How to Introduce a New Baby to Another Child

How to introduce a new baby to another sibling.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 
   Bottle

   Bringing home a new baby is a joyful experience. However, sometimes the new baby is not immediately accepted by another child or sibling. This problem is common when the sibling at home is an only child until the new baby arrives. The older child is used to receiving undivided attention from both parents and may find it hard making the transition accepting a new brother or sister. This is where some excellent parenting skills are required.

2. 
   Bassinet

   The way to handle the situation can be very simple. First, as soon as you bring the new baby home you must have a discussion with your other child. It would help to explain that the other child is loved by both parents very much. Even small children are capable of understanding the need of the baby for complete care and attention. It is good idea to allow the other child to participate in the care of the new baby.

3. 
   Diaper

   Possibly the other child can help mom with the baby's bottle and help with the changing of diapers. As long as you include the older child at all times and assure them that even though the baby needs a great deal of care, you love the other child just the same. Children can accept the new baby more quickly if the parents have this little talk as soon a possible. Jealousy only occurs when the other sibling feels ignored or unloved.

Tips & Warnings

• Until the parent is confident the other child has accepted the new baby; it would be a good idea to keep your eye on the other child especially when they attempt to enter the baby's room alone.