“We’re having another baby!”
The transition between one child to having two
Having one child is a wonderful experience. You get to watch them grow and learn, and you get to experience all the joys of parenthood. But when you decide to have another child, the transition can be a bit overwhelming.
Here are a few tips to help you make the transition from one child to two:
Prepare your older child.
Talk to your older child about the new baby and what to expect. Let them know that they are still loved and important, and that they will still get your attention. Allow them to rub and connect with the bump, sing songs and create a special bond with the bump. Let them see the ultra sound pictures or even come to those appointments with you where they hear the heartbeat. Make it an enjoyable process for them also.
Get organised.
Before the new baby arrives, take some time to get organized. This will help you stay on top of things when you have two kids e.g. buying the double pram or preparing a space for both children to play in. Its different when you have a child already, as you’ll be occupied with them, so make the effort to get all sorted well in advance. It will help ease the transition the closer you get to your due date.
Ask for help.
It can be difficult as you won’t think anyone can do as good of a job as you (which is probably true) but, don't be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. They can help you with things like cooking, cleaning, and watching the kids. Or, outsource help. We live in the digital age where you can order a hello fresh box or a cleaner on an app. Although these things can be expensive, find out what works for you. Ensure that your support system is stable
Allow yourself and your older child to meet the baby together.
Introducing your older child to your newborn whilst you hold them instead of the baby can break the barrier of jealousy they may experience in an initial encounter. Everyone is going to be excited about the baby, you want your child to feel the same excitement and not feel left out. So, show them some love and appreciation and let them also have a moment to shine.
Celebrate your older child.
It’s easy for you to naturally gravitate towards the baby in the beginning. However, you must remember to spend time with your first born and include them in everything you’re doing. It can be hard, but try to not scoot them away to the side. Instead ask them for their opinion on things you should do. e.g. give them options in what to dress the baby in or allow them pick an item for the baby. It creates a bond between both children and your eldest won’t feel like the attention has drifted away from them.
Create a schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
Children thrive best when they have a schedule. This will help everyone know what to expect and make things run more smoothly. However, this is not going to be something that is figured out instantly. You’ll need to work around your children and their schedule first.
Be patient.
It takes time for everyone to adjust to a new baby. Don't get discouraged if things don't go perfectly at first. It really is a game of learning how your baby behaves and what their cues are. It will take time to learn but you will get the hang of it. I PROMISE!
Take breaks.
It's important to take some designated time for yourself, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. This will help you stay sane! Take a moment for yourself, really embrace yourself and do a little something for you, even if that just means making yourself a coffee or doing all 12 steps of your skincare routine. Do something, it could be the little pick me up you never knew you needed.
Take it one day at a time.
Don't try to do too much at once, you’ll notice that a lot of parents get burned out from the never ending cycle of cleaning up, maintaining their own sanity and entertaining their children. Don’t over do it for yourself. Section everything into days or set a timer for yourself to spend time doing those things that are necessary for you and your family to thrive.
Enjoy the journey.
Raising two kids is a lot of work, but it's also a lot of fun and in my opinion a lot easier that having just the one. Cherish the moments and make the most of it! Watching your children grow with each other is so heartwarming and watching them bond will honestly create a heart bursting amount of joy.
