Wellbeing

How To Help Your Toddler Cope With The Arrival Of A New Baby

Trusted Child Psychiatrist and Only About Children parenting expert, Dr Kaylene Henderson responds to the frequently asked question - how to promote a positive relationship between a toddler and new baby?
How To Help Your Toddler Cope With The Arrival Of A New Baby How To Help Your Toddler Cope With The Arrival Of A New Baby

 

How To Help Your Toddler Cope With The Arrival Of A New Baby: Fostering Baby and Toddler Bonding

During our Grow With Us toddler session, a myriad of excellent questions surfaced, and one particularly valuable tip emerged for those navigating the delicate balance of introducing a new baby to their toddler sibling. The key is to create a positive association in your toddler’s mind, essentially teaching them that the arrival of a new baby is a joyous event.

Baby and Toddler Bonding: A Personal Approach

Drawing from personal experience, one effective activity we embraced in the early stages was what we fondly termed ‘smiling practice.’ I explained to my toddler that babies, like themselves, need to learn everything, even the art of smiling. Together, we would gaze at our happily awake baby, smiling and creating a delightful bonding moment. My toddler, feeling included, took pride in her role as a teacher, fostering a sense of accomplishment when our baby responded with a sweet smile.

While spending quality time together is crucial, it’s equally important to dedicate 1:1 time, especially during the initial adjustment period. Whether it’s reading, snuggling, playing, dancing, or simply listening, these moments reinforce the positive connection between your toddler and the new baby. However, be mindful not to exclusively reserve your toddler’s favorite activities for times when the baby is absent. The goal is to create a positive association, and saving special activities may inadvertently lead your toddler to associate the absence of the baby with exclusive attention and favorite pastimes.

Encouraging Sibling Bonding: Additional Strategies

To further solidify a positive association for your toddler, consider these additional strategies:

Maintain Routine Consistency: Keep your toddler’s routine as consistent as possible to provide a sense of stability during this significant change.

Prepare ‘Big Brother/Sister’ Gifts: Store a stash of thoughtful ‘big brother/sister’ gifts for occasions when friends bring over newborn gifts. This not only involves your toddler in the celebration but also fosters a sense of pride in their new role.

Special Toys and Books for Feeding Time: Set aside special toys and books exclusively for feeding time. This creates a unique and enjoyable bonding experience, reinforcing positive feelings for your toddler.

Remember, the guiding principle is to cultivate a positive association in your toddler’s mind. By incorporating these approaches, you’ll witness the development of a strong and enduring sibling bond. As you navigate this exciting journey, focus on fostering a connection that will last a lifetime.

For more great advice from Dr Kaylene Henderson:

How To Help Your Screaming Child

Settling Into Childcare/Transitioning Rooms

Tackling Unhealthy Thinking Habits In Young Children: Perfectionism

Talking To Young Children About Death, Grief & Loss

 

Discover how Only About Children supports your child's development

Wellbeing

Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.

Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.

Related Reads

MasterChef Tommy Pham's Chinese Spinach & Cheese Flatbread
MasterChef Tommy Pham's Chinese Spinach & Cheese Flatbread MasterChef Tommy Pham's Chinese Spinach & Cheese Flatbread
Health & Nutrition

MasterChef Tommy Pham's Chinese Spinach & Cheese Flatbread

MasterChef Tommy Pham has teamed up with our OAC Dietitians to create delicious and nutritious recipes for our OAC Seasonal Menus. Campus cooks will be preparing Tommy's recipes as part of our delicious, rotating Spring Menu including Tommy's Chinese Spinach & Cheese Flatbread. Sound delish? Try the recipe at home!
Exploring Nature And Culture With Woori Yallock's Bush Kinder Program
Exploring Nature And Culture With Woori Yallock's Bush Kinder Program Exploring Nature And Culture With Woori Yallock's Bush Kinder Program
Community

Exploring Nature And Culture With Woori Yallock's Bush Kinder Program

Join us as we explore Woori Yallock Campus's Bush Kinder program! Nestled in the stunning Yarra Valley, this unique outdoor experience allows children to connect with nature, spark their imaginations, and learn about the land and its stories.
Transforming the Curriculum through Art at Fairlight 1
Transforming the Curriculum through Art at Fairlight 1 Transforming the Curriculum through Art at Fairlight 1
Community

Transforming the Curriculum through Art at Fairlight 1

At Fairlight 1, our Annual Art Show celebrates the integration of art into our curriculum. Featuring child-led projects in painting, sculpture, photography, and even 3D creations, the event showcases the children's creativity, inspired by artists, books, and sustainability themes.