Preparing for your newest arrival can take a lot of time and energy and
it means lots of changes. These changes can be hard for an older
sibling; especially if he’s been an only child.
The experts at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics can help ease the
transition from only child to older child.
Michelle Haley, MD, pediatrician at Children’s Mercy says it’s normal
for an older sibling to have mixed emotions.
“Most children are excited of course that a new baby will be arriving,
but a child can also regress. He may want to drink out of a bottle
again, she may not cooperate or there may be potty training issues,”
Dr. Haley says. “The older child may also fear that he will not have
the attention of the parents anymore.”
Dr Haley recommends preparing your child for a new sibling early:
- Involvement: ask her to think of names for the baby, help pack
a bag for the hospital and help decorate the nursery.
- Make Changes early: potty training or moving your older child
to a new bedroom need to happen before the new baby arrives.
- Role playing: begin a routine with a doll, so he knows what it
like to have a sibling around.
- Patience: be patient with your older child, these changes can
be a lot for her to get used to.
“Parents shouldn’t try to force the new baby on the older sibling,” Dr.
Haley says. “It’s OK if they don’t bond right away. Just be patient and
involve her in the daily routine of caring for the baby.”
