Continued from Surviving the Wait--Part Two...

If you already have children at home, then your waiting will be different. In some ways, it will not be as difficult as it is for those without children. You will be busy with the children already home. You will feel just as worried for your new child and be just as desperate to get them home, but you will also have children to cuddle and love and keep you on your toes. Part of your wait will include getting your children at home prepared to welcome a new sibling. That is why I have created two separate lists for making the wait bearable. Here is a list of things specific for those who already have children in the home:

1. Prepare your child for their new sibling’s arrival.
2. Take your children to the zoo, or any other fun places. Spend as much time with your children as you can. Enjoy this time with them. When the new one arrives, you will have less time for your other children—at least in the beginning.
3. Go on any vacations you may have promised or simply wanted to go on. It will be awhile before you feel up to traveling when your new child comes home. It is also recommended that you not take your new children around too much in the beginning. They need a chance to feel secure in their new home, and get used to a new schedule.
4. Do any bedroom rearranging and redecorating that needs to be done. Let your children help you, if possible.
5. Read books to your children about welcoming a new sibling.
6. Arrange childcare for your children if you will travel to bring your new child home.
7. Visit with your pediatrician about your new child-to-be, and make a check-up appointment for when they come home.
8. Get your children involved in a new sport or activity that will keep everyone busy. This will help the time pass, and will keep the child’s (and parents’) minds on something besides the wait.
9. Clean and de-junk your home. Get the kids involved.
10. If you are adopting an older child, talk with your local school and get them registered. If you plan to homeschool, get all of the necessary books and equipment they will need ready.
11. Teach your children about their new sibling’s birth country.
12. Teach your children how to say a few key phrases in their new sibling’s native language.
13. Have your children help you learn how to cook and prepare traditional dishes from their new sibling’s birth country.
14. If your child goes to school, ask for permission to have your child do a report or show & tell about their new sibling’s country and culture.
15. If you are going to give your new child another name, let your children help you pick it out.
16. Get your children at home caught up on any necessary doctor and dentist visits. That way you can focus on your new child’s medical needs with more ease.

What are some of the ways you have survived the wait with children already at home?