PREPARE YOUR LOVED ONES FOR THE NEW BABY (As seen in www.lafamily.com)

Now that you’re pregnant, all the attention has shifted to you.  Some people may feel left behind. Your husband is probably one of these people.  He feels the weight of the responsibility, but lost the attention he once received.

 What about the rest of your children?  They hear all the excitement about this new baby, and are no longer the center- of- attention.  This can be frightening, when you are little or big!

 Bringing home a new baby is a joyful experience, but it has its challenges, particularly for siblings and even your pets.  Young children may feel “replaced” by the new baby.  Pets don’t understand who this tiny creature is that is getting all the attention.  Here are some tips on how to create a welcoming environment for the new baby, while helping everybody adjust.

 Your significant other:

Words do help a great deal, yet, actions speak louder then words…take extra time to show the people around you, your true love for them.  Praise your husband daily for something he has done.  Write him a note, and place it somewhere where he can find it when he is alone.  Tell him how extraordinary he is, and how he will remain important in your life.  Once the baby comes home, try to arrange a romantic date at least once every two weeks.  A nice walk, or a candle lit dinner, can make a huge difference in your relationship.

 Siblings:

Write a note to your child as well, and tell them how special they are to you.  If they cannot read yet, draw a picture on a piece of paper with a phrase like “you are special to me” and put it somewhere they can find it.  We are all sticklers for something in writing. 

 If you are birthing at the hospital, bring your children to visit “mommy and baby” as soon as possible.  This will make your child feel included, and not “left out” or “abandoned” with a baby sitter or a relative.

 Include your child in all baby care activities.  Teach your child to help changing diapers, and let them help you bathe the baby.    This will help to establish a connection between the two siblings.

 Make sure you schedule exclusive “mommy-time” with your older children, so they feel you still have time for them.   This is perhaps the most important action you can take to restore self-confidence and self-importance to your children. 

Pets:

Allow your pet to familiarize itself with the baby’s scent before you bring the baby home, it will be less curious about the new creature. 

If your dog or cat comes over to you while you are holding the baby, pet them, so they know not to feel jealous of the new baby.  Pets are supersensitive; and can feel withdrawn and jealous if you ignore them. 

 Don’t forget about your self either!  Spend quality time alone, soaking in a hot bath, reading your favorite book, or chat with a friend…while someone else takes care of everything!