Tips & advice for when second born arrives

[Lemonnhoney]

Hi all,

Expecting second baby in Dec and wondered if anyone has tips/advice that made life a little bit easier..

My DS will be 2.5(ish), what were some activities that kept older children entertained for a while, how to make him feel involved and not left out?

Also not a clue how im gunna handle bedtime as I still lie with DS to fall asleep... and my DH works late shift every other week!

Thanks

Well you have a few weeks to get DS his own sleep routine! Start with that. I tend to think older siblings just want to carry on playing and doing their activities. So make sure nursery or activities continue. Try and get grandparents involved. 2.5 is too young to take an active role but do make sure they understand that a new baby is to be cared for. I never left my second near my first alone. Dropping toys on them or poking them was avoided!

The biggest issue can be jealousy. DC1 cannot tell you but they are used to having all your attention. They now have to share and they are not used to it. Make sure they still get attention but at the same time explaining that there has to be baby time. My very straightforward first born started climbing on furniture to get attention! When I was breast feeding. So just be aware that no 1 can find ways to make you give them attention!

Good luck and I hope you can get some help.

I’ve been told to make sure our arms are free when we first introduce DC1 to new baby, I.e. don’t be holding the baby.

I’ve heard people prepare a “busy bag” of special toys to play with while you’re breastfeeding or otherwise busy with the new baby. I think some even wrap up the toys inside like little presents, and you could have one bag that you add a few new toys to occasionally.

I’m trying to get together some things for a “busy bag” for my friend’s 3yo for when her baby sister arrives, so far I have a sticker book and one of those orchard toys puzzles. I’m also going to make a few things - games of pairs, a puzzle maybe.

Also when baby is sleeping I would try and do really fun activities with DS like messy things eg oats and lots of pots to scoop and pour, painting, baking... I know this all creates mess though! Just trying to think of good activities to do one on one when the baby is asleep.

I would also say that you can do bedtime one of two ways.... either try getting DS to go to sleep alone now, or bring the baby to be part of DSs bedtime. Could you put baby in Moses basket or cuddle them while you lay with DS?

Good luck hope it all goes well.