6 Steps to transitioning an only child into a loving sibling, THE EASY WAY!

We all get that fear of wondering how our first child will handle a new sibling . We often worry that the child will act out of jealousy. Luckily, there are ways to get your only child excited about becoming a sibling. Some of these steps have obviously not been invented by me, but they are ideas that I have taken from friends who have already been through the parents-of-siblings trenches. I hope this helps you as much as it helped me!

1. Give Notice.
Your belly is getting bigger, you will need to tell your child at some point. Talk about how much fun it will be once they have another sibling to play with. If you have a sibling, tell the child about how great it is. There are many children's books out there on becoming a big brother/ sister.
2. Big Sister/ Brother Day
This is the day your second child is born. Hype you first child up about it saying this is a very special day for her because it is the day she becomes a big sister. You can have a cake (or cupcake), balloons and a present waiting for your first child when she comes to visit you at the hospital. It would be a good idea to say the present was from the younger sibling.
3. Have small presents for the child when the baby gets gifts.
I'm not saying go to babies r us and buy your child a bunch of expensive toys, you can easily go to the dollar store and pick up some coloring books and small toys that she can play with. She won't get jealous of all the baby's nice new things because she received something small too.
4. Give your older child the attention she/he needs.
Spend time with her. Let her see she is a priority. Even if it is just for 15 minutes a day dedicated solely to her, she will feel loved and she will be less likely to act out.
5. Let her help you with the baby.
Diaper changes, bringing a blanket to the baby, helping with bath time, or getting her binky, she will like feeling that she has a helping role to play for her younger sibling.
6.  Let her love the baby in her own way.
If she wants to lay beside the baby on her play mat during tummy time, let her. Or if she wants to be in the crib with her for a few minutes, why not? This is her time to bond with the baby and be close with her. You could even allow her to hold the baby (obviously make sure they are both supported). Let her hold hands and give kisses.