Video:Prepare Siblings for Pregnancy
with Kathy MoorePreparing siblings for a new arrival in the family is a delicate task. Learn how to prepare the whole family for a baby.See Transcript
Transcript:Prepare Siblings for Pregnancy
Hi, I'm Kathy Moore for About.com Parenting. A pregnancy is a big change for the entire family, not just Mom's tummy.This program offers some simple tips on how to prepare your young children for the arrival of a new baby.
Tell Your Children First
When you have decided it is time to share your happy news with the world, tell your kids first. Family and friends will want to talk to your children about it, so make sure they are in the know.Look at Old Baby Photo Albums
As your pregnancy progresses, talk with your kids about when they were babies. Get out photo albums and watch home movies to relive their baby days. Explain to them what the baby will and will not be able to do.Encourage Kids to Talk to the Baby
Later in the pregnancy, you can let the kids feel the movement of the baby. Encourage them to talk, read or sing to the baby.Our kids enjoy helping to think of potential names for the baby and like to try them out and see if the baby kicks when hearing a certain name.
Involve Kids in the Nursery Set Up
Show your kids how large the baby is by comparing it to one of their toy dolls. This really helps them to understand what is going on inside your belly.Involve your kids in the pregnancy and preparations for baby by having them help set up the baby's crib; preview the baby's car seat, toys, or books; and help sort baby clothes.
Read Books With Your Kids
Find some kid's book about becoming a big brother or sister to read with your children.Reading is important to every child's development and books about babies offer a great opportunity to answer questions they might have and gives you a chance to talk about how the family's routine will change.
Give Kids a Small Gift
You might also give the kids a new toy or small gift just before or when the new baby arrives. I found some themed bed sheets for my kids as a way to remind them that they are extra special.Keep Kids Involved
Most kids are eager for the baby to arrive. You can harness that enthusiasm into extra help for you, and a great learning experience for them. Just remember to make it fun, and keep them involved.Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at parenting.about.com.
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