Getting siblings involved with baby
Most children have very little experience with newborns, and you may be surprised at the misconceptions your older children harbor. You may find your older child trying to climb into the baby's bassinet or piling toy trucks into the crib "to give to the baby."
To keep your new baby safe, it's helpful to give your older children a set of clear, concise rules to follow about being a good big brother or sister, which you can show by example while explaining.
- Always keep all objects out of the crib
- Make sure an adult is present when feeding the baby
- Always touch the baby gently, especially on the head
- Always wait for an adult to help you hold the baby
How to hold the baby
You'll need to teach your child how to safely handle an infant. Some parents find it helpful to have their child practice with a lifelike baby doll. Show your child how to cradle the baby in her arms, supporting the head and neck.
Here are some other tips to help make your child's experience holding the baby is a good one:
- Seat your child in a comfortable chair with arms.
- Gently place the baby in your child's arms, emphasizing the need for proper head and neck support.
- Stay nearby to help and offer encouragement.
- Encourage your child to look into the baby's eyes and talk to her.
- Praise your child for helping out.
As a general guideline, use positive terms to patiently teach your older child how to touch and hold the baby. Rather than say, "No! Don't poke the top of her head!" try to explain calmly: "The top of Baby's head is very tender because the bones are still soft. But she would love it if you kissed her there gently."
If your child gets upset when the baby cries while being held, be sure to explain that the baby isn’t crying because she's upset with her big sister. Let your older child know that the new baby is crying to let everyone know that she may be hungry or is in need of a diaper change.
Learning to share
Older siblings may be unhappy if visitors constantly give the baby new things. It may help to keep a box of wrapped small toys so you can offer one to your older child when the baby is given a gift.
Encourage your child's natural generosity by suggesting she make a recording of lullabies or music for the baby. Or suggest the child read a simple book to the baby and record her voice. By spending some time now teaching and loving your older child, you'll help her develop a lifelong appreciation of caring and sharing.
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