Include the oldest siblings

One tip I have for postpartum changes at home is it include the older siblings.

It’s hard, you went from a family of 3 to 4, 4 to 5, 5+… And there’s so many changes happening for you. Sometimes it can be hard to remember that there’s so many changes happening for our other babies too.

Their routines change, they may loose space in the house or even just have to move their chair over because the high hair fits better in that spot..

It’s so important to include them. Of course it depends on their age and ability. My favorite thing I did before my third came was ask each of my other kids what’s one thing they really wanted to do before baby sister came. One kid wanted to have a family movie night on the couch, the other wanted a family zoo trip.

So we made it happen. And then we had each of them help with baby projects. Pick out an outfit, help wash and sanitize bottles, put books on the shelf, paint the nursery. Things they wanted to be a part of welcoming our new baby.

But it can’t stop there. When baby comes they can help with picking out outfits, packing the diaper bag, etc. things that are age appropriate but allow them to be a part of this new life.

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Thanks for the tip. I plan on homeschooling my children so the older ones will be included… when the second baby comes. I am hopefully after a miscarriage.

Thank you so much for this reminder that I didn’t realize I needed. I get so caught up in every day that I forget my older kiddos also need some time with me as well.

Amazing! Yes they can definitely help and feel included!