Having a new baby in the family can be hard on brothers and sisters. Here are some tips for easing the transition if you have other children:
Try to spend some time alone with each child.
If both of your children need you at the same time, consider taking care of the older child first. The baby's feelings will not be hurt if made to wait.
Use feeling words with your older children so that they can express their emotions. For example, saying something like "I can see that you are disappointed that Daddy can't read to you now" will help your older child learn to recognize his or her feelings.
Allow your older children to help care for the new baby -- bringing diapers, putting on lotion, etc.
Talk to your new baby about his or her older siblings. You may want to say something to make your older child feel special, like "You are so lucky to have a brother who can teach you how to walk."
Interpret the baby's actions in a positive way. For example, "See how the baby is smiling at you. She likes you talking to her."
Praise your older child's good behavior.
Tell your children that you love them many times a day.
Keep taking photographs of your older children by themselves rather than only focusing on the new baby.
Let the older children hear you telling another adult how much you appreciate them.
Don't be surprised if your older children regress or act immature for their age. This may be their way of asking for the kind of love you are giving the baby.
