7. Buy A Gift For Your Older Child From Your New Baby
I first saw this idea a few years ago in a magazine and since then I have talked to multiple moms who have done this. They all have said that it really helps the older child feel better about a new baby joining the family. Sometimes, a new sibling that takes up most of mom’s and dad’s attention can be really hard on a child and they may resent the baby for that. A great way to get your child excited about their new sibling is by having the baby give your older child a present when they come to visit the hospital. This will not only make your older child feel more loved and special at a time where most attention is diverted elsewhere, but it also helps them like their new sibling a little more. Let’s be honest, kids all love getting presents, so you know they’ll certainly love it.
8. Have A Fun Family Outing For The Last Time
It’s important to cherish the last few weeks and days before your new baby arrives. You will no longer be just a family of two or three. Plus, things are about to get a lot more complicated and crazy. It will be some time before you’re able to go out and do fun things together and that can make some people a little stir crazy. Take advantage of the simpler time you have right now and do something special like go to the zoo, have a picnic, go to the beach, etc. It’ll be a time that you never forget.
9. Replace Batteries And Check Electronics
In case you have never noticed, babies require a lot of electronics, which means there are going to be a lot of things that will need batteries. You probably haven’t used any of those items in a very long time, but before you bring your baby home, check to make sure your baby monitor works, the bouncer or swing works, the noise machine works, etc. If they don’t, replace the batteries. If the product doesn’t have batteries, you may need to replace the whole thing. You might also want to check with the company to see if your product is under warranty because if it is, they may send you a new one.
10. Check Your Car Seat’s Expiration Date
In case you didn’t know, car seats actually have expiration dates. If you’re planning on reusing the one from your first child, or if you’re going to use one that has been donated to you, check the expiration date to make sure your child will be the safest as possible. You can usually find the expiration date on the back, bottom, or side of the car seat. If it is expired, you’re going to need to buy a new one, so you’ll need to start saving and planning for that, as well.