That’s so awesome! You’re pregnant again! Being pregnant when you already have one (or more) kids is totally different. The peace and quiet you were able to enjoy with your first is much harder to come by! How do you involve your other kids in the pregnancy? What do you do leading up to the birth? In this blog, we’ll give you some tips and tricks!
1. Using a book about what's going to happen. For example, “Little Fluff” or “Bobbi Is Going to Be a Big Brother.”.
2. Involve when choosing baby items. For example, the baby's first outfit.
3. Have them prepare a little gift figure out or make a little craft project that they can give to the baby.
4. Take them to the inspections! This is a tough one… Right now, this isn't possible because of COVID-19. But once we've got that virus under control, we hope we'll be able to let lots of kids press the button again to listen to the little heart!
5. Think carefully about what you want to do with the other children around the childbirth. Discuss this thoroughly in advance so they know what to expect. Options include:
- They let you sleep during a home birth. But if you wake up, make sure you have neighbors, friends, or family on hand to call!
- Are your children having trouble sleeping, or does their presence make you feel restless? Send them away or have someone pick them up! This will give you a lot of peace of mind, allowing you to get into the “flow” of labor more easily.
- Do you want to or need to go to the hospital? Arrange for a babysitter, whether at home or elsewhere. In case things happen quickly or it becomes urgent, it’s always helpful to have a “close to home” option as well!
- There are also people who want their children to be present during childbirth. Of course, that’s possible too! Be sure to discuss this thoroughly in advance with each other, the children, and us.
6. For the first introduction, place the baby in the crib. That way, you can take your time giving the other kids a hug before introducing the baby.
7. Be honest! Not everything about a baby is fun. We all know that! Take the crying and all the attention the baby will get, for example. Discuss this beforehand and again once the baby arrives.
8. During the postpartum period, it can be fun for some age groups to pop to play with. That way, they can feed, dress, and bathe their doll!
9. Involve them in the care for the baby. The kids often really enjoy helping with bath time, changing diapers, and so on.
10. Be kind to yourself! Treat yourself to a little time out For example, by putting on a video during a feeding or while cooking… It calms the kids down—and you, too!
11. Give them one-on-one attention quality time! Don't forget to set the baby aside every now and then and give them some one-on-one attention. For example, read a book or play a game.
12. Make one party How about! A sandwich on the big bed and maybe a little gift for each day? That way, it'll be a party for everyone!
We hope these tips and tricks will give you some guidance as you prepare for the baby's arrival. big party Let it be!
