Top Ten Ideas for Families with Siblings
As doulas, we are also working to support our clients and their families through this challenging time. There of course is no easy or simple answer. (We haven't heard yet for example what single mamas are to do?) We have however come up with a few ideas to share with our clients and are eager to hear what mamas have to say here.
1. Communicate closely with all of your support team. Be as truthful (as age-appropriate) to your child about the changes explaining that their health is of your utmost priority.
2. Have a close family member or friend on call for you or hire a sibling support doula to make sure your child is well cared for. Someone the child adores is always a nice thing to look forward to.
3.Make Plan B exciting! Making a "surpise" birthday party for when baby gets home. Include big sibling presents, art projects, decorating and cake making as possible activities. Making the birth memorable now matter what form is likely a good goal for everyone involved.
4. Use technology: Skype and video chat is available on most laptops and mobile phones. See if a virtual meeting is possible. WiFi is possible in some areas of the hospital.
5. Video or photograph the birth if appropriate or possible for a post part sharing.
6. Consider your postpartum plan carefully. If you are healthy, how quickly can you return home? Discuss options with your provider. Family members, friends and postpartum doulas are all solid options for filling in when parents can be there.
7. For those that are significantly impacted or feel they have options, consider your place of birth. Even though it is likely that your sibling will be still under-age, there are some differences in the policy from hospital to hospital and there are home birth or freestanding birth center options that may not have this exclusion.
8. You have the right to express your thoughts and concerns regarding any issue about your patient rights either in person or letter format.
9. Recognize that this was not an easy decision for anyone involved and that creative dialogue may bring about continued positive solutions and safe measures with our community as a whole.
10. Love your family and recognize that any challenge can be turned into a positive memory with a little creativity.
Again, we recognize mamas are the most creative people on the planet so we're looking forward to hearing your responses!
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