Second Baby: How to Plan for your Second Child?

Should You Do Anything Differently When Planning for Your Second Baby?

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Are you planning for baby number two?

Welcoming a new baby to your home is no less exciting the second time, but it definitely comes with new challenges. You’ve still got to do all the usual baby prepping, only now you’ve got a little one at home who needs your time and attention. It’ll be a bit of a balancing act, but you’ve got this! 

5 Tips for Preparing for Your Second Baby

In a few years, your firstborn won’t be able to imagine a life without their little brother or sister, but right now, they probably find it hard to picture their life with the new baby. You can help prepare them for the change (and even look forward to it!) by:

• Reading children’s books to them about becoming a big sibling.
• Giving them time and space to ask questions.
• Asking for their input on decor, toys, and clothes for the new baby.
• Getting them a small gift “from” the new baby.

This time around, you won’t have as much time to catch up on baby prep after delivery (not that you had loads of time in the first place!) Start early. Bring all your old baby things out of storage and decide what you want to keep, sell, and donate. Then, set up the nursery and make a list of what you still need, such as a double stroller, baby carrier, or new clothes. 

Once the baby is born, things like grocery runs and meal prep will get a bit more complicated. As you get closer to your delivery date, you can give your postpartum self a little present by stocking your house with:

• Household essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, laundry soap (for you and baby), and cleaning supplies.
• Toiletries, such as body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste.
• Food, including snacks, non-perishables, and frozen foods.

Pro tip: Cook and freeze foods before your delivery date for easy, budget-friendly, and nutritious meal options after the baby is born.

You won’t be a family of three for much longer, so go ahead! Take some family photos, go on vacation, or start a fun new weekend tradition. Anything that helps your child feel included and shows them how special they are to you.

If you have a partner or co-parent, try splitting responsibilities before giving birth. Get on the same page about how you’ll work together to care for both your children — and pets, if you have any — and do household chores.

While you’re at it, decide together who’ll watch your firstborn during your delivery and hospital stay. Then, check in with them so everyone knows exactly what to do when you go into labor.

Big changes are coming for your little family of three. Preparing for a second baby can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you can do this! And, as you watch your children grow up together and form that special sibling bond, you’ll be so happy you did.

If you’re still waiting to find out whether your child’s going to have a little brother or sister, click here to learn how our Juno Birch™ Fetal Gender Test can help.

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JunoDx.com and the materials and information it contains are not intended to be and do not constitute medical advice, other health advice, or diagnosis.  Do not use JunoDx.com or the materials and information published at JunoDx.com as a substitute for medical care and treatment. You should always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare provider about your specific circumstances.