Playing with toddler post c-section

[kellybean18]

Hi
I’m having a CSection in a few weeks and just wanted some tips for playing with my toddler after. I know I’m going to be fairly sofa bound but I really want her to feel included and know mummy still wants to spend time with her.

I had a natural delivery last time which makes it hard for me to gauge what will and will not be viable. All tips welcome! TIA

I have no tips but am in exactly the same situation so would love to hear the answers.

I was thinking books would be good (if she will sit with me long enough!!)

I found that I could sit next to DC1 on the floor or a chair while playing. We went in the garden a lot with DC2 in the wrap. The only thing I couldn't do was lift, which was tricky to convey at first.

Within 3 weeks we were walking around parks so there was only limited disruption. It was just the first 5 days that were tricky with adjusting. Things like colouring, painting, play doh, kinetic sand are all fine, plus television for when you need to focus on the younger but need the elder to be occupied.

The hardest bit was cooking meals with a toddler and newborn - the wrap was invaluable for that.

I didn't have a toddler but I have a toddler now so things I can think...

• Playdough/painting/art in high chair or at table
• reading on sofa
• tea party or role play at table

Basically anything where you aren't sitting on the floor will be OK.

If you go out could you have her run and collect things like leaves and bring them to you?

Best thing is not to push yourself. With the pain medication it's easy to think you're more healed than you are. Just take it extra carefully ❤️

Start limiting your movement, lifting and type of play now so it's a gradual introduction into the change for your toddler.

I haven't had a c section but had abdominal surgery recently which had the same sorts of limitations, toddler and baby adjusted quickly to what I could do. Don't push yourself and listen to your body.