How to Introduce Your Child to a New Sibling

Introducing a New Sibling

Is there anything more special than the bond between siblings? When siblings have a good relationship, it can result in a lifelong friendship and invaluable support. Get your children’s friendship off to the right start with these tips from Center for Vasectomy Reversal on how to introduce your child to a new sibling.

Getting Ready for Baby

Telling your child about the impending arrival of a sibling should happen well before the baby is born. As a rule of thumb, it is good to tell your older child about the baby as soon as mom begins to show. In some cases, if there is morning sickness that might worry the child, for example, it might be wise to announce the news earlier. If your family is adopting or using a surrogate, it is also wise to start the conversation early. The more time your child has to adjust to the idea, the better. When you talk about the new little brother or sister, talk about the good things about having a new baby, but also let your child know that babies need a lot of help in the beginning. Talk about how much fun it will be to have a younger sibling, without overselling. Talk about what life will be like with a new baby, and help your child feel a sense of ownership when it comes to the new little one. Encourage your child to talk to your baby bump, feel when the baby kicks, and think about what it will mean to be an older sibling. It can be helpful to read age-appropriate books about babies and birth, or look into a sibling birth class at the hospital.

Making Plans for the Birth

If your older child will need to change rooms to make space for the new baby, make sure you make this transition well in advance of the birth. The same applies to any other major transitions, like potty training or moving from a crib to a bed. Make arrangements for your older child’s care while you are in the hospital, but try to arrange a visit with the new baby as quickly as possible, while you are still in the hospital. Let the child meet his or her new sibling with the baby in the bassinet, to avoid any feelings of jealousy because the baby is being held by mom or dad. Consider getting a small gift for your older child “from the baby” to make that first meeting as warm as possible. Manage your expectations about your child’s reaction; some children will be enthusiastic, and others will be unimpressed. Arrange for one parent to spend some special one on one time with your older child right after this first meeting.

The Homecoming

Once you bring the new baby home, you will need to give your older child some assistance in adjusting to the changes. As much as is possible, let the older sibling help care for the new little family member. “Helping” will mean different things, depending on the age of the older child, but you can find something for your child to do, whether it’s entertaining the baby during a diaper change, helping to push the stroller, or helping to dress or bathe the baby. If your child is not interested in helping, do not force it. Remember, bonding is a natural process and will happen gradually. Try to set aside time each day to spend with your older child, but keep the daily routine as normal as possible, including school or daycare if that’s the norm.

Helping to Manage Feelings

Sometimes, children don’t take to being an older sibling easily. Your older child may struggle with his or her new role in the family. Encourage conversation about the new baby, and be patient. If your child acts out or seems to regress, understand that this may be a way of seeking attention. Offer reassurance of your child’s special place in the family. Adjusting to the new normal may take some time, and if you are having trouble helping your child, consider asking your pediatrician for advice.

Start Your Family with Help from Center for Vasectomy Reversal

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.