Prepare Your Toddler For The New Baby!

Toddler

oi-Staff

By Super

Friday, October 7, 2011, 12:14

Your toddler is someone who loves to move away from you and explore his surroundings. And, at the same time your toddler is someone who cannot withstand you moving away from him – even for a single moment. This holds true when you are about to or have already welcomed your next child.

A toddler is still too young to understand anything about a sibling. All he knows when he actually sees the baby in mommy's arms is that his mother is not there for him. You will definitely be well prepared to cater to the needs of both toddler and new baby. Prepare your toddler for new baby by following these simple tips.

How to prepare your toddler for new baby?

1.Inform your little one about the new baby's arrival at least 6 months in advance. Explain to her about the new baby's behaviour such as fussing, crying etc.

2.When the baby bumps start to show, your little one should not get baffled. Allow her to touch your belly, let her feel the baby's movements.

3.Get a new crib for the baby if your little one still loves to sleep in her old one. Do not expect her to share her things with the baby. At least when the baby first arrives.

4.Take your toddler along with you for the prenatal check-ups. This way she'll be familiar with the hospital where you'll deliver.

5.While decorating the new baby's room, allow your toddler to help too. Take her help in arranging the crib, selecting baby blankets and pillows. Shop with your child when you are selecting dresses or toys for the newborn. Allow her to pick a few toys. This is one step in creating a bond with the new baby.

6.Finish with toddler essentials such as potty training, weaning from breast-feeding (if she is more that 18 months old) or the feeding bottle.

7.Take her to relatives or friends who have 2 or more children, so that she sees what a larger family is. Allow her to touch or mingle with children younger than her. Remind her to be very gentle.

8.Read her books about babies or siblings caring about babies. If you or your husband have siblings, show her your childhood photos, where you and your siblings are having fun. This way she'll understand that having a new brother or sister is actually fun!

9.Leave her with caretakers or grandparents for short durations. This will help when you are at the hospital for a couple of days during delivery and also when you need some extra time off.

10.Most importantly, do not forget that she is still a baby too. Get her something special and offer it as a gift from her new brother or sister. This is an extra step in reassuring her about the love her new sibling offers.

These are just a few things that can be jotted down as tips to prepare your toddler for new baby. However, the most important thing that you have to remember is that she needs just the same care as you showered on her when she was just the single one. So, share your love among both the babies for a happy family.