Spreading the News
Telling your children that you are having a baby
If you have other children, you do want to make sure that you tell them before strangers recognize your pregnancy by the size of your abdomen.
As you know, your younger children may be excited about a younger brother or sister, or may not have a positive reaction at all. Here is a rule of thumb.
| under 3 years old | As your stomach gets much larger, you can talk about a new brother or sister, especially if your child expresses an interest in your growing stomach, but you don’t need to go into much detail at all. |
| 3 to 6 | Tell them when your belly really starts to show or you can feel the movement. This way, the wait is not as long for your child as it is for everyone else. However, if you are having a more difficult time with your pregnancy (lots of morning sickness, bedrest, etc.) let your child know what is going on so they won’t worry.
It is important to remember that a baby still inside “mommy’s tummy” is kind of confusing for a young child. The simplest way to tell your child is just to say that you are having a baby and that she or he will be a big sister or brother. If this child has been the baby for 3 or more years, take particular care to explain that the new baby will not take her place and that he or she is “still your baby”. |
| 7 to 10 | You could wait until they can see the changes in your belly. Also keep in mind, they might find out from someone else. If there is a chance of this, it is better that you tell them first.
Children are able to understand more about “the birds and the bees”, but if you are not comfortable giving them all the facts yet, let your child’s questions guide you. Answer what they want to know in just enough detail that satisfies them. |
| 10 to 12 | Some children at this age won’t have a lot of interest in the pregnancy or new baby except to the extent that it disrupts his or her life. If your child is interested, certain involve him or her in the planning. If not, still make sure to make specific time with your tween to do his or her favorite activity. This is excellent for maintaining harmony and reinforcing what a wonderful child he or she is.
If your child does not know already, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss how babies are made as well as sexual health responsibility. |
| Teens | This not-quite-adult may be excited about a new baby or completely upset or both depending on the day of the week. Take the opportunity on the good days to shop, decorate or clean. On the bad days, try to get them to talk.You may find their turmoil has nothing to do with new baby at all. |
No matter your child’s age, the most important thing is to remember to reassure your child, many times, that you will still love him or her just as much even after the baby is born. Children like to be reassured that they will not lose their place in their parents’ hearts.
Tags: 
Discussion
No comments for “Telling your children that you are having a baby”
Post a comment