How to Prepare your Toddler for a New Baby

It takes more than just a conversation to prepare a toddler for a new member of the family. Here are some ways to prepare them and communicate to them their new role as big sibling.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Buy a baby doll for your child and include the doll in your daily tasks of changing diapers, putting to bed, taking naps, etc. It won't be such a big shock when a new baby takes it's place--same routine, 'real' baby.

2. Buy a toddler bed early on in your pregnancy, so that your toddler doesn't feel 'kicked out' of his or her crib by the new addition. Make it exciting for them and have them pick out their new bedding to make them feel like they were a part of the decision.

3. There are many books out there now on new babies and their older siblings, so hit up the library and tell your toddler some stories about what it means to have a new baby in the house. The real life transition won't seem so scary once they've already read about it in their favorite books.

4. Go ahead and simply tell them that mama has a little baby in her belly. Toddlers understand much more than we realize and on some level they do 'get it.' Remind them now and then and let them hug and kiss mama's tummy. It is never too early to start a loving sibling relationship.

5. Expose your child to other newborns. Take them visiting friends with new babies and let them observe and greet the baby. Of course, they can touch only if the new parents are comfortable with that, and only after washing their hands.

6. Enlist their help when the baby arrives! Children love being mama's little helper--it makes them feel important and responsible. Even the youngest toddlers can hand you a clean wipe, help you shush the baby to sleep, and pick out the baby's outfit for the day. These are great little tasks that will help them feel included.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't shy away from buying a baby doll for your male toddler. Boys have a nurturing side, too, and can learn to love and care for a child just as much as a girl can. You are raising your future grandchildren's father, after all!
• This should go without saying, but never leave a toddler alone in a room with a baby. They may think they're being helpful in putting a blanket over the baby's face or trying to 'help' the baby out of the swing. Keep your eye on those two! Plenty of time for shenanigans as they get older.
• Remember to scrub your toddlers hands before they hold or touch the baby, especially those first few weeks. Toddlers are germy and the last thing you want to be dealing with is a sick baby.

[flor2729]

on 1/11/2009 This is a very good article. Excellent, great ways to prepare your toddler for new baby.