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Getting Maddy adjusted to baby

Veronica & Eddie on Kids & Pets - Wed, May 21 2008

With the big delivery day drawing ever nearer, (I have about ten weeks left. My due date is July 26th) I have begun to contemplate how Madison will adjust to the new addition to our family, and how I can help ease that adjustment.

Some tips I have picked up on Indymoms:
*Play clips of crying babies loudly to get Maddy used to the sound.
*Give Maddy something that smells like the baby (like a hat or blanket) a day or so before we bring him home.
*When we first introduce them, have someone cuddle Maddy and give her treats, and let her sniff the baby and check him out.
*Don't be stressed and anxious about keeping her away from the baby.
*Teach the baby to stay away from Maddy's crate so that she knows that is her safe place where she can get away from him if she needs to.

Any other tips?

Stacy on May 21 at 09:17 PM

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I have no clue (I don't have kids), but I wanted to wish you best of luck!! When my niece was born, I had such admiration for my sister-in-law. The whole thought of giving birth freaks me out!

Veronica & Eddie on May 21 at 09:20 PM

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Stacy said:
I have no clue (I don't have kids), but I wanted to wish you best of luck!! When my niece was born, I had such admiration for my sister-in-law. The whole thought of giving birth freaks me out!

Thank you. :) lol Trust me, the thought of giving birth freaks me out too. I just have to trust in my body and remember that women have been doing it for thousands of years.

Amber on May 21 at 09:46 PM

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We don't have any yet either, but probably w/ in the next year, so let me know how it goes. One other tip I've heard from people, especially w/ dogs w/ long ears (I know Maddy doesn't have these, but I thought I'd let you know anyway), people have told me to tug gently on Eddie's ears. They're long, so it'll be the first thing that the baby would probably grab. Just a tip...

Ojo on May 21 at 10:39 PM

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Cesar teaches dogs to respect the baby's room door as a line of do not cross. Saftey of her crate is important for Maddy. And, just like new dogs, lots of walks together so she gets used to the whole stroller / crying thing while distracted with her walk. It's the idea of keeping the mind occupied in distraction theory.

Debbie on May 21 at 10:41 PM

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Veronica & Eddie said:
Thank you. :) lol Trust me, the thought of giving birth freaks me out too. I just have to trust in my body and remember that women have been doing it for thousands of years.

Don't be freaked out! Trust me...your body will know what to do!! Those are all great tips. As long as you stay relaxed around Maddie while holding your baby, not acting like you're afraid that Maddie will hurt him/her, she'll be fine. Did you know that your baby can hear Madeline barking now? When we brought our daughter home, she never flinched at Kirby's barking!! Good luck, having a baby is the most amazing experience. I loved being pregnant.

Joann on May 22 at 01:43 AM

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I have to agree with Debbie....although it was many many MANY years ago....it was a wonderful experience. I know it's somewhat hectic, but try and relax and enjoy every day...just like you enjoy Maddie.

Anne on May 22 at 08:24 AM

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My friend who just had a baby (and has a basset) used to take her dog on walks with an empty stroller to get Francis used to walking with the stroller... that way it wasn't a foreign object to her and it was easier for the 3 of them to walk!

Tiffany on May 22 at 09:36 AM

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I tried this. When you get home from the hospital, you go in and greet Princess Madison first. Give her hugs, loves, treats. Your husband then comes in with the new baby after a few minutes. This way she knows you still love her and she still has a place with you.

dreya on May 22 at 10:30 AM

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We don't have any kids either but I think those tips are great. We are so excited for you guys! Good Luck with everything!!

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