In a way, I felt like my ship is sinking slowly .This was expected to be a joyful and harmonious time in our lives. Yet, managing for a toddler and newborn questioned me in ways I never expected.

When a younger sibling of 4 year old toddler is born, he may face a blend of conflicting emotions. Some 4- years – old might feel genuinely excited about the arrival of their baby brother or sister. They may look forward to having a playmate, helping with baby- related tasks and being a “big brother”.

It’s common for a 4 year old to have mixed emotions , including joy, jealousy, confusion and even anxiety. They might be excited for the new baby but at the same time worried about the changes it will bring to their routine and attention.

Now you are parenting two children of different age group with different demands.Your 4 year old suddenly starts behaving more like a baby because he is going under a lot of changes in his life and on the other hand your new born has needs too: feeding , sleeping , comforting, bathing. The change from the womb to the outer world is as challenging for him as it is for you.

CHALLENGES FOR TODDLERS AND HOW WE AS A PARENT CAN HELP THEM DURING NEWBORN AND TODDLER PHASE:

1: Toddler starts behaving aggressively towards newborn:

Toddlers is going through a massive changes all around him. Now all of sudden he has to share everything with the newborn , specially his MOM and its not easy for him.. He doesnt know to express the fear and emotions so , sometimes he may react aggressively. For example he may try to throw something on the baby or he may try to hit him with his hands.In such situation we should try to protect our both child. Here one can use LANGUAGE OF LISTENING APPROCH. We can encourage them to interact peacefully. We can give them alternative option where he can bring his anger on frustrations out. For example we can say them if u really want to bite or hit the baby, you can hit this pillow. Your brother doesnt like your aggressive or rough touch. For some emotional charged toddlers NON VERBAL COMMUNICATION works brilliantly like thumbs up or thumbs down, squat down at the same level of ur child and listen, smiling and listening etc.

Each time when the toddler tries to control his behaviour and make better choices , don not forget to appreciate their effort. This will give them more strength. So, by redirecting the anger and frustration of the toddler to the better options, we can protect our both of the kids.

2: Toddler acts like a baby

Suddenly, when the newborm comes into the life of the toddler, we expect from our elder one to act like a BIG BOY. I think this is our mistake. That little boy also needs time to breathe and accept the changes. And the process of becoming a big responsible brother is very challenging for him . And out of mixed emotions and confusions he starts behaving like a BABY. He shows tantrums , become cranky, may shout or cry. At this moment when we know that our newborn needs us we should not forget to give our affection and attention to the toddler too.

Set aside 15 -20 mins to play with your toddler , or involve with him when your husband is around or when newborn is taking a nap. Let him behave like a baby. Cuddle him, play games, interact with him, feed him. There is a great possibility that this 15 -20 mins will help him to understand his big brother role.

LETS LOOK INTO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE SITUATION:

If there are some problematic issues under such newborn n toddler phase , there are also some sparkling moments that i had experienced when my second one was born.. and i want to share with you all.

As the newborn comes into your life, the toddler often helps in bridging connections between the whole family members. Their excitement about the baby can help grandparents, aunt, uncles and friends to connect with the new addition.

Toddler playfull nature can bring joy and entertainment for the baby. Their antics and interaction can bring smile and laughter on newborn’s face.

Over the period of time , toddler and the newborn can develop the unique bond. Toddler’s presence can contribute to a loving sibling relationship as they grow older.

Me as a parent ,can rely on my toddler for the support .It is very important as a parent to acknowledge and encourage these positive behaviour of the toddler while providing guidance and support to deal with the changes.

This can foster a positive family dynamics and make the transition smoother for everyone involved.