Baby number two is on the way, congratulations! Going from one child to two is a big leap, but once you see your first born become a big brother or sister your heart will melt! I would love to share a few tips that helped us to prepare for our second child. Remember some children are a bit older when they become a sibling, yet some are still very young, always do what works best for your family.
You’re Going to be a Big Sister!
Depending on your child’s age will determine how you will share the exciting news that they are going to have a sister or brother soon. Here are a few ideas!
- Show them your belly and how explain how there is a baby growing inside. This will help them also understand that need to be gentle with mommy.
- Ultrasound pictures and listening to the baby’s heartbeat; you can do this by playing doctor
- Reading books we love “I Am a Big Sister” By Caroline Jayne Church. These books are great because then can see what older siblings do.
The best time to share the news is typically 3-4 months before the baby comes. It gives your little one time to prepare for the second child. They can also visualize it more as your baby and stomach grows.
Toddler Transitions
If possible, you may want to tackle some toddler transitions before the second child comes. Depending on your child’s age and readiness of course! Two big ones that come to mind are potty training and transitioning out of the crib.
Potty training can only be successful when the child is ready. If your child is showing interest is the potty and is very uncomfortable in a soiled diaper that may be a sign, she is ready. I had two children in diapers at the same time and it was a challenge for sure, however my oldest just turned two years old two days before my second child was born so she was not ready for the potty and not showing any signs.
Transitioning your child from the crib to the bed is super helpful because you will not need to purchase a new crib or crib mattress. This a huge transition for children, it shows a sign of independence. Even though our daughter was two years old she showed signs that she was ready. We purchased bed rails for her big girl’s bed, and she did great in it! We also made sure there was a safety gate at the top of the stairs (this is a big one)!
Getting Ready for the Baby
Are you having the same gender? If so, this is a great time to start organizing clothing that your child grew out of. Organize by size and store in bins with lids with the sizes marked on them. If you are not having the same gender there is still many gender-neutral clothes that can be handed down, especially for newborns.
If your second child will have their own room this would be a great time to start designing the nursery. Take the opportunity to have your child help, this gets her involved and this is where it may really start to sink in.
Most likely you can reuse most things from your first child, however, some things may expire such as car seats, so check dates and recalls. A few things that you can’t reuse or things you may want to purchase more of are:
- Pacifiers
- Bottles/nipples
- Breast pump/breast feeding supplies
- Burp clothes
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Diaper Rash cream
- Changing pad covers
- More crib sheets (especially if you have two in cribs)
- A double stroller
- A baby wrap/carrier
The Arrival of Your Second Child
Give your oldest child little jobs to help out and get involved. Make time for one-on-one bonding with your oldest; this is super important! Take the time to read stories and sing songs together and even have little picnics in the backyard!
Adjusting from one to two can be challenging some days, especially at the very beginning, but just remember it gets easier. The best part is when you get to watch your children engage and play together. I promise, your heart WILL melt!
If you want some assistance when becoming a mom of two, reach out to Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny. We could help with overnight newborn care, postpartum doula support, or even pair you with a nanny who could assist with childcare and helping around the house. We are here to support you through every step of motherhood, including welcoming your second child.
About The Author
Jaclyn Capilli has over 10 years of experience working with children. After graduating from Curry College with her Bachelor’s Degree she worked as a paraprofessional in a special needs classroom. Then while in Graduate school at Cambridge College, she nannied for a local family for 3 years. After moving back to the South Shore she worked for Head Start for 5 plus years while nannying for a local family. She is now a mother of two and is working for Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny. She owns Jaclyn Nicole Photography, a photography business on the South Shore. In her free time, she likes reading, going for hikes, and making memories with her daughters.
