How can I prepare my older child for a new sibling?

Start by talking to your older child about the arrival of his or her new sibling. Explain in age-appropriate terms how the baby is growing, and ask him or her to help you set up the baby's nursery. Enroll in a hospital sibling class designed for children and parents to learn together about what it means to become a new sibling.

Explain to your older child that the baby will eat, sleep and cry most of the time. The baby won't be a playmate right away.

If your child will need to change rooms or move out of the crib to make space for the new baby, do so before the baby is born. This will give your older child a chance to get used to the new setup before dealing with the baby's arrival. Try to complete your older child's toilet training before the baby is born or wait until a few months after you bring your baby home to start the process.

Arrange for your older child's care during your time in the hospital or birth center, and let your child know that you will go away briefly and return. If possible, arrange a time for your child to visit the hospital or birth center ahead of time to remove some of the mystery.