[ml2waiting]

Hi,

I'm sure some of you out there have experience with this...

I have a 17 month old daughter whom we adopted shortly after her birth, and now we are adopting for the second time. (Will have the final paperwork for home study done in a week or so...)

Of course, adoption can be unpredictable, not exactly sure when #2 will be here, but I expect things to go rather quickly.

Is there a way to get the message through to such a young child that a new baby is on the way (no strange growing belly to explain for 9 months...)? I know at 17 mon, DD understands a lot more than she can say...

All I could think of was to set up the new baby room with crib, changing table, etc. and let DD see it and talk about how the new baby will be needing it.... ??

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Rachel

[cetalley]

Originally Posted by ml2waiting

Hi,

I'm sure some of you out there have experience with this...

Of course, adoption can be unpredictable, not exactly sure when #2 will be here, but I expect things to go rather quickly.

Is there a way to get the message through to such a young child that a new baby is on the way (no strange growing belly to explain for 9 months...)? I know at 17 mon, DD understands a lot more than she can say...

All I could think of was to set up the new baby room with crib, changing table, etc. and let DD see it and talk about how the new baby will be needing it.... ??

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Rachel

Rachel, You sound like a very astute mommy to a 17 month old. The nursery idea is great, involving her with decorating the room. If she loves to read, maybe some books on adding a sibling for her to play and grow with. They are very wise at their age and will pick up on Mommies emotions as well. I would suggest a word of caution on exactly when the new arrival will be coming, as we all know the adoption isn't permanent until tpr is signed and baby is home. I am sure you are more than aware of this. I wish you the best of luck....you will do just fine.