How to Introduce Your Firstborn to Your New Baby

Having a new baby is exciting for any parents, but your firstborn may not be so thrilled about the prospect of no longer being the baby of the family. When it comes time to introduce the new siblings, a little preparation will go a long way toward making the meeting a positive event, and following up with a few smart strategies will help cement the bond. Many older siblings will be very excited to meet a new baby, but be prepared for other reactions as well and try not to be disappointed if your oldest is indifferent or even angry.

Instructions

    • 1

      Involve your child in your pregnancy. Before the baby is even born, take your firstborn with you to doctor's appointments, ultrasounds and especially to fun events like your baby shower so she feels included and excited about the new baby.

    • 2

      Plan reliable and trusted child care for your firstborn during the birth of the new baby. If your older child has never spent the night away from you, plan a sleepover or extended visit with the child care provider before the birth to get her used to the idea. While your new baby may be born during the daytime, you may need to stay in the hospital for a night or two after the birth and you don't want your older child to feel upset or abandoned.

    • 3

      Purchase a gift for your firstborn to give to the new baby after the birth. Also purchase a gift for your older child as a special or big sister present.

    • 4

      Invite your child to come visit you and the new baby as soon as possible after the birth of the new baby. Ask the care provider to bring your child to the hospital or birth center after the baby is born and have her give the baby the gift she chose.

    • 5

      Allow your oldest to hold the new baby when she is visiting. Help her support the baby's head and keep the baby safe, but do let the older child have a few moments to be meet her new sibling and begin to form a bond. Older children can even help change a diaper or help get the baby dressed. Likewise, ask someone else to hold the baby so you can snuggle your older child, read her a story or play a game with her while she is visiting you.

    • 6

      Allow your older child to participate in choosing a going home outfit and be sure she is present when the family goes home together for the first time. Consider asking your older child to help make a birthday cake for the baby and then surprising her with a big sister cake as well.

    • 7

      Encourage visitors to bring a small gift for the older child if they are bringing a gift for the new baby. Also make sure visitors interact with your older child and don't just gush over the baby.

    • 8

      Spend plenty of time with your firstborn. It can be tempting to pass her off to willing relatives who want to help you get sleep or time to yourself, but your oldest needs to know that she is still important to you. Let well-meaning family help with the dishes and laundry so that you have more time to focus on both of your babies.

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