Yes, that was the same approach I had with my son, Leslie, attending Rosie's birth. It was wonderful. Leslie was actually the first person on the planet to see anything of his little sister. He was the one to tell us all, the head was crowning. He was so excited, I can hear his voice now. It has given them a bond I've never seen in any other pair of siblings. They protect each other to the nth degree, whether that means by getting someone else to back off, or by one giving the other a bit of a talking to. And it all works both ways.
Love and hugs,
Aviva
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, November 25, 2002 11:26 AM
Subject: [ozmidwifery] Re: [Children Present at Births)

Hi sarah,

My daughter Nicole was 41/2 years old at the birth of her sister.
I've found children are very accepting of birth when you treat it as a
'special family' event, not something to be frightened of.
I talked to her about the noises I would make, that I would be in the bath
(once I'm in labour and in the water you cannot get me out !), showed her a
waterbirth video and some books. I let her lead the way in showing her
interest when she wanted to watch the videos and talk about the birth.
What a way for a mother to share such a precious time with her daughter,
their freindship was evident right from birth and still continues 6 months
on !
Go with your heart as only you know best whether your children would be
comfortable being present at your next birth. Ask them.
Warm regards Robyn

Reply via email to