A New Beginning

Arriving Home

Baby’s Discharge

PETS Pets can become jealous too. Remember they were your “first baby.” • Introduce the scent of your baby to your pet before you go home • Have your pets smell some of your baby’s clothing or supplies • When you first arrive home, have someone else hold the baby • Maintain a routine for your pet with walking, feeding, and playing • Never force your pet to interact with your baby • Install a sturdy barrier if your baby’s room is off limits • Ask your veterinarian for more advice or suggestions SIBLINGS Preparing siblings before baby comes home • Talk about the arrival of the baby • Try to be realistic — explain that the baby will eat, sleep, and cry most of the time • Read stories to younger siblings about new brothers or sisters • Have them practice holding a doll and supporting the head When you bring baby home from the hospital: • Have the new baby and sibling exchange gifts • Have several small gifts on hand to give to your child when visitors bring a gift for the baby • Give special jobs or chores they can do to help with the baby’s care • Tell them how special they are and give them lots of attention

Safety Tips

• Show your older child how to properly hold baby and support their head

• Supervise siblings when they are with baby • Never leave baby alone with a young child • Never let baby sleep with a sibling

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Chapter 11: Baby’s Discharge