Which activity best promotes adjustment of other children to a new baby?

• A. Limit involvement of children in care.
• B. Let the older children take over infant care.
• C. Special time for the other children without interruption from the newborn.
• D. Encourage the mother to do all care.

Answer: (C)

Fostering siblings’ adjustment to a new baby hinges on giving the other children focused, uninterrupted time with the family. When there is special time for the older children without the newborn present, they receive attention, reassurance, and a place to share their feelings about the new baby. This helps them feel valued, reduces jealousy, and strengthens their sense of belonging in the family. It also models that the baby is part of the family unit, not a substitute for parental love.

Limiting involvement, letting older children take over infant care, or insisting the mother do all care can either exclude siblings, create safety concerns, or neglect the needed bonding experience for the older child.