The Arrival Of A New Brother Is The Best Gift
The arrival of a new brother is an event that should bring joy to the firstborn. Anyway, it is normal for older children to feel resentment and jealousy of the new member of the family, because during this stage many changes happen. In many cases, children find it difficult to adapt to them.
How do you get your oldest child to adapt positively?
In order for your firstborn to be happy with the arrival of a new sibling, you need to help him. The following suggestions can be very helpful.
meet the baby in the hospital
This is a good option, as he will be able to be with his mother again and see his little brother for the first time. That way, you can let him see you and pet him carefully for as long as necessary. In this way, the fraternal bond will begin to be strengthened.
Another practical suggestion is to give the oldest child a gift on behalf of the newborn. You must make him feel that your love for him has not changed, and that he remains an important member of the family.
keep the daily routine
The arrival of a new baby causes changes in the family environment. As much as possible, stick to your older child’s routine, thus avoiding drastic changes for him.
In case you can’t avoid it, explain to him the reason for some changes . Respecting your space and keeping your belongings in their respective places is also a practical suggestion.
spend time
While it may be difficult to find time for your oldest child , you should find a time of day to be alone with him. Both parents have to devote exclusive time to each of their children.
Allow him to participate in your baby’s care. For example, helping to hold a diaper or a bottle, among other things that are within your reach and according to your age. This will make the child feel useful and important. And, thus, it will make it easier for her to approve the new member.
Another alternative is that you have fun with the oldest in the presence of the youngest. This way, the child will know that the mother continues to spend time with her, singing, playing or reading stories . The goal is for her to see her new brother as a gift to the family.
Caring for communication with the child
You should explain to your child what is happening honestly, but according to their age and maturity. From the age of 2, he is able to understand many things . Listen carefully to his concerns and respond in words he understands.
You can also talk about when he was a baby and how you took care of him. Show off photos and clothing from that era; this will make him identify himself. It is essential to show affection and affection at all times and make him realize that his parents continue to love him, just as they love the newborn.
Preserve the role of other family members
Other close family members, such as grandparents and uncles, can spend quality time with the child. It can be through activities such as taking him to play in the park, going out for a snack, going to the movies or other usual activities.
This will help her not to notice the change so drastically, that is, the fact that Mommy is no longer able to devote so much time to her.
4 situations that parents must prevent from happening
You can avoid uncomfortable situations and misunderstandings between your eldest and youngest child. For this, follow the following recommendations:
- Don’t allow the older child to go overboard in trying to get the parents’ attention.
- As parents, you shouldn’t feel bad about spending time with the baby.
- Don’t let the child dominate the situation with tantrums and uncontrollable crying.
- Show firmness but also patience and love when correcting him.
Why is the oldest child jealous when the younger brother is born?
Children’s jealousy is a normal and positive feeling within reason, as it indicates that the child has a strong emotional bond with their parents. This is an essential factor in loving and being loved in life.
In general, the new baby holds everyone’s attention, especially its parents. This is why the oldest child feels as if his relationship with his parents is threatened and ends up demonstrating this through extreme behavior.
You can balance the attention given to both children at home, and show them all the love and affection they deserve. In this way, the arrival of a new brother will be seen as the best gift.
