As a lifelong reader and lover of books, it is my favorite way to obtain and absorb information next to oral stories. Reading birth stories on social media or blogs, and books by Ina Garten and others, I believe can be an important part in preparing yourself for birth, whether you are expecting your first child or your fifth. Every pregnancy is different for every mama, and I have enjoyed being able to compare the similarities and differences of what this current journey with baby boy #2 has been like versus my pregnancy with Luca back in 2020. The biggest difference for me so far is the fact that with Luca I had an anterior placenta (where the placenta attaches to the front side of the uterus) and with this pregnancy it is posterior which means I have been feeling flutters and movement since 11 weeks. Now that I am 27 weeks the kicks, rolls, and punches are stronger, and I am so grateful to be experiencing a healthy pregnancy. I do experience Braxton Hicks a couple days a week, which at times can be uncomfortable, but thankfully it always passes with a little rest and water consumption.

Most recently I finished reading The Second Baby Book: how to cope with pregnancy number two and create a happy home for your firstborn and new arrival by Sarah Ockwell-Smith and was so grateful for the information she shared about navigating pregnancy and the arrival of the new sibling. I grew up an only child and had minimal experience around newborns and toddlers until the birth of my first child, and I am so excited to see how their relationship develops over the years. Ockwell-Smith’s book offers guidance and support to parents who are expecting or already have a second child. It addresses the unique challenges and concerns that arise when expanding your family, such as sibling rivalry, time management, and balancing the needs of multiple children. Sarah provides practical advice, tips, and real-life stories to help parents navigate the transition to a family with two or more children. The book emphasizes a gentle and attachment-focused approach to parenting and offers insights on nurturing healthy sibling relationships.

Sarah Ockwell-Smith has four children of her own, and worked as a doula and HypnoBirthing instructor before becoming an author. Her personal experiences along with her observations working in the birth world helped shaped her philosophy around children, sibling relationships, as well as birth and postpartum. She resides in England with her family.

Key Points

The Second Baby Book delves into various aspects of parenting when welcoming a second child into the family. Here are some key points from the book:

1. Sibling Relationships: The book explores strategies for fostering positive sibling relationships and minimizing jealousy or rivalry between children. It provides insights into helping older siblings adjust to the arrival of a new baby.
2. Emotional Well-Being: Ockwell-Smith addresses the emotional needs of both parents and children during this transition. She offers guidance on managing the emotional challenges and stress that can come with a growing family.
3. Sleep and Routine: The author discusses sleep patterns and routines, offering advice on how to adapt your schedule to accommodate the needs of multiple children. She provides tips on managing sleep for both the newborn and older child.
4. Parental Time and Self-Care: Ockwell-Smith acknowledges the importance of self-care for parents and shares practical advice on finding time for oneself while caring for two or more children.
5. Gentle Parenting: The book advocates for a gentle parenting approach, emphasizing empathy, understanding, and communication with children. It encourages parents to respond to their children’s needs with sensitivity and compassion.
6. Practical Tips: Throughout the book, you’ll find a wealth of practical tips and suggestions for managing day-to-day challenges, from feeding to discipline, in a way that promotes harmony within the family.

My Takeaway

I know that I will be leaning on those in my village for advice and support on navigating life with a toddler and a newborn, and the life stages that follow. Real life experiences can provide a point of view that you had not considered before, and the advice from those who have walked this path before is invaluable in today’s day and age. I invite you to share your experiences, advice, and opinions with me down below or on social media! Our Facebook page and Instagram can be found here.