Preparation of the child for the birth of a sibling

How do you prepare your child for the birth of a sibling?

The birth of a sibling is a very important event in the life of a young child. For this reason, parents should not underestimate the emotions involved. Any change can trigger a whole range of emotions, from joy to understandable fear or uncertainty. The child’s new role (big brother or big sister) and the fact that parents are no longer “exclusive” are events that significantly change the child’s functioning. It is best to explain the situation to the child and answer his or her questions. When this is difficult, many parents turn to manuals or special books that explain the upcoming changes in an understandable way. The earlier you talk to the child and prepare him for the birth of a sibling, the easier it will be for the child to accept the changes in the mother’s body – that is, the growing belly, but also possible hospitalization and the associated separation, if this is necessary during pregnancy. Many experts also advise including the child in preparations for the birth of a sibling. Choosing a stroller or a name for the baby together builds a bond even before the little brother or sister is born.

What age difference is best?

There is no specific rule for what age difference between siblings is best. It is up to the parents to decide when they want to have another child and when the right time is. Children adapt very well to change, but how they react to a new family member is a very individual matter. If the children are of a similar age (e.g. 2 years apart), they can play together and spend time together. However, this requires that there are two young children in the house at the beginning. The older the child is, the more responsible he or she will be towards younger siblings. The decision to have more children should be a conscious one, guided by feelings.

When should you tell a child about a younger sibling?

Experts and psychologists basically point out that you should not wait too long to tell a young child that he or she is going to have a sibling. The worst thing is when the child, instead of talking openly with parents, accidentally learns about it from other people. However, it is better to wait until the “safe” week of pregnancy, for example, after the ultrasound examination in the first trimester, when the risk of pregnancy loss decreases significantly. Otherwise, it would be very difficult to explain to the little one what a miscarriage is or why there is no younger sibling in the mother’s womb. On the other hand, however, it is better not to wait too long for the toddler to learn about the pregnancy, because if he happens to learn about it from another person, he might feel insecure and perceive a younger sibling as a threat. Jealousy about the arrival of a sibling is understandable and natural, but good preparation of the child can minimize the negative effects and make it easier to adjust to the new circumstances.