Advice on helping my 7 year old adjust to having a baby sister!

[CatherinePepler]

I am a newbie, so please forgive me if I waffle!!!

I am 2 weeks away from giving birth to my second child, we already have a 7 year old daughter. She is very sensitive and has recently started saying things like "I only have 2 weeks left and then you won't love me anymore..." which breaks my heart, and as much as I try and reassure her, she is becoming increasingly withdrawn and clingy. Is this normal behaviour? And how can I help her through it?

can you get her more involved in preparation for the new baby? Take her out to choose the baby's coming home outfit, and involve her in any nursery decoration etc etc.
Tell her it is her baby as well and that she is going to be a fantastic big sister.

I agree.
Keep telling her how much you love her too. When the baby is born let her be involved as much as poss. Try not to jump when she touches the baby, let her hold it etc.

My dd1 was 6 and a half when her sister was born. Dd1 got to choose the outfit that dd2 came home in, she went with her dad to buy it while I was in the hospital. Also dd2 brought a present with her for dd1. Maybe try to mention to people that if they are bringing a present to the new baby to maybe try and include a little something for your older daughter, that way she won't feel too left out with everyone lavising attention on the new baby.

I'm sure she will love her sister once she arrives it's probably just the anticipation of it all. Good luck

I remember when my little brother was born and there was a 9 year difference. He got me a skateboard (very impressive for a newborn baby I know!!) to thank me for being his big sister and I remember feeling very chuffed about that. We (I had another bro 2 yrs younger) were also involved in the preparation, amongst the fist people in the room once my mum had had him and then fully involved in caring for him afterwards (we actually argued over who was going to help change his nappy I kid you not!!). Iw ould focus on your dd being involved in everything and that she's going to have her own job in it all as big sister. Also echoing the little presents for her when everyone comes in. Perhaps her first job as big sister could be to be in charge of opening all of the new babies gifts and writing in a little book who bought what and showing them to the new baby. Just reassure her (which I'm sure you are) that its not a replacement its an addition that is going to be as much fune etc for her as it is for you.