8 tips for welcoming a new brother or sister

The arrival of a new baby brings with it many changes and adjustments for everyone in the family, especially for your oldest son or daughter and the other siblings. At first, adjusting to the new family dynamic may not be easy. However, having siblings is the most beautiful thing in the world and before you know it, your little ones will be playing together and loving each other more than anything.

1. Take this time calmly

First of all, remember that your body is going through many changes and it is normal to feel overwhelmed by certain situations. Keep in mind that this is a period of adaptation for both you and the rest of your family . Little by little, the new family dynamic will begin to fall into place.

2. Create new routines

It's okay if you're not as organized and conscientious as you were with your first baby, as there will be less time. So, to achieve a more predictable family dynamic, establish new routines that will help the whole family.

3. Consolidate the well-being of your older child or children

If possible, don't make too many changes in the three months before the birth of your new brother or sister. For example, changing rooms, taking away the pacifier or giving up diapers could destabilize your little one.

Strengthening your older son or daughter's well-being before the arrival of the new baby is very important. It is the way to show him or her that everything is fine and that there is no reason to feel threatened .

4. Try not to advance transition stages

With the arrival of a new sibling, many parents move forward with processes for their older son or daughter, such as making the transition from the crib to the bed so that the new baby sleeps in the crib.

For many, it is a financial decision, but if you have the possibility of not rushing this transition, we advise you to do so. Because if your little one is not ready yet, it can greatly affect their sleep and routine . Our recommendation is to make this change when they are between 3.5 and 4 years old.

5. Create the bond between siblings

To do this, you can involve your older son or daughter in activities with your newborn and provide him or her with positive experiences in relation to the new sibling.

For example, when you are feeding your baby or changing him, you don't have to be alone in the room. Invite the older child to be a part of it. Let him or her observe and explain , if necessary, what is happening.

6. Spend time alone with the older one

After your new baby arrives, make time to plan activities with your older child whenever possible . If you can, take advantage of your newborn's sleep to spend quality time with your older child.

7. Don't question whether you're doing better or worse than with your first baby

Don't be hard on yourself. There is no reason to make comparisons, because with a second, third, or fourth child, there is clearly less time , but also more practice.

8. Ask for help

If you feel overwhelmed or are not doing well, it is always good to acknowledge it and ask for help . Take turns with your partner (always), mom or a friend to help you with whatever they can.

As an extra tip , don't forget that using white noise not only helps them sleep more easily and better, but it also helps to isolate external noises, such as those of an older sibling or a crying baby. This way, no one wakes up.