Breaking the news of the arrival of another infant to other children is a delicate task. Depending upon the age and maturity level of a child, you have to frame your strategy. Children from toddlers to adolescents comprehend the changes in their mother’s body and the arrival of another young one. It is best to prepare them before-hand so that it is fun for them instead of a distress.

Be candid and informative to the queries of your child. Also remember to furnish answers according to their level of understanding. It is important to satiate their curiosity. It is best to give them a time frame they can relate to like “He will arrive about the time of your birthday”. Do not start sending your child to nursery school, take away the pacifier or change his room in the nick of time.

Such actions send wrong signals. Instead of nurturing feelings of rivalry, place him as a guardian and playmate. Refer to the baby as “ours” so that the child feels involved. Start preparing the room of the baby along with the child and let him feel the honor of being “a big brother”. Involve him in the prenatal sessions so that he can actively sense the baby.

Be extra generous with those warm gestures with the child. Go that extra mile to make him feel reassured of your affection. Many books on reproduction can be read to your child for giving him knowledge and getting over the awkwardness. Above all, remember to make him feel important as your beloved child and as a would-be elder sibling.