Preparing Your 2-Year Old for the Baby

As the parent of a two year old, you know one thing- they can be temperamental at this age. You are probably wondering and worrying about your toddlers reaction to his or her new sibling. There are a few things you can do to help your 2 year old adjust to a new sibling.

Meet other babies

Take your 2 year old to meet the babies of your friends and family. Let your child see what a new baby looks like, how they sound and what kind of care they need. Let your toddler observe the baby being comforted, fed, and changed.

Read Books About Babies

There are several excellent books about the arrival of new siblings. Suggestions are What Baby Needs by Dr. William Sears, The New Baby by Mercer Mayer, and Julius, Baby Of The World by Kevin Henkes. These books are not only enjoyable for your toddler but will also give him or her a glimpse of what to expect.

Take your child to prenatals

Most midwives and doctors welcome siblings during prenatal visits and will allow them to play with the doppler and "help" with the exam. Allowing your child to hear his heartbeat through the doppler and then hear the same sound coming from the baby can help your 2 year old understand that there really is a person growing inside your tummy. Letting her watch the ultrasound is an even better way to solidify the idea.

Help your 2 year old bond with the baby

When you are in your 5th or 6th month, it will probably be possible for your 2 year old to feel the baby move inside you. Allow him to do this often. Encourage your toddler to talk, "read books" and sing to the baby, speaking to the baby by name if possible.

Shop for a Birthday Gifts for both children

Take your 2 year old shopping for a birthday gift and help him wrap it, then set it aside. When the new baby arrives, bring it out and have your toddler give the gift to the new baby. Be careful to pick something the baby can use during the newborn phase, such as a receiving blanket, pacifier or clothing item. Often, toddlers want to give gifts of toys to new babies and become frustrated when the newborn can't play with the toys.

When your 2 year old is not with you, buy him a gift from the new baby and present it to him whenever you bring the baby home from the hospital. This will help your child feel special when most of the attention is focused on his new baby sibling.

Source:

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