Sharing the news of your pregnancy with your children is an exciting time. How early you tell them would probably depend on how old they are. Telling a young child early in the pregnancy leaves them with a tremendously long wait before the big day.

Royale Hayat feels that it is beneficial that you wait at least until you’ve had your 12 week scan. If pregnancy sadly ends in miscarriage before 12 weeks, you would save your children a lot of upset. Older children and teenagers could be told earlier as it won’t seem like such a long time to them as well as the fact that they will be more aware of things that indicates your pregnancy.

Explaining the baby to younger children
Younger children will need to be explained to in simple terms and will need reassurance of how special they are and how the baby will not replace them. Where possible, involve them in the pregnancy; let them feel the baby move and let them help by choosing items such as baby clothes and toys. You could also ask for name suggestions.

You may find that the dreaded “Where do babies come from?” question is asked at some point. It would be useful to have a simple book to help you explain. ”

Telling older children
Older children will also benefit in being included in your pregnancy. Talk to them about the pregnancy and let them help you choose baby products. Maybe they could have a say on some of the bigger items such as the pram or the cot (it may be advisable to narrow it down to your favorite two or three models). Older children can feel just as insecure (if not more so) than little ones. They need to know how special and loved they are too.

Make sure they feel involved in family life and make time to talk to them about any worries and concerns they may have. Children and teenagers that present you with a don’t care attitude do care and are scared of rejection or getting hurt. So keep listening to their feelings and be patient and understanding.

Royale Hayat offers Parent Education Classes to help you and your family prepare for the birth of your new baby. For more information please call 25360587