National Siblings Day is an annual celebration in the United States that occurs on April 10th. The day is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the relationships between siblings.
It was created by Claudia Evart in honor of her siblings, both of whom she lost at a young age, and is now recognized by many people across the country. The day is an opportunity for siblings to show appreciation for one another and to celebrate the bond they share.
Including older siblings during a pregnancy can help them feel involved and excited about the upcoming arrival of a new sibling. Here are a few ideas to help siblings feel included.
Encourage them to be involved in preparing for the baby’s arrival: Encouraging siblings to be involved in preparing for the baby’s arrival can help them feel included and excited about the upcoming changes in the family. You can start by asking for their input and ideas about the baby’s name or the nursery decor.
You can also invite them to help with tasks like setting up the crib or choosing baby clothes. Consider taking them to prenatal appointments so they can hear the baby’s heartbeat or see an ultrasound. You can also involve them in planning for the baby shower or a special welcome home celebration. By including siblings in these activities, you’re not only helping them feel involved but also fostering a sense of responsibility and care towards the new family member.
Have them participate in fun activities related to the pregnancy: There are many fun activities that can help siblings feel included before the baby comes. For example, you could have them create a special craft or artwork for the new baby’s room. You could also have a sibling photo shoot to capture memories of them before and after the baby arrives. Consider taking them on a shopping trip to pick out a special gift for the new baby or planning a special outing for just the siblings before the baby comes. Additionally, reading books about becoming a big brother or sister can be a fun activity that also helps them prepare for their new role in the family. By involving siblings in these activities, you can help them feel excited and valued as they anticipate the arrival of the new baby.
Talk to them about the changes that are happening: It’s important to explain to siblings what’s happening during the pregnancy and how the baby will change things for the family. Be sure to answer any questions they may have and address any concerns they may express.
Read books about becoming a big brother/sister: There are many books available that can help siblings understand what to expect when a new baby arrives. Reading these books together can help them feel more prepared and excited about the new addition to the family.
Remind them how great they are with affirmations: Affirmations can be a helpful tool to help siblings feel included and important before the baby comes. By using positive and encouraging words, you can help build their confidence and excitement for their new role in the family. For example, you could say, “You’re going to be such a great big brother/sister!” or “We’re so lucky to have you as a part of our family.” You could also affirm their contributions to the family by saying things like, “Thank you for helping us get ready for the baby. Your input is so valuable.” Affirmations help siblings feel valued and appreciated, which can help them feel more connected to the family as a whole, even as things begin to change with the arrival of a new baby.
Make them feel special: Centering siblings before a new baby can help them feel included and valued as part of the family. One way to do this is to plan special activities and outings that focus on their interests and preferences.
This could include things like taking a trip to their favorite park or museum, having a special movie or game night, or planning a one-on-one date with each child. It’s also important to have open and honest conversations about the upcoming changes, and to encourage siblings to share their feelings and concerns. Including them in preparations for the new baby, such as shopping for baby items or decorating the nursery, can also help them feel involved and excited. By centering siblings before the new baby arrives, you’re helping them feel seen and heard during this important transition in the family.
Siblings can be birth supporters if given the opportunity within the birth space.
Some birth spaces do allow siblings to be present and involved in the birth process, depending on the parents’ preferences and the policies of the facility. If allowed, siblings can be a helpful presence during the birth by:
Offering emotional support: Siblings can offer words of encouragement and comfort during the labor process, which can be reassuring for the mother.
Helping with tasks: Depending on their age, siblings can help with tasks like getting ice chips, offering a cool washcloth, or helping to position pillows for the mother.
Cutting the umbilical cord: Older siblings may be able to help cut the baby’s umbilical cord (with close supervision and guidance).
Holding the baby: Once the baby is born, siblings can be the first to hold the new baby and offer them comfort and affection.
Allowing siblings to be hands-on during the birth process can help them feel included and connected to the new baby from the very beginning. However, it’s important to consider the age and maturity of the sibling, and to ensure that their involvement is safe and appropriate for their abilities.
Siblings and Postpartum
Overall, including siblings in the pregnancy process can help them feel included and excited about the new addition to the family. Small children may not be able to help with all of the tasks associated with postpartum care, but they can still play a valuable role. One way they can help is by assisting with small tasks around the house, such as picking up toys or helping to load the dishwasher. They can also offer emotional support by spending time with the new baby and showing affection towards their new sibling. Older siblings can be involved in caring for the baby by helping with diaper changes or bottle feeding (with supervision and guidance). Additionally, small children can be a source of joy and distraction during a time when the new parent may be feeling overwhelmed or tired. Simply spending time playing together or reading a book can be a valuable contribution during the postpartum period.