Newborn due and toddler at 30 months. Advice please

[XxstephlouxX]

I have a toddler and new baby due in January. Has anyone got any advice or tips on how to manage at home and when in the community? I am really worried as my two year old is being very demanding at present and not responding well whilst in public, having tantrums etc. Bedtime, feeding, and how to maintain a social life for my two year old is playing on my mind when I will also have a newborn x

So 2 and a half?

It's quite a normal age gap.

Just get the older child involved in choosing baby purchases, preparing clothes, getting a fresh nappy from the drawer for you, etc.

Same age gap as mine had. They are now almost 2 and 4 years (5 in Feb) you just find your own rytham really. You may encounter some small jelousy probenms with the eldest. What helped mine was treating her the same as the baby.... If I out a blanket on the baby I'd say, do you want a blanket. She would always say yes. Keep reminding the eldest they are you clever girl or your eldest baby. Keep reminding them how special they are to you. I think they need lots of reassurance.

Both kids clothing out the night before makes for an easier morning. Maybe get eldest sandwiches for lunch ready in the morning and put them in the fridge. Pack baby bag the night before going out. Always pack outfits for both lol.

Bedtime was hard for me. The baby was always awake when I wanted to take the eldest up. So we had to let the routine go abit. I always read a story to her every night and that was our one on one time.

Try go for walks to parks etc with eldest. Baby will enjoy the fresh air too. Helps again to make them feel mummy is still there and will hopefully help them burn off some toddler energy.

Behaviour charts worked around this age for my eldest. Praise also works. Get them involved with bathing, passing nappies etc. Give them a penny for their moneybox. Pennies for picking toys up etc. Tell them they are a wonderful big sister and baby loves them.

Ask people to say hello to eldest before holding baby. If they are able to put the eldest on their knee etc first that's also good. My DD struggled to see all her adults walking past her and holding her brother. They still need to feel they matter too.

Mostly it will become natural as you go along. You will find your own methods that work. Good luck with the new arrival. Xx