Towards the delivery of their second child, some mothers begin to focus on preparing for the birth of their little one, so they often pay less attention to their eldest child. In fact, spending quality time with Sis before the baby is born is very important, you know, Bun.
The presence of a baby sister can indeed add to the happiness in the mother's family. However, don't let this moment make you neglect your first child, okay? They still need attention and preparation to be a good big brother.
Even though he is the eldest child, it doesn't mean he has to be automatically independent and doesn't need your mother's attention anymore. Regardless of age, your baby still needs to feel loved and cared for by his parents, especially his mother.
It's Important Quality Time with First Child
Having a second pregnancy when you already have a toddler is certainly a challenge, because you have to go through this while still taking care of your first child. Not to mention after the second child was born later.
It is also possible that the older sister who may not understand what a younger sister means to her will feel jealous when Mother's time and attention is taken up for her sister. Therefore, it is important for the mother to inform the older sibling that she will soon have a sibling before the birth of the younger sibling, even early in the pregnancy.
No less important, Mother must also pay attention to Sis. Even though now your attention is divided, remember that Sis Sis is the best teacher who taught you to be a mother for the first time. Thank him because this lesson can't be found in any classroom.
Also realize that even though he is the eldest child, it does not mean he is an adult and can take care of himself. He is still a child who idolizes his parents and wants love.
Do not let the older brother seek attention from the mother by misbehaving, hurting his sister, or even hurting himself. This can happen and of course will surprise you. However, Mother can avoid it by still dividing time for Sis.
Keep spending quality time or quality timefor him, such as listening to his chatter or playing with him, can make the Big Brother not feel neglected and isolated. He still gets Mother's attention, does not lack love, and feels valued for his existence.
By spending time with Sis, Mother knows what she feels, thinks, and wants. This can also make the emotional bond between Mother and Sibling stronger, you know.
Tips for Making Eldest Children Happy
The eldest child often carries the burden as the oldest child. Inadvertently, maybe the treatment you apply to your first child can make him discouraged and sad. The following are tips for bonding and building a good relationship with your first child:
1. Not demanding much
Even though he will soon have a sister, try not to always command and demand that he looks perfect. Even though he is the eldest son, he still thirsts for Mother's praise and attention. Therefore, do not forget to keep giving him love, attention, and praise when he has behaved well.
2. Make me nostalgic with the photo album
Towards the birth of the younger sibling, inviting the older sibling to reminisce with photos or videos while the mother takes care of him can be a way for him not to feel left behind. He knows how Mom and Dad used to take care of him with great love and understands that after this it will be his younger brother's turn.
3. Tell him about the family structure
Telling your mother or father's family structure to your brother can also be done as a quality time with him, you know. If you have a sister, this can be used as an example for her. Tell your sister what things you do as a sister, but of course without demanding.
4. Involve the older sibling in various activities with the younger sibling
If you already understand what a younger sibling means to him, it's okay to involve him occasionally in taking care of your younger sibling you know, Bun. Later it will be seen whether he is enthusiastic about his sister's presence or not. If he's excited, help him get to know his sister better.
Even though it's not easy to do, you still have to do and try to pay attention to your two babies fairly. Although it is undeniable, Mother's focus will be on the newborn sister. However, don't let Big Brother be alone, okay?
Even though he has become an older brother, it doesn't mean you can ask him to be more independent, especially if he is still a toddler. Forcing adulthood on young children can affect their mental health, you know.
If you feel a drastic or worrying change in behavior in your older sibling, especially after the baby is born, you should consult a child psychologist to get the right treatment.
