A PART Parents often consider timing when they are planning a new child. Some experts believe that children between 18 months and three years old have the hardest time adjusting to new siblings. Children under 18 months may have fewer problems because they don't realize how life is changing for them. Parents should think about these things, but they should make their decision based on what will work best for the entire family. It's important to prepare children for a new child.
Most parents read books about new babies to their children.
Parents may also introduce their children to newborns when they have the opportunity, and they may talk about what a new baby can and cannot do. If the family is adding an older child through adoption or foster care, the same sorts of activities will help children prepare. Activities like these can also occur in child care settings. You probably should include some of these stories and discussions if you're aware that a child in your group is expecting a new sibling. Many hospitals offer sibling preparation classes.