Introducing A New Baby Into The Household

Zachariah

Now Don't Take This The Wrong Way But... Well, Here's The NEW Baby...

I have 7 younger brothers, 5 of which are currently under the age of 7. We recently welcomed a new member into our family - Zachariah. Max, now second youngest, wasn't too keen on the idea of no longer being the 'baby' of the house. When first introduced at the hospital, Max looked at Zach like he was an alien, poked him, discovered Zach didn't like that, poked him again and discovered that the whole family didn't like that and had 'turned against him'. Obviously, we haven't turned against Max at all! We love him just the same as we always have! But, that being said, Max wouldn't quite see it that way. He believes he has been replaced and it is our job to rid Max of such a belief.

Ever since Zach has been home, Max has been a lot more attention-seeking... hmmm, I wonder why - who's up for a little competition? As I type this, Max is sitting on my lap 'proof-reading'. Max 1 - Zach 0. Zach is now crying - I pick Zach up. Max 1 - Zach 1. Me thinks this is gonna be a looooong day.

There are a few tips I will share with you in regards to dealing with this common 'transition'. Now, if only Max would stop blocking the damn keyboard - better put him on the ground - OOPS! Max 1 - Zach 2. Anywho, while Max sits on the ground feeling sorry for himself, we'll cover the basics.

Adam, Eric & Luke

1. Interaction With The Newborn

This is vital! Now, Max thought poking and petting Zach a little too hard was fun - we all know, it's not on. If your child does this to your newborn, do not, I repeat DO NOT ban him or her from interacting with the little one. This will cause jealousy and appear as favouritism! Simply show the older one how to 'pet' the newborn, even hold their hand and demonstrate the motion, then let them try. They will get it eventually! Kids are quick learners - especially at that age!

Luke, Eric & Adam

2. Balance Out The Attention

Well, that's just stating the obvious, isn't it? Bottom line: No favouritism! Treat everyone equally because then you leave very little room for jealousy amongst them all. I think it is self-explanatory, so let's move on quickly before Max remembers all about the emotional pain he is going through...

What? Luke Had A Big Day, Okay?

3. "I Love You"

Okay, a little kid like Max (he is only 1) may not understand what "I Love You" means, but they secretly get the gist of it. You must remind all the other children that you love them, as well as the newborn. Jealousy is quite an easy thing to control if you ensure you don't favour one child over the other/s...

Zach With His Signature Bear - Signed By All 7 Of His Siblings

So Welcome To The World Little One!

Well, they are the 3 basic 'rules' to follow when introducing a newborn into the family. In no time at all, it'll be like the newborn had been there all along! Max loves Zach! Er, Max... why is Zach in the recycling bin? Sorry hubbers, you'll have to excuse me... Max 2 - Zach 2. See, fair and square - hehe...

**Mum is sooo gonna disown me if Zach smells like old cardboard when she's finished the laundry... gulp** Bath Time in Baby Town! Toot Toot!

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