During pregnancy
To avoid this feeling, it's important to involve the older child in the major stages of pregnancy. For example, if you have an app on your phone that allows you to track the size of your future child, you can talk to him about it: today, baby is the size of a rabbit, a puppy... If he's big enough, you can also let him in on the secret of the first name. It's also important to let him express his feelings, to reassure him when he's in doubt, and to include him in the preparation of the bedroom or maternity bag. This will make the arrival of the youngest child a reality.
At birth
Often, during the maternity stay, the eldest child is entrusted to relatives. At such times, your child leaves his usual environment and doesn't see his parents for a few days. He may feel a little lonely, even if he's surrounded by friends and family. You can call him on video several times a day to give him news and reassure him. You can also take him to the maternity ward to meet the new addition to the family. This birth can be a source of jealousy and stress for your eldest child. Indeed, the newborn will receive many gifts and lots of attention from your loved ones. Here too, getting your child involved can help him or her avoid feeling left out. Together, you can choose a gift for his or her little brother or sister. Don't hesitate to offer a gift from the newborn to your eldest child. We've put together a list of gift ideas for your older sibling and for the baby-to-be.
The eldest child's gift for the future child:
By choosing this gift as a family, the older child will get some attention and can choose a product and color he or she likes.
- Personalized pacifier clip
- A personalized bib
- A personalized bath cape or apron for intimate moments in the bath
- The customizable musical mobile so your child can choose the melody he prefers
- Symbolic baby booties
Newborn gifts for the eldest child
- A personalized "big brother" "big sister" bathrobe
- A nomad lamp with a Fig tree motif
- A pencil case
- A personalized bib with sleeves
- A cuddly toy holder with a little treasure to slip inside
- A pouch to personalize with a little phrase "my big brother's / my big sister's things" to keep all her things in order.
Back home
It's often when you return from maternity that your child finds it hard to share your time. You can give him a few responsibilities, such as fetching a cuddly toy, diapers or liniment. He can also help prepare the bottle or read him stories. Depending on his age, you can also give him a Cocoeko crib and bath cape, as he'll love imitating you during diaper changes and mealtimes. Talk to your child, explain his role as big brother or big sister, help him look after the little one and let your older child pay attention to him. Not letting him do so could frustrate him. During your newborn's naps, spend time with your older child: play together, prepare a meal, read... It's important that your child doesn't feel rejected. By spending time alone with his parents, he won't feel isolated. When your older child returns home, he'll have to pay a little more attention to noises, share his time and, little by little, lend out his toys. These moments can lead to anger and frustration, so you can explain to him the advantages of being a grown-up:- Run
- Scooter riding
- Talking to friends
- Helping your little brother / sister
- Eating candy...