Help with 11month old adjusting to a new baby

[Kellymariet]

Hi all, I’m due a new baby in January 2024 and my son will be 11 months old. Any advice on how to prepare him for the new arrival?

I didn’t think I’d have to worry too much as he’ll be so young but he’s currently 6 months and changing every day and becoming more aware of things. I thought maybe getting him some dolls might help, but of course I’ve never been in this situation before, so any help or ideas of how this has gone for others and what you did to prepare would be fab!

Thank you! X

Mine is just about to get at sibling at 16mo and honestly other than talking about the baby in my tummy and how there's going to be a new baby there's not much more he can understand.

So at 11mo I wouldn't worry too much. They still just take everyday as it comes at that age (and still at 16mo tbh) - quite lovely really, no expectations, just totally in the present and taking everything in their stride.

Congratulations! I’m slightly embarrassed to admit, but I have a similar age gap and I bought a baby Annabelle and carried it around a bit whilst I was at home. So I would just always say ‘yes let’s do that, I’ll just have to put annabelle down’, ‘oh yes I’d love to play with you- just let’s make sure annabelle is tucked up asleep’. Absolute madness but i hoped it would warm her up to the idea.

That’s what I was thinking but of course have never had an 11month old so was unsure what he’d be like then, but great to hear from someone a few months ahead. And good luck with new baby!

There’s lots of things we do at home with our babies that we wouldn’t dare do in public 😂 thanks for your comment, I may just get a doll but whether he’ll even take notice? We’ll see! X

I wouldn't stress too much about it - 11 months is still very small and pretty much still a baby themselves. I'm not sure how much understanding they would have about dolls and things but there's no harm. I would focus on things like making sure they can fall asleep themselves for naps and having some form of comfort other than you eg my 12 month old is very attached to her favorite soft toy. Unfortunately she still needs help to fall asleep for naps and at night which could be tricky to juggle with a newborn. Also making sure they will settle for Dad (assuming you have a partner) in case he needs to take on more of the care of your 11 month old in the early days.