Children are often jealous of the appearance of a baby in the house, especially if the age difference is small. Until recently, the child was the only one, and all the love and affection went to him. With the appearance of a baby in the house, especially if he is restless, almost all attention goes to him. The elder feels offended, it seems to him that his mother has begun to love him less.
It is necessary to prepare an older child for the appearance of a baby in the house in advance. If acquaintances with small children come to visit you, take the baby in your arms, play with him. Tell your elder that he will soon have a brother or sister. If you decide to move the older child to another room, then do it in advance, i.e. before the baby appears in the house.
The child should not feel that he was "evicted" because the mother now has another baby. When changing clothes for a newborn, ask the elder to help you: for example, provide a diaper, a bonnet. Show what little arms and legs the baby has, how helpless he is, explain that he himself still cannot do anything. It is possible to emphasize the advantages of adulthood for an older person who can eat what a baby cannot yet, swing on a swing, watch cartoons. When buying something for a baby, be sure to buy something for an older child.
You should not forbid the elder to touch the baby, but only in your presence, emphasizing what an attentive and caring brother (sister) the baby has. When walking with your baby, take your older child with you. Ask him to help you drive the stroller, shake it if the baby cries. Praise your child about how good they are and how proud you are of them.
When you put your baby to bed, have the elder “put” the doll or stuffed toy. While the baby is sleeping, read a book with an elder, play a game. The child will know that his mother still loves him.
