Sibling preparation classes.

Abstract

A review of the recent literature substantiates that sibling preparation classes help to ease the transition into being a sibling. Studies have shown that as a result of this preparation, children who become siblings exhibit fewer anxieties, are better able to express their feelings, and the mother feels better able to cope with the older child when the infant arrives. This article presents a detailed description of one hospital-based sibling preparation class: the setup, arrival of the families, tour of the maternity floor, snack and video presentation, and the separation into a children's class with specific objectives and a parents' class with objectives are presented. A description of other models of sibling preparation classes is included.