Introducing a new sibling into the family is always exciting. However, whether you are welcoming a new baby or fostering an older child, helping your child adjust to this big change in their life is important. With some preparation and understanding, you can make the transition smoother and set your expanded family up for success. In this guide, we’ll explore ways to get your child ready for their new brother or sister.
Talk Openly About the New Arrival
Once you know a new child is joining your family, start talking to your child about it. Explain in simple terms that a new baby is growing in mummy’s tummy or that you’ll be fostering another child who needs a loving home. Use books, dolls, and role play to demonstrate what life will be like with a sibling. Highlight the fun aspects, like having a playmate, but also acknowledge that sharing you with a new child may be hard at times. Ask your child questions and allow them to express any concerns. Continue these open conversations as the arrival gets closer.
Get Your Child Involved
Including your child in preparations for the new sibling can get them excited and more accepting of the major life change ahead. Take your child with you when buying supplies like a cot or car seat. Let them pick out a welcome gift or help decorate the nursery. Or, they can help choose toys and activities to welcome your new foster child.
Consider Practical Changes
Think about any practical changes your child will encounter when the sibling arrives and make adjustments in advance. Will they need to move to a new bedroom to make space for the child? Get them comfortable with the new environment. If your child will now share a room, experiment with nap times and bedtimes together ahead of time. Update your routine and household rules to reflect an additional child.
Spend Special Time Together
The new sibling will consume a lot of your time and energy in the beginning. Make sure your child knows they are still loved just as much. Schedule regular special time like a weekly movie night or special outing. Attend parent and child activities if your child is a toddler or preschooler. For school-age kids, set aside time each day to connect and talk without distraction. Maintain your family traditions and routines like reading bedtime stories.
Explain What’s Ahead
Kids do better when they know what to expect. Explain to your child how life will change when their sibling arrives. Be honest that you’ll be busier and won’t be able to tend to all their needs immediately like before. Prepare them for typical new baby behaviours like crying, messes, and less attention for them. If you are looking at becoming a foster parent, describe the new child joining your home and how you’ll help them adjust. Make it clear that your love won’t be divided – it will multiply.
Encourage Expression of Feelings
Your child may feel angry, jealous or upset about the new family addition. Allow them to express these emotions in a healthy way. Provide outlets like art, physical activity, or talk therapy. Don’t dismiss their concerns or scold them for normal feelings. Reassure them it’s okay to be mad or sad sometimes. Explain that all change is hard, but you’re there to help them adjust.
Embrace the Experience
Finally, keep perspective. The adjustment will likely be bumpy and require serious patience. But growing up with a sibling creates meaningful bonds and invaluable life lessons. This will be a learning curve but also a beautiful new dimension for your expanding family. With your guidance and unconditional love, your children can develop a lifelong supportive relationship.
