Three and a bit year age gap - what's it like? Any tips?

[Grainwhole]

Dd would really love a playmate but how long does it take for them to have anything in common/ enjoy playing with each other with a three year gap?

Also, any tips on how to stop DD feeling displaced? Only newly pregnant so lots of time yet, but wondering how to 'sell' the idea to her nearer the time - she's very much an only child/ mummy's baby at the mo, so a bit worried she'll be rather WHAT THEEEE?!!!

[OutragedFromLeeds]

There is 3.5 years between DC3 and DC4 and I'd say they started playing together when DC4 was about 2.5 and DC3 was 6.

Some children really enjoy being the big brother/sister in the early days and are happy to help look after the baby. Once the baby gets a bit bigger before they properly play together, the older one may enjoy being able to make the baby laugh/play with the baby on a baby level e.g. helping with puzzles that they find really easy, but are a struggle for the baby to do by themselves etc.

[Booboostoo]

DD was 3.3yo when DS was born and she has been really interested in him. She rattles his toys, sings and dances for him and generally entertains him. He's 6 mo and adores her!

[Panzee]

There are three and ahalf years between my boys. They started playing together shortly before the younger turned two.

[Waterandtea]

3 yrs 1mth between my boys, it's a good gap I think as ds1 was old enough to understand that I was having a baby & to help. He's loved being a big brother and is v tolerant (most of the time....) they started playing together when ds2 was about 18mths and by the time ds2 was 2.5 they would go off and play together without needing me to be there so I could sit down for a cup of tea .

Also useful age gap as didn't have 2 in nappies, didn't need a double buggy etc.

[TantricShift]

I have 2 DD who are 4 years apart and they are fantastic together. My 5 year old loves her little sister to bits and they entertain each other already. They also fight too which has shown up quicker than I expected. I love the big age gap but think I am quite lucky that my 18 month DD has been walking since 10 months and is happy to join in with anything. My older DD does however have to be quite patient with her as she is a bit of a force of nature and knows what she wants already. I like the big gap but I do realise
I will be walking to and from school for the next 11 years!

[ChillySundays]

DD and DS with three and half year gap. DD was able to help a little bit and also as he got older to play with him.

She has already started nursery as well so it was part of her routine so didn't feel that she was going because of the baby

My two still get on well (have their moments). They are 20 & 16

Second the only one lot of nappies cost wise although having to go back to nappies was a pain!

[ChillySundays]

Another consideration (although a long time away) is that have them too close together and you have two DC at university at the same time