Whether or not to include your other children in the birth of the new baby is a very personal decision, and I support you in whatever choice you make.

If you do plan for your children to be present at the birth, I feel it is important to designate a trusted friend or family member to be with them.  That person can entertain them during the sometimes long waiting periods of early labor, and take them for walks or to play if they are bored or restless, or feeling the experience is too intense.

My lending library includes a number of books you can share with your children to prepare them for the birth, and for a new baby in the household.

Sibling Support Service

If you plan to have your other children present at the birth, in your home, we offer a Sibling Support Service. This includes an introductory meeting in which I or one of my associates will meet with the whole family.  This gives us the opportunity to see if we are all comfortable working together. If chosen as your child's support person, I will come when you call me for the birth. During the labor, your child and I may read, make a birthday cake for the baby, do some artwork, take walks, etc.. I can also just be there while your child rests if the labor is at night. During the birth, I will answer any questions your child has, to help them to understand what is happening. I will respect both the parents' and child's wishes as to how much the child will participate. 

This is not a babysitting service, but rather professional support and age-appropriate information for your children.  Of course, in the event of an emergency transfer to hospital, I will remain with your children until a family member is available.

Sibling Support Service is offered as a separate package, as the Birth Doula cannot support siblings present at a birth.  However, if you retain me as your Birth Doula, I have associates who will provide the Sibling Support. 

If you're planning a hospital birth, we can also provide Sibling Preparation visits to help your other children prepare for the experience and the new baby.