-
Step 1
Prepare your child before his or her new sibling arrives. Let her feel your tummy and look at the sonogram pictures if you're pregnant, or show pictures of the new sibling if you're adopting. Encourage your child to talk to your tummy or read stories to the baby's pictures if adopting.
-
Step 2
Tell him about all the care and attention you put into him when he was a baby. Show him pictures of when he was a baby and tell him about what you're going to have to do to care for his new sibling.
-
Step 3
Let your child help decorate the sibling's new room. He can help pick the colors or the theme. Involve your child in the painting or the decorating to prepare for the new sibling.
-
Step 4
Involve your firstborn in baby duty. Let him help bring you the wipes, the diapers or entertain his new sibling while you cook or clean. If she is crying, he can help pat her back.
-
Step 5
Give your older child plenty of attention and alone time when you're able. Occasionally have someone watch the new baby while you take her out by herself.
-
Step 6
Realize that any aggression your child shows toward the new sibling is normal. It's very difficult to witness this but it doesn't make your child "bad." Let him know that it's okay to be jealous or angry but it's not okay to act out on those feelings. Place him on a timeout until he gets his emotions under control.
