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A new baby is on the way. You are undoubtedly excited. Now it's time to share the excitement with your older child. What steps can you take to help prepare him for the new arrival?

Before Baby

If you are preparing a baby's room, allow your child to participate in the decorating process. Let him help pick out paint colors if you plan to paint and wall hangings. Also allow him to help decide which baby furniture to add to the baby's room. Go shopping and have him pick out clothes and/or a special toy for the new baby. You should in turn purchase clothes and/or a toy for your child as a gift from the baby.

Another important way to assist your older child in preparing for the baby is to include him in the naming process. Be excited about any suggestions he makes for the baby's name. Sit together and flip through baby name books. Talk about the meaning of some of the names.

Sharing pictures of the sonogram with your older child is yet another way to get him in a welcoming mood. Point out different parts of the developing infant. There are medical offices that also have the 3D ultrasounds. This is especially exciting because your child can get a detailed look of the new little one's face. If you are able to get a video of the baby's heartbeat, show this to your child also.

Welcome Baby!

Once your baby is born, the excitement will continue. Even though you will be busy caring for your new one, your older child may still be feeling a little abandoned. Take steps to include him in the care of the new baby. Have him bring diapers and clothes when you need them. He can also help "mix" the baby bottles by shaking them once they are made. When breast feeding, your older child can bring you a blanket to help make baby more comfortable.

With the assistance of you or your spouse, encourage your child to hold the new baby. This makes really cute pictures. You can also let him help pick out clothes for the baby to wear. Include your older child during bath time by letting him "test" the temperature of the water to make sure it's okay for his baby sibling.

Even though you have taken steps to include your older child in taking care of the new baby, he will still need some one on one time with you. Solicit the help from your spouse and other family members to care for the baby. That way you can spend some special moments with your older child. You can read books from the library about welcoming new siblings or read one of his favorite stories. In turn, your spouse and family can do the same.

Have fun welcoming your new baby. Including your older child in the smallest of preparations can insure a smooth transition for the entire family.

Learn more about this author, Cheryl Loux.
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