FAMILY LIVING Through a Child's Eyes

Susan Bartell, PsyD Original Article Published in Pathways Winter 2009 Issue, http://www.pathwaystofamilywellness.org

It’s a very important moment in the life of your family: You’re adding a new member! In growing families, a new son or daughter is often also a new brother or sister. Many families face the question: Should my child be present to greet her new sibling on arrival?

Different people will have very different reactions to this idea. Some will think it’s terrific—a really wonderful shared experience for parents and child, not to mention a powerful bonding moment for the child and her new sibling. Other people will be shocked that a parent would even consider exposing a child to what they perceive as a traumatic experience. One mom told me that she didn’t think she would be able to concentrate and that she might even be embarrassed for her daughter to see her in labor and giving birth. Still others will be on the fence, unsure of which is the right decision for their family. It’s important to examine the pros and cons of this issue in order to decide which choice is right for you. And if you do decide to have your child present at the birth of your next baby, we have some suggestions about how to make the experience as positive as possible...

About the Author:

Dr. Susan Bartell is America’s #1 Family Psychologist. She has been helping parents and kids lead happier and healthier lives for nearly twenty years. Dr. Susan’s latest book is Dr. Susan’s Fit and Fun Family Action Plan. You can learn more about her at www.DrSusanBartell.com.