Your baby is growing up fast but she is still your little girl. But your little girl will be a big sister soon. Big sisters come with big responsibilities. It can be quite an adjustment for a little one who just left her own bottle behind. How will everyone respond to a change in family dynamics?
When my daughter was about to become a big sister for the first time, my husband and I were concerned with jealousy issues. We were told to expect regression and poor behavior to gain attention. We wanted to have a plan in place to make the transition as easy as possible. So we got all the children’s books explaining the life of a big sister. We told her how special she was and that no matter what nothing could replace her. I don’t think the idea of becoming a big sister really sunk in until her new baby brother moved in. Once she saw him she knew a real live little brother was now part of the family.
She responded very well. She was more curious then anything else. A few times she acted like a baby to get the attention her baby brother was getting. But we explained how we loved the little girl she had become. We made sure to spend time with just her doing things kids do and not what babies do. We resisted fawning all over the baby all the time. However, we did not hide our affection and included her in it so she felt connected to him and a family love. In addition, I allowed her to help out whenever possible. She brought me diapers, wipes, and baby toys. She helped organize his toys and even pick out his clothes. She loved her new role as a big sister. We praised her for being such a help and ever since she has been a great help to two more little sisters.