It is important to remember that your child has previously been the centre of your world and now they will have to learn how to share your love and care. Involve your child from the beginning of your pregnancy.

Talk about the new baby and how the baby may look. You may wish to take out their photos and talk about their infancy. It will all help to prepare them for the new arrival. If possible take your child to antenatal appointments, let them listen to the new baby’s heartbeat.

Following the birth, and when your child/ren are to meet your newborn baby for the first time, make it special for them. A crowd of relations who may want to come also may overwhelm them.

Often it is useful to give your toddler a gift from the baby, which can help to establish good relations between them. Ask your friends and relatives when visiting the newborn, to be inclusive of any older children. Try as much as possible to keep to the usual routines. If Daddy took your child to the park on a weekend it should continue.

We suggest that involving your child in routines, for example helping with bath or nappy changing helps them become more involved with the new baby.

Older children may feel insecure for a while and this may be revealed through changes in behaviour. This will probably just be for a time until they adjust. Be patient and understanding during this confusing time. Remember that it is a learning situation for your older child and this will be made easier if they are reassured of their importance and your love for them