Newborn Jealousy: How To Help An Older Sibling Accept A Newborn

Firstborn jealousy toward a newborn sibling is normal, albeit frustrating. Regressive behaviour, separation anxiety, temper tantrums, clingy behaviour, withdrawal and even aggression towards the baby are various ways an older sibling would express his jealousy. Parents should expect such reactions but take steps to address them.

Preparation.

Prepare your child for the new sibling relationship by announcing a baby brother or sister is coming when physical signs of the pregnancy are evident. Although your child might be too young to understand the impact of having a sibling, preparation can help take some of the surprise out of the situation.

Take your first-born along when you go shopping for the baby.

Involve them in picking clothes and baby toys. My little girl chose to get a teddy bear done at ‘build-a-bear’, which she named and gifted the baby when she visited him in hospital. To this day she is thrilled with her purchase and talks about it no end.

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Teach

Your first goal is to protect the baby. Your second, to teach your older child how to interact with his new sibling in proper ways. You can teach your toddler how to play with the baby in the same way you teach him anything else. Talk to him, demonstrate, guide and encourage. Until you feel confident that you’ve achieved your second goal, however, do not leave the children alone together. Yes, I know. It isn’t convenient. But it is necessary, maybe even critical.

Be realistic

Do not tell the older child that he will have a baby sister/brother to play with. Let’s face it – its going to be a long time before that happens and they generally get disappointed pretty quickly that this baby isn’t as active as promised.

Act quickly

Every time you see your child hit, or act roughly with the baby, act quickly. You might firmly announce, “No hitting, time out.” Place the child in a time-out chair with the statement, “You can get up when you can use your hands in the right way.” Allow him to get right up if he wants – as long as he is careful and gentle with the baby. This isn’t punishment, after all. It’s just helping him learn that rough actions aren’t going to be permitted.

READ ALSO: 8 Ways to Curb Sibling Rivalry in Your Home

Once baby arrives, involve first-born in as much as you can

They will feel needed and valued. Get them to assist during bath time and get diapers when its changing time etc. My little girl loved picking baby’s outfit after his bath.