Facing a child who is jealous of his new sister & bull; hello healthy

Children who are jealous of their newborn baby siblings are common. Your toddler will experience a variety of emotions when he has a new sibling. She may feel jealous or anxious about her new sister. However, he may also feel joy, love, and pride. How can parents deal with a child's jealousy and make him receive a younger baby warmly?

Dealing with children who are jealous of their new siblings

1. Listen to the grunt

Try to get your child to express all his emotions, good and bad, by encouraging him to talk about his feelings. This will encourage your child to tell you how he is feeling, rather than just signaling through physical actions such as hitting, pinching, or pushing your baby's sibling.

If your toddler hits a younger sibling, explain that this is intolerable. Tell him calmly and gently that hitting is not allowed. You can suggest your child to show his feelings by showing a sullen face or an angry expression, or the two of you can shout out each other's feelings together.

ALSO READ: Preparing the Eldest to Have a Brother

2. Understand that he is just trying to get your attention

Some toddlers try to get their parents' attention by behaving like babies. If your toddler starts behaving strangely to get attention, try to be patient with his attitude. Your child may just need a little extra attention from you for a while. With your help, he will soon be back to himself. Make sure your child understands that it's okay for him to feel these things.

3. Involve the child in preparing to welcome the baby

Before the baby is born, give her permission to be jealous, and let her know that the other siblings feel the same way when their new sibling is there. You may want to find children's books about babies, and read them together.

You can also let your children be involved in preparing for their new siblings. She can help make simple decisions, such as whether the baby's bed sheet should be yellow or red.

ALSO READ: 7 Ways to Make Your Home a Safe Place for Children

4. Let your child know that your affection for her has not changed

After your baby is born, remind your toddler that your love for him is still the same. Let him know that he is still as special as before. If she starts acting up by saying that she hates her younger sibling, or by pinching the baby sibling, understand that this means that the older sibling needs more time with you.

5. Maintain a routine

With the arrival of a new child, your routine will certainly change. But try to keep your routine from being too distracted. Stick to routines such as having breakfast together, watching favorite television shows every evening, and reading fairy tales at the same time before bedtime, to help your child adjust. Also avoid major changes at this time, such as moving houses or schools.

6. Encourage children to help care for their younger siblings

Try to involve the child with baby care. For example, you could let him choose a nightgown for his sister, or choose what he will wear today. You can also ask him to tell you when he thinks his baby's sister needs something (when the baby cries).