Preparing my toddler for his new sibling

Nicole · Jun 23, 2008

Dear ILites,

I am 13 weeks pregnant and my elder son is only one and a half years old. I am also working in a company in Dubai. On working days I need to start atleast at 7.15 am and will be usually returning at 7.45 pm. My maid left when my son was 1 yr old and I am keeping him at a day-care on my working days.

I am really worried on managing both my children together. I have no clue about how my son will respond to his new sibling. I have had immense pressure from our family in India to leave my son with them. But I know that would be the worst thing that I could ever do to my children. I am really worried, now when the second child comes, the pressure will be all the more.

There must be a lot of ladies who pass through this kind of a busy life. Please give me you tips o how to manage all these together, and on how to prepare my son for his siblings arrrival.

rajmiarun · Jun 25, 2008

Though my daughter was quite old enough to understand things, when it comes to options, it was very difficult. But right from the day one, we went to see the doctor, we took her too along and for the scan sessions, she was also present, and was very thrilled to see the growth of the baby stage by stage. Even though your son is 1.5 years old, he will be able to understand that you are going to have another person at home, and that person will be his kid brother/sister. But pls dont tell that he will have a brother or sister, untill you know the gender of the baby. Once the baby is born, try to get some help and also make sure that you involve your kid in all those work you do for your baby. Like you could ask your son to get his toys to make the baby smile, you son could hold the towel when you give the baby a bath and he could also help you powder and dress the baby. This way, the elder and younger one will have a bonding and you will be amazed to see how they both take care of each other.

All the best for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.