We’ve all experienced a bit of “sibling rivalry” at some point in our lives. It is only common for kids to bicker for the attention of their parents. As unbelievable as it may seem, this kind of healthy competition builds a lot of character for kids to use when they grow up.
Yet there will come a point where it has to stop. And when that time comes, you wish you should have been there for your kids a bit more. Explaining to them the value of having a sibling is difficult. But when done at an early age, the effects eventually trickle down when they grow up.
Introducing a New Member of the Family
There will come a time when you have to answer even the most ridiculous questions that your child will have. But before that, he might begin to wonder why your belly is swelling. This might be a good time to have that talk about the “birds and the bees” and his baby brother/sister coming out of your belly.
Then your child will begin to wonder: “What will happen when the baby comes?” This is where you have to be very careful with what you say.
How to Deal with the Changes
It is important that you give your child a more understandable explanation. Here are some tips on how to get your kid acquainted with the possibility of a sibling coming into the family.
-
– Tell it before everyone else
Even before you hear the news that a new baby is on the way, talk with your child about the possibility of having a younger sibling. Tell them how they feel about. Ask them if they would like to be a big brother/sister one day, and have them “oriented” with the tasks of being the older sibling in the family.It is much better if they hear all about this from you. Other people may be a bit blunt with their answers. Kids need something simpler to understand. And who better to provide that than their own parents.
-
-Show baby pictures and videos of your child
It is important to let your child know of what is going to happen when his baby brother/sister comes out. The attention will undoubtedly be shifted. Your child has to understand that this is only natural and that you still love them no matter what.Show him how much attention he used to get. Tell him how people always wanted to get a piece of him when he was a baby. This will give him ease knowing that there is nothing new with what his sibling will be going through in the next couple of months.
-
– Let your child join in on the decision process
This is the first time that your kid will actually be part of the family’s decision-making process. Have him pick out the simple things, like his sibling’s clothes or the color of the crib. This will keep him interested in the possibility of a new playmate.
From the moment that you are trying to conceive, the responsibility of raising a child has already befallen to you and your partner. Even with a new child, never ever forget your first-born. Their welfare is still in your hands, even when a new baby comes in to the family.