Sibling Classes

AussieDoula · 09-28-2006, 03:16 AM

When I relocate, I will be hosting readiness classes to prepare older siblings for the arrival of a new baby.

Does anyone else offer this type of class?
How long does it generally run?
What types of activities do you do and what materials do you share with the children?
Are parents invited or do you find you can reach the children and open discussion when the parents are seated in the back/not actively participating in the class?

I have an overflowing of ideas, but have some time before I begin to implement this into my Doula repertoire so I wanted some feedback on what works and what doesn't.

I was planning on accumulating some great books and videos (any recommendations?), using a doll to demonstrate normal infant appearances and behavioral characteristics, having them touch and gently hold a baby (possibly a real infant), how mama may feel after the baby arrives, looking at photographs of themselves as newborns, and maybe even a puppet show/dress-up to simulate labour and the types of sounds/visuals/people they might see during a normal birth.

I will also be visiting the schools in my area to talk with children in preschool, kindergarten, and the first grade to ask them about babies and where they think they come from (I'm going to love this part - sooo fun!).

Any input or tips from those of you who offer this type of education would be greatly welcomed and much appreciated!

supportingmom · 09-29-2006, 04:24 PM

welcome with love is a great homebirth book for kids.
roll playing with a life size baby doll.

AussieDoula · 09-29-2006, 05:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by supportingmom

welcome with love is a great homebirth book for kids.
roll playing with a life size baby doll.

Great ideas! Thank you for responding LOL!

I had started to think I would have to chase some people around with a stick to get some input, hahahaha!

I'd love some more suggestions for books, videos, and activities.

supportingmom · 09-29-2006, 07:32 PM

I just spent forever getting you links to some good books and got logged off before I finished and lost my post. WAAAA!

AussieDoula · 09-29-2006, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by supportingmom

shit. I just spent forever getting you links to some good books and got logged off before I finished and lost my post. WAAAA!

I once found a great list of children's books that show illustrations of breastfeeding infants and toddlers, but I lost my bookmark for it and can't find it now... Not that they were about birth or anything, but I know how you feel, LOL!

supportingmom · 09-29-2006, 07:37 PM

ok. I will try again without the links. all books can be found on amazon.com

two I really like...
Will There Be a Lap for Me?
Welcome with love

some others that I have seen that look good....
Baby on the Way (Sears Children Library)
What Baby Needs (Sears Children Library)
What to Expect When the New Baby Comes Home (What to Expect Kids)

AussieDoula · 09-29-2006, 07:40 PM

You know, I didn't even think to check out the Sears childrens books!

Thanks for the list mama!

MothertheMother · 09-29-2006, 10:59 PM

I think I might get a couple of these to add to my lending library (you know, when I have more money than I need lol) Thanks for the titles

Matrescence · 09-30-2006, 03:58 PM

Good topic, I've been toying with this idea too. I saw a neat-looking set int he Injoy catalogue, not sure if it's a good one or not, more for younger children. It came with a video, teacher set and activity book I think. I'd thought about offering this right along with cb classes, kids in 1 room parents int he other, but I just don't know if a sibling class can be stretched to fill 6 weeks.

AussieDoula · 09-30-2006, 04:45 PM

I've been standing in dc's room surveying the chaos to get some ideas, and I think a felt board might work well.
Having the kids come up and put little pictures on there to get them involved while I explain things...
Not sure yet exactly how I'll utilise one, lol! I just want one there darnit!

AussieDoula · 09-30-2006, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MamaBellies

I just don't know if a sibling class can be stretched to fill 6 weeks.

I do think it would be beneficial in some ways for the kids to "network" with each other while their parents do. It will increase the chances that families will form friendships and the children will feel less left out by bonding with one another.
Maybe having some activities on a few days where they're independently drawing pictures of the upcoming birth/baby's arrival for their parents, reading books in small groups, or helping them to write little "books" to their new siblings, etc.
I'm sure you'll be able to find enough material and ideas related to birth and being an older sibling to fill a couple hours a week for the six weeks.

MothertheMother · 09-30-2006, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MamaBellies

Good topic, I've been toying with this idea too. I saw a neat-looking set int he Injoy catalogue, not sure if it's a good one or not, more for younger children. It came with a video, teacher set and activity book I think. I'd thought about offering this right along with cb classes, kids in 1 room parents int he other, but I just don't know if a sibling class can be stretched to fill 6 weeks.

How about offering a refresher course along with the sibling class. It only makes sense that they go hand in hand. Plus the couples don't have to worry about baby sitting while they are in classes!

MothertheMother · 09-30-2006, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AussieDoula

I've been standing in dc's room surveying the chaos to get some ideas, and I think a felt board might work well.
Having the kids come up and put little pictures on there to get them involved while I explain things...
Not sure yet exactly how I'll utilise one, lol! I just want one there darnit!

How about cutting out/making things that the children can help with. Getting diapers, wipes, burp cloths, water bottle for mommy. Pass them out to the kids and tell them to come up to the board when you are talking about the thing they have. (works at story time in the library lol)

1stimestar · 09-30-2006, 08:52 PM

Have them come up with a list of things to do to entertain themselves while mommy and daddy are busy, a list of snacks they would like to have, a movie they have that they might like to watch too. Teach them that it is not ok to make fun of mommy's noises. They do that sometimes when they are nervous.