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family values lp! HeMy Toddler is Jealous of My Newborn! by elaine stone T he birth of a child is the most blessed experience on earth. Yet, it holds challenges. It���s an emotional time of adjustment for parents and children. The introduction of a new member changes every family dynamic. Time and understanding are needed to reach new balance and harmony. Jealousy among siblings dates to Adam and Eve and every family expert considers it ���NORMAL.��� Realizing jealousy is ���normal��� does not erase it���s tumultuous effects. Mom and Dad are sleep deprived. The newborn is adjusting to life outside the womb. Company is in and out. Everyone is fawning over the precious babe and sweet toddler���s life has been completely changed in one day ... a perfect storm. Imagine for a minute this world from the toddler���s viewpoint. He is in love with his mother and father. They are the first humans on earth he has learned to love. They have nurtured him. Doted over him. Cared for all his needs. They are his best friends. He depends on them each day for everything. His life is defined by two words, ���Mom��� and ���Dad���. Then, one day, Mom disappears to someplace called a hospital, shaking his small world by her absence. And, that day, a new baby comes into his family. He senses the change in his household already. Dad or Grandma is trying to fill in for Mom, but do things differently. People are giving congratulations and calling him a ���big brother,��� which lacks meaning. He wants to see his Mom. When he does, there is someone else in her arms. Imagine the upheaval in this toddler���s secure predictable world. Everything has changed. It is understandable that his reactions and actions will mirror his inexpressible feelings. Life is confusing and has just handed him an ���upside-down card.��� 24 Fredericksburg Parent and Family ��� January 2013 Prime Toddlers for a New Baby Prepare for a new baby. ���Include him in discussions. ���Explain how a baby acts, how life will change and what role he will play. ���Reassure that he is not being replaced, but the baby is an addition. Rehearse the changes. ���Gather any books you can find on the topic and read together. ���Teach about holding, feeding, diapering and burping. ���Explain the hospital stay and how home will function in Mom���s absence. Include your toddler in the baby���s life. ��� Teach about soft touches. ��� Show how to give the newborn a massage. ��� Let them help burp the baby and gather wipes and diapers Model a loving attitude. ���Using loving and affirming words will boost his confidence navigating this new territory. ���Cheer on his efforts and compliment his positive behavior. Expect ... Toddler Behavior ��� Allow him to be a toddler. Instant maturity is unrealistic. ��� Individual time with Mom and Dad separately are essential. It shows importance. ��� Boundaries are necessary and bring security. Keep reasonable limits for his behavior.