She's such a sensitive, soft, emotional little person, and I want to respect these character traits of hers. I don't want her to ever feel, even for a moment, that I don't have time for her or that she's no longer my number one priority. I'm aware of how much time, effort and energy a baby takes - but I will make a conscious effort to involve Mia in what I'm doing, explain things to her, make special time for her, praise her and ensure we get in our daily dose of snuggle-time!
I found some nice links with info regarding welcoming a sibling into the family, like this blog post, this article, and this one too. Lots of good ideas, some of which I've already either incorporated or have planned:
- I've been sure to include Mia with whatever preparation we do in the baby room. I show her all the baby clothes, I let her help open baby gifts from friends, I show her the old baby toys that she used to play with, I explain what everything is for.
- When I buy any baby related items in town, I'm sure to buy a little something for Mia too, even if it's just a packet of stickers or some socks!
- I want to have a present for her here at home, to open when I'm at hospital, telling her how much I love her and how proud I am of her.
- I will have a present at hospital for her, from baby Ella - and will arrange with hubby that she also brings a lil present and card for Ella.
- I'm trying to prepare her about the rude-awakening aspects of a new baby, the fact that she will cry lots, wake us up at night, and spit-up her milk.
- I tell Mia about all the helper-girl things that she can do with me, like giving baby sister her dummy, reading to her and showing her toys.
- I've ordered a book called I'm a Big Sister by Joanna Cole, will include this in her gift bag when baby's born.
- In the next few weeks before baby arrives, I want to take Mia to the movies, take her for ice-cream, take her for a stroll at the dairy farm, etc. And then, in the weeks after baby arrives, I will do the same!
- I'm going to ask family to give us space for a few days once we come home with Ella, to just adjust to life as a family of four and enjoy some quality time with our two daughters.
Well, that's pretty much the plan. I know Mia is going to be a fabulous, loving, special big sister. ♥
These are some great ideas Jess! Good luck with the transition but I'm sure Mia will do fabulously!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kim. I think she's gonna do great too! xx
DeleteThis is the sweetest blog post I have read in a while. I wanted to cry a little when I realised just exactly how much change your little family is about to go through. You are doing so much to prepare Mia, I am sure she is going to be absolutely fine and make a wonderful big sister. xx
ReplyDeleteI try to not ponder on all this too much, else I also want to cry a little each time!
DeleteThanks my friend, I also think Mia's going to make a wonderful big sis.
xx
Aw man, Jess, I actually have tears in my eyes. You are one of the best Mum's ever. I love the time and energy you put into Mia, and what you are going to put into Ella too. They are lucky little girls to have such wonderful parents.
ReplyDeleteMia is going to be a wonderful big sister. I'm sure she'll help you a lot
Aw thanks for special words Helen.
DeleteI think Mia's going to be such a good helper girl.
Hugs
xx
I'm blessed with having two sisters, so I know Mia and Ella is going to be the best friends ever - right from the start until they're old and grey! You are doing such a fabulous job preparing Mia and including her in all the preparations - there is no way that she will ever feel left behind or neglected! Raising either an imaginary glass, or a real glass with non-alcoholic champers to this wonderful new chapter in your life! xx
ReplyDeleteWoohoo, raising my glass of non-alco champers too! ♥
Deletexx