Congratulations on the baby, and a timely post for me as I’m also expecting a baby (Juneish) and so will look out for some of these for my 3 and a half year old. She’s currently very excited about being a big sister and loves babies but not sure how she’ll like the reality of sharing me (which we’ve been talking about too). I’m loving the way she wants to pull up my shirt to check my belly button then sings and talks to the baby and gives it hugs!

For my son we read a lot of books about babies – I have read all these plus about 10 more ( waiting to be reviewed soon). Then I ask lots of questions like : What do you think it will be like to have a baby ? What will it be like to share mommy? How will you feel if mommy can’t lay with you because she is snuggling the baby? I don’t tip toe about anything I just ask. I also tell him all the time that when the baby started growing in my belly my heart grew too so all the love for him is still in there and more room was made for my love for the baby. I don’t have to share the love, I just get more!

I also validate any feelings – don’t coddle them all , some I do.

There are a ton of books about getting siblings ready and really I think the best route is to expect all things and know that it’s a huge transition and toddlers suck at transitions. Expect some lashing out but don’t let it be an excuse, just an explanation.

I hope that helps somewhat.