Many kids clamor for a younger sibling but find it difficult to cope when the spotlight is taken away from them. It can be stressful for kids when they have to share their parent’s attention with another child. You can help reduce this stress in so many ways. Here are a few:
- Younger kids may not express their feelings about the situation but show it through their actions. You can take advantage of this and help them understand what is happening through play.
- You can also encourage the toddler to practice taking care of a toy like a baby. It does not have to be a doll; it can be a truck or even a stuffed animal. Diaper a doll together and find out if there are special classes in the hospital for such kids.
- There may be some negative reaction when the new baby comes, but try not to be upset. The older child may also begin to cry a lot and require more attention. Don’t let this get to you. Give him attention and hug him all the time. Let him know that he is special and will always be.
- Remember that kids fear that they will be neglected when a younger one comes, so let them know that someone will care for them while you’re away to have the baby. Plan fun activities to do when you get back.