Preparing my toddler for another baby

[Katie_0608]

My daughter will be only 18 mo. when I have the baby (another girl) and I'm not sure how to prepare her for another baby. She loves other babies (only if mommy isn't holding them). And as of right now, I ask her "where's the baby?" and she kisses my belly. I am not sure though that she understands that, that baby is going to come out eventually (in 11 weeks) and she will have to share her mother. And since she is still so young, I think it will be hard to sit her down and talk to her about it. So, what CAN i do?

[MrsZ]

My daughter was only 18mo when my son was born. She didn't really understand but she did know that there was a baby in my tummy. My mom stayed with her while my husband and I were at the hospital. When my mom brought her up to see him for the first time she also brought a new baby doll - the ones that look like newborns, it only had a diaper and blankt - and gave it to her so she had her "own baby." She loved that baby and carried it around for weeks. She fell in love with her baby brother and was actually very protective of him!! She still is and he is 20 months now. Your daughter will be great. They will always have times when they will fight or she will be jealous. Just make sure you make a special time for her each day. I would read or color with my daughter while my son was sleeping, it helped a lot. Anyway, I'm rambling! Best wishes to you!

[Katie_0608]

Hey thanks a lot for your help! I will definitely spend time with her. That is funny that you brought up the baby doll thing, because my mom just bought a baby Elmo- and he comes with a bottle (she loves Elmo) for her. Of course, she isn't going to get it until the baby is born, but my mom thought it would be a good idea. And my mom will also be watching my daughter while I am in the hospital. I am hoping that Joseline will do well with her little sister, and not try to beat her up within the first week I bring her home.