13 of 21

Write now Article Tools

Maya was the first-born child, on all sides of the family. She received all the attention and felt very loved and very special because of it. Then three years down the line I had another child on the way. I was very worried about how she was going to take it. Maya's grand parents took her up to the hospital to see the baby. She was very excited. I kept telling her she's the big sister now.

When I arrived home, I didn't know just how much I had cut out for me. Maya became very jealous of Halie, her little sister. She just didn't understand why this new baby needed all this extra attention. She didn't understand why Halie could have something to drink in the middle of the night and why she couldn't. Why it was ok for Halie to mess her pants but not Maya.
Then when we came to see the grand parents, she realized she wasn't the center of attention any more. It was very hard for Maya to go through such a dramatic change.
I thought to myself this has got to stop. I even had a talk with all the grand parents. About making Maya feel special.
I started giving Maya special chores that made her feel like a big girl. I got her a goldfish and told her it was her responsibility to feed her fish three times a day. I told her Halie is too little to take care of the fish so it is hers. She was very excited and I could already see improvements.
I would also have her be as much part of this new experience as I was. I had Maya help me get diapers or wipes for the baby. I included her as much as I could, to make her feel special. I let her know what a big help she was and that mommy needed her help with the new baby.
Maya is like Halie's little protector, she always says, "Halie be careful." or "Halie don't touch that it's hot."
Now that Halie can walk around and talk a little more, Maya enjoys her company more. Now she has a playmate that she never had before.

Learn more about this author, Tara Moore.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Parenting multiple children: Being fair while making each child feel special?
We want to hear your view. Write now!