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Your first-born can adjust to their new sibling
Most likely, you are aware that sharing is not your child's favorite thing in the world. You may be able to share if it is. But for most people, it doesn’t come easily. Imagine your child having to share not only their favorite food and toy but also their parents. No wonder they get agitated when there is a new person in their home. They might trash the nursery of their sibling. Asking innocently if the baby can be returned. It can be difficult for an older child, who is now a celebrity and dreams of the golden years when everything was theirs.
First-borns are prone to jealousy and may even cry out about it all. It is how you deal with these emotions and interact between siblings that matters. The adjustment period between siblings can make or break a relationship.
These are some tips to make the adjustment as easy as possible.
Recognize your child's emotions
Understanding that your child may be having trouble adapting to new circumstances can help you understand why they might act out or show negative emotions. Instead of being harsh, be a therapist for your child and validate their feelings. Help them feel better by letting them know you love them unconditionally. They won't be able to join you in a glass of red wine at the end.
Enjoy a one-on-one time
You should make sure you have some time alone together so they don't feel like they're being replaced. You can give them as much or as little time as you like, but they will appreciate your complete, unrestricted attention. You won't be able to check Insta or plan your newborn's first Birthday on Pinterest. You are who you are.
You might feel overwhelmed and want to schedule activities with your partner, such as eating too many chocolate chip pancakes, or going to Chuck E. Cheese. You might find that your partner appreciates some time spent alone, without the need for diapers or bottles.
Ask a friend or relative for assistance. They'll be happy to tell you about the time they changed your eldest daughter's diapers at their wedding.
Keep them busy throughout the day
Have fun activities and games for your firstborn. You can now go wild on Pinterest. You have completed your job if they become consumed with a complicated DIY project or cover you in slime. This list has some ideas for new activities inside if you run out of ideas.
Offer gifts
As they see their sibling get all the presents, it seems like life is becoming more unfair for them. You can help them feel less alone by surprising them with a little surprise gift from time to time. Although we don't recommend bribing your child to do the right thing, it is a good idea to give them a surprise gift every now and again.
Reward them for their good behaviour
With many compliments and hugs, let your child know you appreciate the effort they put in to get along well with the baby. You can show your acting skills by being a bit crazy, especially when you are in front of others. You're the best big sibling!
These are the moments you will treasure forever, even though it may seem difficult. In just a few short years, they will be fighting about who does the dishes and how long the other spends in the bathroom. It comes down to whether you would prefer them to send Christmas cards each year or travel together with their future families. Going on family trips together as a family can help to build a stronger relationship, especially if they are young.
While there will always be competition between them, if they play it right, beneath it all will be love, and a bond that they won't find anywhere else.
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