Operation Lactation

When welcoming your second, third, fourth, fifth (you get the idea) child into the world there are some new things to consider. Along with their parents, big brothers and sisters are in for a big transition. I have witnessed many kids as they meet the newest member of the family, and the reactions greatly vary. I am not sure there is a way to predict the reaction, but I do think that there are some ways to ease the transition and prepare older siblings for the newest addition.

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I think that books are a great resource at any age. Reading a story to a child to introduce the concept of a baby may help prepare a young mind for what is to come. There are many children's books out there, but the one that comes to mind is The New Baby by Mercer Mayer. A picture book will serve as a tool to help a child actually see what it is like to have a baby in the house.

Another way to teach siblings about a new baby is to practice with a baby doll. The concept of "gentle" can be a challenge, especially for young children. It will be less stressful to teach a little one how to be gentle with a doll rather than waiting until the new baby has arrived. Big brother/sister can practice touching, holding, and maybe even diaper changing. We have a dog and when I have "Baby Faux" (she made her first appearance in Positions: Part 1) out we practice with Perry how to be gentle with the baby. Time will only tell if it was helpful.

I have seen the magical response a newborn has to a familiar voice. Encourage siblings to talk and sing to baby while you are pregnant, and you can be witness to the power of that voice when baby is born. When I see baby responding to someone's voice, I deliberately point it out because I believe it is reassuring and empowering to know how baby positively responds.

Some kids really like to help and be involved. Try coming up with baby care tasks that they can do. One idea I heard was putting together a diaper bag for big sibling to be in charge of, and when baby needs a diaper change it is his/her job to get the bag. Something like this may foster a sense of responsibility and pride for your little one - and heck, it will help you!

A wiggly toddler can pose a challenge to a mother breastfeeding a new baby so being prepared can make a big difference. You could put together a collection of toys/activities that are only to be used when breastfeeding. It could also be a time when a favorite show or movie could be enjoyed. Hopefully, big brother/sister will see the time momma needs to feed baby as a time for fun.

One last successful tip is presenting big brother/sister with a small gift from the new baby. When my cousin delivered twin boys, they brought their big sister a little trinket. It amazed me how often she would bring it up, and the impression was lasting. I guess it is a very physical and real way for a new big brother/sister to understand that the new baby brings joy.

If you have other tips and tricks, please comment below!

Peace, joy and blessings!