Many parents find themselves searching for answers to the following questions. Look no further for the answers!
Will there be enough time, energy, and money!
Many of us want to know exactly what lies ahead and prepare for any and all eventualities. But the truth is that many details only become clear during the process.
Your usual routine will likely be altered, so give yourself time to adapt to your new reality and tune in to the fact that you will have to address problems as they come along.
When planning a pregnancy, it’s better to focus on the things you can control:
Make a list of current and upcoming expenses, and optimize spending.
Arrange with relatives, friends, or acquaintances for help during pregnancy, childbirth, and the first weeks after.
Prepare the house for the arrival of the second child, and buy the necessary things. Check which of your older child’s things you can reuse.
I'm afraid I won't be able to love the baby as much as I love my older one
Research does show that, on average, moms talk a bit less to their youngest child than they did to their eldest when they were infants. The same applies to physical contact and games [1].
It may sound a little cold, but the truth is that mom simply has less time for the new baby. Fatigue and stress may interfere with establishing an immediate emotional connection with the second child. But that is completely normal! Start working on your relationship during pregnancy by stroking your stomach more often, singing to your baby, and talking to them.
What if my older child doesn’t accept the baby?
Your firstborn may feel a little jealous, but that is to be expected. Make sure to tell them about their sibling during the pregnancy, show them pictures, talk to them about how families with two or more children, and point out siblings that are having fun together at the park or a gathering.
When the baby is born, take at least 5 to 10 minutes a day for some one-on-one time with the older sibling. You can give them a doll to play with and take care of the way you do with the baby. It makes for some wonderful quality time that will bring you closer together.
