How to introduce a new baby to older siblings

Introducing a new baby to older siblings can be a big adjustment for everyone involved. Here are some tips from parents to help make the transition smoother and ensure older children don’t feel left out:

1. Prepare them in advance: Before the baby arrives, talk to your older children about what to expect. Explain that a new sibling is coming and involve them in age-appropriate discussions about where babies come from and what it means to be an older brother or sister. Books are a great way to do this
2. Include them in preparations: Involve your older children in getting ready for the new baby. Let them help choose baby items, set up the nursery, or even pick out some baby clothes. This will make them feel like an important part of the process.
3. Reassure their importance: Remind your older children how special they are and that the new baby doesn’t replace them. Emphasise that your love for them remains unchanged and that your heart just expands to love the new baby too.
4. Gift exchange: Consider having the new baby “give” a gift to their older siblings and vice versa. This can create a sense of connection and excitement between them.
5. Spend quality time together: Amidst the demands of caring for a newborn, make sure to carve out one-on-one time with your older children. Even 15 minutes playing their favourite game, reading a book, or simply having a chat helps reinforce their importance and helps them feel loved.
6. Involve them in baby care: Depending on their age, involve your older children in simple baby care tasks under your supervision. For example, they can help with nappy changes (passing you a nappy or wipes), sing a lullaby to the baby, or show them baby toys or books. Remind them to use kind, gentle hands whenever they interact with the baby
7. Create new family routines: Establish new family routines that involve all members, such as story time for everyone before bedtime or a special family breakfast on weekends. This helps create a sense of togetherness.
8. Celebrate their achievements: When your older children show affection or care towards the baby, praise and celebrate their actions. Positive reinforcement can encourage more positive interactions.
9. Encourage expression of feelings: Let your older children express their feelings, whether it’s excitement, jealousy, or frustration. Acknowledge their emotions without telling them off, show them you understand and assure them it’s normal to feel that way.
10. Avoid comparisons: Refrain from comparing your older children to the new baby or each other. Each child is unique and should be appreciated for their individuality.
11. Maintain routines: Try to maintain some of the existing routines and activities that your older children enjoy. This will provide them with a sense of stability during this time of change.
12. Seek help from others: If possible, enlist the help of friends, family, or babysitters to spend quality time with the older children. This gives you a chance to focus on the baby while ensuring your older kids still get attention and care.

Remember, the transition may take time, and each child will react differently. Be patient and understanding as they adjust to their new roles as older siblings. With love, support, and attention, you can help them feel secure and loved in the family’s new dynamic.

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