PREPARING KIDS FOR A NEW SIBLING

Little ones can feel a whole range of emotions when they hear that a new baby is on the way. Here, we look at how to prepare them for this big change.

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With a baby coming, it’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement and concern around your new bundle of joy, and how it’s going to change your life as a parent. One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is the effect it can have on your broader family dynamic - particularly if you have other children at home.

While it may not be a surprise for your older child that soon there will be a new addition to the family, that doesn’t mean they fully understand what this entails. Depending on how it’s framed by parents, children can have very different interpretations of what impact this is going to have on the household. With that in mind, it’s worth taking a look at some things to consider when telling your kids about the new arrival, in order to make the adjustment as seamless as possible.

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME? Of course, it’s completely your decision when to reveal to your children that they’re going to have a new sibling! However, choosing the right time can feel like a total unknown. Many parents second-guess themselves while trying to figure this out. Perhaps you’re struggling to keep it a secret and want to tell them as soon as possible.