“We’re expecting a new baby! What do we have to do next?”
“Should we start potty training them before the baby comes and when?”
“We need your help on how to get started!”
One of the most common topics that I support parents with is how to prepare their toddler, or young child for the new baby. There are so many questions to consider and changes that occur when you are preparing for two kids. I have compiled a list of some strategies to help you prepare your child for the new baby over the next 9 months.
9-7 Months Away:
-Discuss with your partner the expected changes that will occur within your lives with the addition of the baby. This includes work schedules, caregiving roles, and divisions of labor, to name a few. A great book that discusses the the divisions of labor is Fair Play: A Game-Changing Solution for When You Have Too Much to Do (and More Life to Live).
-Discuss your paternity and maternity leave plans.
-Explore your finances, as well as caregiving needs, such as whether your child will need a daycare, nanny, or if one of you chooses to stay-at-home as their caregiver.
4-6 Months Away:
-If you are planning on making any big changes, now is the time. Common big changes include: changing rooms, transitioning to a toddler bed, potty training, and starting preschool.
-Help your child practice being gentle with the baby by practicing with a baby doll, or stuffed animal. They can role play the way you would take care of the baby, such as by feeding them, or changing their diaper.
-Visit friends with babies to see how they interact around other babies. Are they scared, shy, or warm?
-Help them practice waiting their turn and sharing toys with others.
2-3 Months Away:
-Show them baby pics of when they were a baby and talk about how they were once young.
-Start reading books on preparing to be a big sibling, such as Daniel Tiger Neighborhood- The Baby is Here. I have included a list of other baby books below.
-Watch the Daniel Tiger episodes on preparing for the new baby, such as Daniel Learns About Being a Big Brother here.
-Have them help choose items for the baby, such as onesies, while shopping.
1 Month Away:
-Create a special basket with toys that are reserved for when the baby is breastfeeding, or bottle feeding.
-If childcare is needed for the arrival of the baby, have a few practice sessions with the caregiver (e.g. mother-in-law, or nanny) in advance of the due date.
1 Week Away:
-Discuss the hospital plan to your child and what to expect, such as how many days you will be gone.
Introduction to Baby:
-If your child is anxious, or highly sensitive try to make sure they are in a comfortable setting when meeting the baby. This includes being fed, and well-rested.
-Give a gift from the baby.
-If they are slow-to-warm up make sure to follow their pace when meeting the baby.
I hope these strategies help you as you prepare for your new baby. Please feel free to book a parent coaching session to go over these strategies in session.
Books
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