On Thursday morning Lily and I drove to the hospital to participate in the Big Brother/Big Sister class. We hoped that this would further prepare Lily for Baby Brother’s arrival. It was a small group, only 3 moms and 4 kids and Lily was the youngest in the group. We were asked to bring a baby or stuffed animal from home, but they also had dolls, blankets, and diapers for us to use as well. Lily loved playing with the dolls and when asked to change the baby’s diaper she asked the nurse in charge for a wipe as well. That got a good laugh and the nurse said that she was ready to be a great helper at home.
The nurse showed the kids pictures of babies sleeping, crying, and smiling and we talked about some of the things that babies need to have…toys, clothes, diapers, cribs, car seats, bottles, etc. in order to be well taken care of. The nurse also told the kids that they could sing or read to their new babies, but that they must not pick up their baby without help from mom or dad.
The best part of the class was the hospital tour. We visited the rooms where moms will be staying and we visited the nursery. There, the kids were able to see two newborns receiving their baths and then laying in their little beds waiting to be taken back to their mommies. Lily loved this part. She told me that the babies were cute and small and when one started crying, she turned to his grandmother (who was also watching at the window) and said, “he needs a bottle”.
At the end of class each child was given a certificate of completion. Lily was very proud of her certificate and couldn’t wait to get home to show Daddy.
Waiting for class to start.
After diapering and wrapping baby in a blanket the kids were told to hold their baby gently.
Receiving her certificate from Nurse Vicki.
Showing me her certificate.
