Having a new baby in the family can be hard on brothers and sisters. Here are some tips for easing the transition if you have other children:

• Try to spend some time alone with each child.
• If both of your children need you at the same time, consider taking care of the older child first. The baby's feelings will not be hurt if made to wait.
• Use feeling words with your older children so they can express their emotions. For example, saying something like, "I can see you're disappointed that Daddy can't read to you now" will help your older child learn to recognize his or her feelings.
• Allow your older children to help care for the new baby with tasks such as bringing diapers and putting on lotion.
• Talk to your new baby about his or her older siblings. You may want to say something to make your older child feel special such as, "You're so lucky to have a brother who can teach you how to walk."
• Interpret the baby's actions in a positive way. For example, "See how the baby is smiling at you. She likes you talking to her."
• Praise your older child's good behavior.
• Tell your children that you love them many times a day.
• Keep taking photographs of your older children by themselves rather than only focusing on the new baby.
• Let the older children hear you telling another adult how much you appreciate them.
• Don't be surprised if your older children regress or act immature for their age. This may be their way of asking for the kind of love you are giving the baby.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated January 20, 2010

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.