though they matter as much as the baby does. And, they need to feel as though the baby belongs to them, too.
To make the transition a little easier, here are some steps to help prepare your youngster for the new addition:
1. Once you find out you are pregnant, let the kids know by taking them out to their favorite restaurant. Tell the kids you are taking them out to dinner as you have something special to share with them; something that has made both you and your spouse very happy.
2. Let your children accompany you to your doctor visits.
a. Allowing them to see mommy’s tummy being measured let’s them experience the growth spurts along with you.
b. Hearing the infant's heartbeat will bring upon a natural bond, between child and baby.
c. Once you have your first official ultrasound, ask for another one. Explaining that you want your kids to see their new sibling as a way of helping them bond is usually the only reason you need for a second ultrasound.
1. After the doctor’s visits, take the kids out for ice cream to celebrate the fact that the baby is healthy and doing well. It doesn’t hurt to throw in there that the kids did very well in the doctor’s office and you are proud of their behavior.
2. Let the kids help you plan the baby shower. They can decide on decorations, invitations, food, design of the cake, and thank you cards. They can even help set up the place by taping decorations to the walls, pouring chips into a bowl, moving furniture around, and even blowing up balloons.
3. Let the kids pick out a very special gift for the baby, just from them. It can be something they already possess, it could be something they make, or it can be something they see in a store. The point is, let them welcome the baby into the world, as well.
4. At the baby shower, have a small gift for each of your children, from their unborn sibling.
5. When your pregnancy has you feeling tired and worn out, let the kids know how you are feeling. Ask them for help around the house; even if it’s only to bring you a glass of water.
6. Secretly make a shirt for each of your children to give to them to wear on the day they go to the hospital to see their newborn sister or brother. The shirt should be long the following lines, with use of their favorite colors:
a. I’m a BIG Brother
b. I’m a BIG Brother Again!!!
c. I’m a BIG Sister
d. I’m a BIG Sister Again!!!
e. I’ve been a little sister, but now I’m a BIG sister!
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