"Do you want to watch your sister for a couple of minutes while I wash dishes?” If you give an older sibling responsibility when you’re nearby to supervise, it will go a long way to build confidence. “As long as the older sibling has never been rough with the baby, say, ‘I need someone careful like you to watch her and make sure she's OK,’" Mandel says. “Place the baby on a blanket on the floor or in a bouncy chair, and let the sibling entertain her with a toy or pat her back. It will help the sibling accept and feel nurturing towards the new baby, and boost self-esteem. She’ll feel competent and trusted by mom.”
