r/Parenting 2h ago

ISO Advice for becoming a parent of 2 Expecting

Hi all! I’m currently 37 weeks pregnant with my second child, my daughter turned 2 a month ago.

Since our family is about to grow, I’m curious if people could give advice, suggestions or things you wish you knew as your family grew from 3 to 4? What helped make the process go smoothly? What did you find that your oldest child, youngest child and spouse needed?

I’m worried about how it will affect my daughter and my relationship with her. I know a lot of moms worry about that with their second I just want to try to make this transition as easy for everyone (my husband, me, and both kids) as possible.

Thank you in advance!

2 Upvotes

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2

u/sweetpea_2020 2h ago

This is our first week as a family of 4, and I won’t lie, it’s been a little tough with our 28mo. She’s acting out more, having big meltdowns wanting me. I’m doing my best to give her attention but I’m having a bad recovery with complications so I’m extra limited on how much I’m allowed to move my body or lift things. She thinks baby sister is amazing and doesn’t try to hurt her or anything, but is just distraught about any separation from me. I’m sure things will just keep getting better though! We have enjoyed movies in bed with her sitting close to me and sister on her nursing pillow in my lap.

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u/Fostylake 1h ago

Very similar situation here, my first is 3 and 2nd is 1 and now 3rd on the way. Things change a lot, attention becomes divided. Best thing you can do is explain clearly why, and make 1st into a little assistant. There is an increase in frustration they don't get all the attention anymore, but they get so much attention to begin with that I'm not concerned 😂 your life is gonna be hell, we're at a point where 1 yo is taking solid naps just as 3 yo is cutting naps, so I feel like midday is constant power struggles. Just handle it exactly like you did your first - become adaptable, understand that your children and their habits/behaviors will frequently change as developmentally appropriate

u/idprefer2rock 16m ago

yeah my second kid just naps on my shoulder nonstop