Bringing a new life into your family is an exciting yet somewhat overwhelming time. For parents who already have children, like business professional Kevin Calisher from Ladera Ranch, California, the dynamic often changes and once seasoned pros at parenting find themselves making adjustments along the way.
Depending on the age of your first child, the introduction of a new baby can be a life altering moment. Older children have a better understanding of that to expect after birth, where younger children have had an abstract idea of what having a new baby brother or sister may be like in the future. There are many ways to include an older sibling in the process so he or she does not feel excluded or jealous of the new baby and the attention that he or she is bound to receive.
Explain your older child’s role in the baby’s life. Perhaps your older child can help with feedings or be responsible for assisting with diapers and wipes during changes. Prepare your child for his her or new role and explain its value to you and the baby.
Include your older child in decision making. Perhaps bouncing some baby names around with your first born can be a way he or she feels included. Let him or her help choose nursery colors or favorite songs to sing to the baby.
For parents like Kevin Calisher, being prepared for the birth of your child and the feelings of older siblings is important in the parenting process. Finding what works for you and your family can help shape the relationship your children may grow to have in the future and build a bond for life.
Depending on the age of your first child, the introduction of a new baby can be a life altering moment. Older children have a better understanding of that to expect after birth, where younger children have had an abstract idea of what having a new baby brother or sister may be like in the future. There are many ways to include an older sibling in the process so he or she does not feel excluded or jealous of the new baby and the attention that he or she is bound to receive.
Explain your older child’s role in the baby’s life. Perhaps your older child can help with feedings or be responsible for assisting with diapers and wipes during changes. Prepare your child for his her or new role and explain its value to you and the baby.
Include your older child in decision making. Perhaps bouncing some baby names around with your first born can be a way he or she feels included. Let him or her help choose nursery colors or favorite songs to sing to the baby.
For parents like Kevin Calisher, being prepared for the birth of your child and the feelings of older siblings is important in the parenting process. Finding what works for you and your family can help shape the relationship your children may grow to have in the future and build a bond for life.
