How to Prepare a Toddler for a Newborn Sibling

What toddler doesn't like a present? Get your toddler ready for the new addition to your family by teaching him about babies and making him feel comfortable. Focus on what the baby will look like and what she will do--eat and sleep. Keep your toddler feeling secure and involved, before and after the baby is born.

Instructions

1. Enroll your toddler in a sibling class offered at the hospital. Many hospitals offer a class for toddlers and other siblings to prepare for baby's arrival. Your toddler will learn about baby care, and what to expect once the baby is home.

2. Talk to your toddler about when he or she was born. Show him photos of his birth, his first bath, his feeding and being held by others. Tell him that when his new sibling arrives he will be able to help with these tasks.

3. Help your toddler adjust to the baby's sleeping arrangements well in advance of the birth. Put the baby's room together including crib and bedding so your toddler can see where she will sleep. Add a photo of your toddler to the room so he can be a part of the baby's room.

4. Let your toddler go to a prenatal visits so he can understand why you are going to the hospital. Explain that the doctor makes sure you and the baby are okay. Take your toddler to an ultrasound appointment so he can see the baby. Don't expect very young children to understand this is a picture of the baby unless you are having a 3-D ultrasound which is easier to distinguish.

5. Have your toddler talk to the baby in your tummy. Have him sing songs or say the alphabet. Anything he wants to get him used to speaking with the baby before he or she is born.

6. Prepare children under the age of 18 months by showing them pictures of a baby and relating that to your growing stomach. Take them to visit with other babies and read them books about new babies. Younger children will not grasp the concept completely, but you can help them prepare by getting them accustom to a baby.

7. Explain the importance of being a "big brother" or "big sister" to your toddler. Children above the age of two take pride in responsibility and will relish the chance at being the helper. Plan to include your toddler in as many care aspects with the baby as you can. Let him help change, bathe or feed baby with your help.

8. Approach your due date with as much routine as possible. Keep your toddler's routine as normal as you can to keep him comfortable. When you're at the hospital include your toddler by letting her visit. It's also a nice idea to have a small gift for the "baby" to give to your toddler after he is born.

Tips & Warnings

• Once baby arrives, spend time with just you and your toddler to lessen feelings of jealousy.