Even if the idea of a new baby brother or sister sounds great to your child, it’s likely that the change will take some getting used to. Here are some ways that older children might act out, and here are some things you can do to make the change easier.
What’s normal
- Ignoring the baby.
- Acting out or trying to break rules.
- Baby-like behavior: Having accidents once potty-trained, wanting to feed from a bottle.
- Angry comments or even actions.
How to help your older child adjust
- Set aside a few minutes each day to focus on your older children.
- Wear the baby in a carrier, so you have both hands free for your older child.
- Help your child talk or play with the baby.
- Calmly let your child know that it is wrong to hit, poke or hurt the baby.
- Give your older child a way to help with the baby.
