Preparing for baby number two? Expecting a second baby when you have a toddler can seem exhausting. And frankly—it is. Not just physically, but also emotionally. These tips will make transitioning from one child to two easier.
Here’s what you need to know about preparing for a second baby with a toddler.
1. TALK TO YOUR TODDLER
Prepare your toddler ahead. Let your toddler know that mum won’t stop loving him because there is a new baby.
2. READ BOOKS TOGETHER
There are a lot of excellent books on preparing for a second child. My favorites are “The New Baby” , ” I am a Big Brother” or “I am a Big Sister”
3. CREATE A SCHEDULE
Chances are your old routines won’t fit perfectly with the newborn. Ensure the new routine is not too far from what it used to be.
4. PLAY PRETEND PLAY GAMES WITH YOUR TODDLER
Let your toddler get familiar with caring for another individual. Pretend play like feeding and diaper change for a teddy bear is a good way to introduce it to your toddler.
5. ARRANGE THE NURSERY
Look through the clothes and gadgets and select the good ones so you know what you need to buy. Wash and air dry the gadgets.
6. ACCEPT THE REGRESSIONS
Your older baby may suddenly start acting like a baby again. This happens because of all the attention a newborn receiving, and it’s totally normal for your toddler to regress. He may want to be fed, carried and played with a lot. Shower as much affection as you can on your toddler so he doesn’t feel replaced.
7. STOCK UP ON TODDLER ACTIVITIES
Prepare ahead and get games and toys that need little or no assistance to engage your toddler.
When your newborn arrives, Include your toddler in your activities with your newborn as much as possible. For example， have them pass you the diaper and wipes during diaper change.
What other tips worked for you? Please share with us.
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