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Happy National Siblings Day!
The arrival of a new baby brings challenges and changes to a family. As parents spend time and energy on preparations, most of the attention involves the soon-to-be newborn. Even after the baby is born, it's hard not to put the most energy and attention to the newest member of the family - but how to prepare the soon-to-be older sibling on how to be a good big sister or brother is just as important! Change can be hard for older siblings to handle and it's common for them to feel jealousy towards the newborn and try to gain the attention of parents by acting out.
But parents can prepare kids for an addition to the family. Discussing the pregnancy in terms that make sense to kids, making some arrangements, and including kids in the care of the newborn can make things easier for everyone... But there's nothing quite like having the older sibling prepare for a younger brother or sister with a baby doll.
Here's how baby dolls can help older siblings prepare for a new baby:
- Dolls help older siblings feel good about being "big helpers"
- Older siblings love having something of their own to care for
- Improves communication skills
- Caring for a doll will emphasize the importance of family
- Dolls build love and empathy as they learn to care for their baby doll
- Older siblings will feel proud of doing things on their own
- Builds confidence and enhanced role playing experiences
- Dolls help build role-playing responsibilities
- Gives older siblings a sense of importance
- Dolls help siblings realize that the baby is new and unique to them too
- Prevents jealousy and regression
- Older siblings get a head start in babysitting training
- Dolls help older siblings feel included and less jealous
- Playing with dolls with create memories that last a lifetime
- Dolls make older siblings feel more involved
- Makes being an older sibling FUN!