If you already have a toddler and are expecting a new baby, it is essential to prepare your toddler for the arrival of a new addition to your family.

Since your toddler has been center of your life until this point, a new addition to your family may raise possessiveness in your toddler.

Because they are used to lots of attention, toddlers will need reassurance that they are not being replaced by the new baby.

Here are a few ways to prepare your toddler for the addition of a new baby to your family:

Talk to your toddler about his/her birth: Discuss with your toddler how you felt at the time of his birth.

Show him photos of his first bath, feeding and being loved by others. Seek his help in completing all these tasks when his new sibling arrives.

Take your toddler to prenatal visits: If you take your toddler to your regular prenatal visits, s/he will know the reason why you are regularly going to hospital. This can also help a toddler to prepare emotionally for his/her new sibling.

Encourage your toddler to talk to the baby in your tummy: This can help your toddler to develop love and affection towards the new baby.

Explain the importance of being big brother or sister to your toddler. By doing this you can develop a sense of responsibility in your toddler. Don’t forget to make your toddler take part in the newborn’s arrival and helping care for the child.