How Can I Prepare My Toddler for a New Baby?

For a toddler, the arrival of a new sibling is nothing less than world-changing. I mean, think about it—all the sudden, they’re not the center of their parents’ universe. There is a new baby in the house and everything they knew as normal is turned side-ways because of it. Or at least that is what it seems like from their pint-sized point of view. 

One way to prepare your toddler for a new baby is by practicing with a baby doll. Show her how you’ll breastfeed the baby—she can practise that, too—and how she can help with the nappy changes (or, at least, bring you a new nappy).

When you deliver the baby, you don’t have to bring your toddler, but if you do, make sure to bring someone along with you to help take care of him. Tell him that the baby’s toes are his “Special Big Brother Spot” to kiss and touch. That will help keep him from accidentally poking the baby in the eye. It’s also fun to tape one of his little drawings onto the baby’s bassinet. And, bring a new, wrapped stuffed animal to give him as a gift…from his baby! It’ll help him feel loved and included.

Speaking of presents, make sure you have a few new trinkets around the house for when visitors bring the new baby presents. When you have a visitor stopping by, secretly pass along one of them to your guest—to give to your toddler—as a “big brother” gift.

In the Happiest Toddler On The Block, I share lot’s more fun tips to help keep the peace in your growing family! For example, one called “gossiping.”  Say you’re in a room with your toddler and your husband, whisper loudly to your husband about how wonderful your toddler has been with his new sibling. (When you do this DO NOT look at your child or wink…the idea is that you “didn’t mean to be overheard.”) Your tot will intercept this secret message and feel appreciated for his cooperation.

Avertissement : Les informations présentes sur notre site ne constituent PAS des conseils médicaux pour une personne ou une condition spécifique. Elles sont uniquement destinées à titre d'information générale. Si vous avez des questions médicales et des préoccupations concernant votre enfant ou vous-même, veuillez contacter votre fournisseur de soins de santé. Le lait maternel est la meilleure source de nutrition pour les bébés. Il est important que, en préparation et pendant l'allaitement, les mères adoptent une alimentation saine et équilibrée. La combinaison de l'allaitement au sein et au biberon dans les premières semaines de vie peut réduire la production de lait maternel de la mère et il est difficile de revenir sur la décision de ne pas allaiter. Si vous décidez d'utiliser une préparation pour nourrissons, vous devez suivre les instructions avec soin.