Fortunately, preparing for the birth of a second child can bring as much satisfaction as your first pregnancy. Of course, if your older child understands what everyone expects of you, it will reduce anxiety for both of you. It's good to be aware of the changes associated with the appearance of the second child and fully enjoy this joyful event.
What will change?
The second child in the family, the general care for two babies can be a challenge. Undoubtedly, all the people around you will have to take a more active part in caring for children. And your own schedule will vary considerably, depending on the needs and behavior of the younger and older children. You may face problems, since caring for an older child during pregnancy requires more energy. After the birth of the baby, the first 6-8 weeks can be particularly difficult in terms of caring for an older child and the various emotions associated with it.
One of the positive changes is that the birth of a second child will make you feel more confident in your abilities, knowledge and experience. What seemed difficult with the first child - breastfeeding, changing diapers or curing diseases - with the second will be done easily, as a hobby.
How will the birth of a second child affect you?
You will be affected both physically and emotionally. Increasing fatigue and anxiety is quite normal after the appearance of the second child. You, naturally, can feel tired, especially if you had difficult births or a cesarean section. If you work outside the home, you may feel insecure, worry about your career. Decide: it is important for you to return at this time to work, or not.
Do not be surprised if you feel anxiety for your second child. Many more parents often say that they feel alienated when the second child appears. You will notice that for you the time is either significantly reduced or even absent the first few months after the birth of the baby. Sleepless nights and everyday tension will be in great numbers, so if you have time for yourself it is a huge priority. You will notice that you spend less time with your partner, which is also not surprising.
Possible problems with the first child
Your first child falls into a range of emotions, such as jealousy, excitement and even resentment. Older children can verbally express their feelings and their behavior, which can not yet make a newborn. The older child can suddenly start sucking a thumb, drinking from a bottle or talking like a small child to get your attention. He expresses his feelings more sharply, refuses to eat, frequent outbursts of anger and bad behavior occur. These problems, as a rule, are passing. The joint game between the senior and junior is the best option at this stage, it plays a huge role in family relationships, so do not leave the problem on the shoulders of an older child. Too much attention to the baby, buying new furniture, clothes or toys will make your older child feel undervalued.
Tips for resolving the situation
This is a list of tips that will help you to better deal with the responsibilities and responsibilities associated with the second child in the family. Here are some things you can do even before the baby is born:
- Look for places that offer meals at home or prepare double portions of your loved ones' favorite dishes and freeze them. It is unlikely that after the birth of the baby in the family, you will be able to do homework - cooking;
- Reorganize your home laundry. Prepare separate baskets for each member of the family, because with the advent of another child in the house you will add washing;
- You can use the services of a nanny to help you in the first weeks after the birth of your second child. Sometimes it is just necessary if there are no close relatives who can help;
- Do not forget about yourself! Pamper yourself with a new haircut, bath by candlelight or music - this will help you relax. You deserve some pleasant moments alone with yourself.
After you and the other family members get used to the idea of having a second child, you will enjoy the positive aspects of your big family. Fears associated with the child will gradually recede into the background and life will sparkle with new colors.