Discovery Home & Health

I am 24 weeks pregnant at the moment and i would like some tips on how to prepare my son for the new arrival. He will be 21 months old when this one comes so i would really appreciate some tips.

Hi, Hope all goes well. I am personally not above bribery. Although your eldest will still be quite young, I suggest that you try to explain in very simple terms what is going to happen. Point out new babies when out and about and then point at your tummy. If you can find a story book in the library or buy one from a bookshop. I used a book called "theres a house inside my mummy". Most importantly, make sure that all your visitors speak to and spend time with the eldest first when entering the house. The baby won't know its being ignored for the first 5 minutes.When the baby comes home, make sure the baby brings a wrapped present for your eldest.I can't impress more that a fuss should be made of the eldest.In my case, the eldest thought the baby was the best thing ever because he got more attention than normal!

My best advise for you is to make sure when your little one sees you for the first time after having the baby make sure that you are not holding the baby. The first big fuss and cuddles should go to your older child. This is the best way to start

Hope this helps

Kelly (professional nanny)

Hi Chris, I no how u feel! there's 2 yrs 3 mths between my girls! Just get him involved in u're pregnancy. Let him feel u're tummy and keep stressing the fact that there's a baby in there! I agree with Lorayne though, when the baby comes home make a real fuss of u're eldest. Kiera used 2 b fine when it was just the 4 of us in thehouse, but as soon as visitors came she would go mental! Fighting and screaming, so we would pay her some attention as well as the new baby!! Good luck with it! When r u due, btw?? I'm 25 weeks and due on 2nd Feb.

P.S. there will b just over 2 yrs and 3 mths this time as well!!!