Helping Children Overcome Jealousy For A New Baby

Helping kids overcome jealousy is one way to make sure it doesn’t turn into something more complicated. Jealousy is normal in children. As a result, parents may be very concerned and find it difficult to deal with.

There are many reasons why a child is jealous, but the arrival of a new brother or sister is one of the main reasons.

Jealousy in children should not be seen as something negative. In fact it is a reflection of the fact that the child feels connected to his family. The child is concerned that he will lose the love and affection of his parents. Still, it is important to discuss these feelings.

Although parents often worry about their children being jealous of their brother or sister, they do not prepare their child for the arrival of the new baby. Avoiding jealousy is just as important as helping children overcome jealousy that rears its ugly head.

Let’s look at  some of the ways we help children overcome jealousy and master their fear.

How to make the customization process easier

We know that not all children react the same way to a new sibling. Some are jealous and others hide it. Some kids are anything but jealous.

That is why it is important to talk to your children before the arrival of their little brother or sister. In short, help them adapt to this change in their lives.

Before your baby is born, your child should be aware of the upcoming changes. They may not have thought about how their life will change at all. That is why it is important to tell them this.

The care and attention a newborn needs will consume a lot of your time and energy. Don’t let this overwhelm your child. 

We can’t tell kids how to feel about the new baby. Be patient, understanding, and tolerant of their emotions. Your child may soon get over his jealousy. Be attentive but don’t worry too much about it.

Once your baby is home, your child will better understand what you have explained to him. Now is the time to help them adapt to the new situation.

Some families choose to limit or monitor contact between their children. This until the eldest child’s emotional state has stabilized. 

Helping children overcome jealousy

Children don’t change their mind easily, especially if they don’t get the right guidance. Patience and love are the keys to overcoming jealousy.

Below are some useful tips:

• Encourage the older child to spend time with the baby. Let them hold or touch the baby – always supervised, of course.
• Make sure that when family and friends visit,  they also pay attention to your other child. Don’t just let them pay attention to the newborn. 
• Avoid letting the baby take over your child’s space. Don’t let them give up their personal space for the new baby.
• Give your child individual attention every day. Make sure he doesn’t feel left out. Keep doing things together.
• Accept that they relapse into a young child ‘s behavior. For example, asking for a bottle. The best thing to do is – without too much interest – to just answer those questions.

• Be kind to both children. Don’t neglect either of them. On the other hand, you should also not spoil the older child. They get the feeling that what they are doing is right.
• Try not to yell at your older child if he is playing rough with the baby. Be firm and clear about what can and cannot be done.
• Invite the older child to help care for the baby. This helps them bond with their sibling. They will also realize that the baby has certain needs that require more attention.
• Your older child will appreciate it if you give him a privilege especially for older children.

Depending on how your child is, he would adapt fairly quickly to the presence of his new sibling. Nevertheless, you should remain alert for inappropriate or exaggerated behavior.