Rachel Goodchild suggests some tactics
For some children, the thought of a new sibling is an exciting possibility.
For others, it is a terrifying time of change, uncertainty and concern. But teachers and carers can work with parents to reduce the stresses on both them and their young children during this challenging time.
For many staff, the first time they hear about the impending arrival of a new baby is when the older child announces it. It is advisable to take parents quietly to one side to confirm this news as children sometimes get the wrong end of the stick. Rather than asking straight out, it is better to relate the story of what the child has said. This allows parents to avoid confirmation if they wish to do so.
As the time of the birth draws near, ask parents to fill you in on who will be picking up the older child. Make sure any release forms are prepared.
If possible, ask to meet the person who will be responsible for the temporary care of the child. Introduce yourself and assist in any transitions the child has between nursery and a new person dropping them off or picking them up.
Some children will regress or display inappropriate behaviour leading up to or just after the birth of the baby. Most children react in this way because they are missing one-to-one interactions with their parents during the day.
Even if other children become involved in a chosen activity, such as reading a book or setting up a train set, the child in question will enjoy having an adult around who provides special attention. This also allows the teacher to relate to the child on a deeper level and, if necessary, help them to process their thoughts.
With negative behaviours it is important to respond as you would at any other time. This will help the child to understand that even though things may have changed at home, there are some places that can be relied on to remain constant.
Most children are positive about the arrival of a new baby, at least initially. It is important to help the child to remain positive through the pregnancy and after the birth.
There are several theme-based activities which it is a good idea to repeat on a regular basis for children from such families. These include:
* Dramatic play activities, including play with baby dolls. Provide baths to wash the baby, nappies, places to 'breastfeed' (or bottles, if desired), strollers and clothes.
* Talk to children about how to carry babies and how much they need an adult to look after them.
Using photos and stories
* Regular discussions during mat times on how children grow and change are important to create a sense of the normality of development. In one nursery school, children are photographed on an ongoing basis to add to their record books. On their fifth birthday they are presented with a copy of the book, which documents how they have grown in front of the other children.
This promotes discussion on how each child grows, develops and changes, and children learn to embrace development rather than fear it.
* Ask children to supply baby photos for display and talk about how each baby has grown into a child who can walk, talk and do much more.
Making cards
* Once the baby has arrived it can be a positive exercise to help the older child make a card for the mother and baby. This can be completed as a special activity, with the special materials that are often reserved for such occasions. While making the card, staff can use the opportunity to talk through the child's perception of what is really going on and encourage discussion of any potential problems. If necessary, these can be reported back to the person picking the child up at the end of the day.
Sharing traditions
* With children from a diverse range of cultures, the arrival of a new baby is an ideal opportunity for other children to find out what is considered important at a birth in different cultures. Involve the older child as a resource to share information with other children. This helps them to talk through the situation while honouring their traditions and culture. NW See our Parent's guide on page 15 '
