Catholic Activity: Explaining a New Baby to Children

If you are expecting a new baby, show your children your joy and excitement over this new member of their family. Be honest and prudent in response to your children's inevitable questions about this newcomer.

DIRECTIONS

An older child can share the unforgettable experience of anticipation and preparation when a new baby is on the way. He will be interested in the little garments he sees in Mother's hands. He. will want to touch them and will notice that they are much too small for him. He may ask, "Was I ever little enough to wear clothes like these?"

Other questions may come. You should answer all of them honestly and without hesitation. If he asks, "Where do babies come from?" the answer is obvious: "From God." Very likely he will not inquire further. If he is old enough to realize that his mother carries a new brother or sister within her own body, then let him know that she once carried him in the same way. You will find that the older child will be more protective and helpful toward his mother when he learns that with every step she carries the precious burden of a baby.

Do not be afraid of your child's normal questions concerning birth. Welcome and answer them accurately. Do not be guilty of the silly "stork story" or any other substitute. The truth is beautiful and glorious. Every child has the right to hear it from his parents at whatever tender age it is sought. Indeed, you have a serious obligation in conscience to give this necessary instruction. If you seek His help, the Holy Spirit will guide you in this as in all other phases of religious teaching.

You may fear that the child will be jealous of the newcomer. If he is, it may be because of your own attitude. Of himself, the child is not likely to feel any pang of jealousy toward a brother or sister whose coming fulfills a delighted and prolonged anticipation.

Activity Source: From Stroller to School, Parent-Educator Series 2, Leaflets 13-24, Three to Six Years by Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, 1962