Having a baby while also caring for a child can feel stressful. You may be worrying about how your child will be whilst you go into hospital. Maybe you are awake at night wondering how they will adjust to the new baby. I hope my experience as a mama of five helps you as I share my tips for preparing for a calm labor with your second baby.
My Calm and Simple Tips for Labor with your Second Baby
1. Books about a new baby arriving
Have a look at your local library or find some books online about a new baby in the family (suitable for your child’s age). Reading these together will be a bonding experience with your child and it helps you both to prepare for your new baby in a relaxed way. You can feel excited together about the new baby.
2.Write out your child’s schedule!
If you are going to have your baby in hospital it will help to know that the details of your child’s day are all written down for whoever needs them. I would write out the schedule for the day and stick it to my kitchen cupboards. Include snack times, meal times, bed time, favourite books or tv programmes. Wherever your child will be going when you go into labor its worth letting that person know in advance what your daily routines are. This helps to keep some normality for your child.
3. Allow your child to help you prepare
Be relaxed and cheerful with your child as you talk through what you are doing to prepare. Allow them to help with your hospital bag, knitting baby clothes, or decorating a nursery. If your attitude is joyful and calm as you share these experiences together it will really help you prepare as a family.
4. Don’t worry too much!
Labor will be less of a mystery this time because you have some idea of what to expect. Even if you had a hard first labor it still makes a difference to know the process. Trust what your body is doing and try to relax.
5. Don’t buy your child loads of gifts!
Buying your child lots of gifts to make up for the fact that they are having a sibling sends the wrong message. Help your child to see this new baby as a blessing and a gift to the family.
6. Learn from your First Labor
It is worth trying to remember things that you found really helpful the first time round. There may have been an essential oil you loved, or you may have needed or wanted something that you hadn’t brought to the hospital.
Most of all, just enjoy this wonderful new adventure together.
If you would like to read more related to pregnancy and birth, why not check out these posts:
10 Things you Should Know about a Natural Birth
How to Write a Simple Pregnancy To Do List
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