Your older child needs your attention! Here are six simple ideas that can help you find quality time to spend with them.
1. Set aside time in your schedule. For example, while Dad or another helping adult gives the baby a bath, spend some time with your older child. You can read together, play, or just snuggle and talk about your day [1].
2. Ask your older child to sit with you when you feed the baby. While the baby is quietly nursing, you can tell your older child a fairy tale, listen to their favorite music, or quietly sit together. It will help your older child feel closer to you [2].
3. Once a month or every two weeks, go to a cafe, museum, or favorite place. This time will help you keep in touch with your older child’s development, sense of humor, and new interests. In a word, to see them and their personality [3].
4. Invite your older child to take care of the baby with you. Keep it simple, and have them do easy things (pass you a diaper, for example). If things don’t work out as you thought, don’t press [4]. Children don't have to be “mom's helpers” if they are not ready or up to it.
5. When possible, take your older child to a concert, the movies, a sporting event, or an activity they enjoy. It will show them that you are still interested in the things they enjoy [5]. The baby can come along, but the main focus is the shared experience with your older child.
6. Take turns caring for the baby with a partner or helper. It's good for everyone! The baby gets used to being around different people , Mom gets a break from the routine and has some time to give the older child the attention they need. To find out how you can get help if there is no budget for a babysitter, read here .
