Having Baby Number Two? Worried About Sibling Rivalry?

Having baby number two? Wondering how your oldest child will handle having a new baby in the house? Well, here are some tips that I used when I had my second child.

Before the new baby is born, have your older child get to "know" the baby. Show her sonograms of the baby, let her talk to your tummy, and feel the baby kick. Show your child her baby photo album. Show her what she looked like when she was a baby, and explain to her the ins and outs of taking care of a baby; diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights.

Visitors will often times bring gifts for the new baby but won't think to bring an extra gift for the older sibling. It can help to keep a reserve of small gifts to give to the older child in these circumstances.

Have the older child feel proud by having her push the stroller on walks, or ask her to hand you a diaper, bib, burpcloth, etc. Remember to praise her for a job well done, and thank her for her help.

One of the biggest things that bothers children is sharing you with the new baby. You'll never be able to give each child equal time and attention, as babies have so many needs, but you can give the older child some mommy attention by doing some of the following:

Place baby on a blanket on the floor to watch you play a game with the older sibling.

Have daddy, a friend, or relative watch and care for the baby while you spend one-on-one time with your child. This can even be just taking ten minutes to play music and dance together, read a book, or just cuddle.

Remember- you can't play super mommy, you can only do your best. But trust me- you, your oldest child, and the baby will make it through just fine.