How to Prep Your Kids and Pets for Baby #2 (Without Losing It)

From sibling meltdowns to fur-baby freakouts, here's how I survived the chaos—and how you can too.

Welcome to the Chaos: Baby #2 Is a Whole New Ball Game

When I first found out I was pregnant again, my mind went straight to the sweet stuff—tiny baby toes, cuddles, and those squishy newborn snorts. But then, reality slapped me across the face like a toddler tantrum. Wait. What about my first kid? And what about my dog, who legit thinks she's the queen of the house? Suddenly, I wasn't just prepping myself for birth—I had to prep my entire little circus for a new ringmaster.

I'll be honest. The idea of introducing a new baby into an already semi-functioning household felt overwhelming. I started spiraling: Would my toddler feel abandoned? Would my dog lose her mind over the crying? Would I lose my mind in the process? Spoiler alert: I definitely had a parking lot cry (or three), but we made it through. And now? I'm here to spill all the messy, hilarious, actually-helpful tea on how to get your kiddos and fur-babies ready for baby #2—without losing your sanity (or at least, not all of it).

Step 1: Prepping Your Kid (a.k.a. Your Tiny Roommate With Big Feelings)

Start Slow—This Ain't a Bombshell Moment

No need to drop the baby news like you're announcing the next Marvel movie. 🦸‍♀️ Ease them into it. Little ones don't need a full PowerPoint presentation on pregnancy—they need repetition and comfort. Start by talking about babies in general. Show them your belly and let them poke it (gently, hopefully). Say things like, "The baby's growing in here," and watch their face. Curiosity? Great. Total disinterest? Also normal.

Books Are Your BFF

Trust me, reading together about becoming a big brother or sister can work WONDERS. Some of my faves:

• "I Am a Big Brother" by Caroline Jayne Church
• "Hello in There!" by Jo Witek
• "Waiting for Baby" by Rachel Fuller

These books help them visualize what's happening without it feeling scary or confusing. Plus, it gives you an excuse to snuggle while sneakily planting those big sibling seeds.

Give Them a Role (They'll LOVE It)

Kids want to feel important. Even if they're two and can barely dress themselves, they want IN on the action. Let them help pick out onesies, choose a toy for the baby, or "help" set up the nursery. Warning: everything will take three times longer—but it's worth it for the "I helped!" pride they'll feel.

Step 2: Handling All the Big Emotions (Because They're Coming)

No matter how excited your kid seems, there will be moments of jealousy, confusion, or straight-up rage. Toddlers aren't exactly known for their emotional regulation, ya know?

Validate, Validate, Validate

When they say, "I don't want a baby," don't freak out. Say, "It's okay to feel that way. I'll always love you so much." Your older kid needs to know they're still your #1—even when you're covered in spit-up and can't remember the last time you slept.

One-on-One Time = Gold

Schedule special "big kid" time with them—just 10-15 minutes a day makes a difference. Even if it's just building blocks or dancing like weirdos in the kitchen, it's their time with you. And yes, the baby might cry through it. It's still worth it.

Step 3: Prepping Your Pet (Because They're Family Too)

Let's be real—your dog or cat was probably your first baby. And now, they're about to get bumped down the pecking order, and they know it. 🐾

Desensitize Early

Set up baby gear before baby comes home. Let them sniff the crib, hear the swing motor, and yes, even check out those weird diapers. Play baby crying sounds at low volume during dinner or walks, and reward calm behavior. I'm not saying they'll love it—but they won't freak out as hard when it's the real deal.

Brush Up on Training (You'll Thank Me)

Now's the time to reinforce basic commands like "stay," "leave it," and "go to bed." If your dog jumps a lot? Work on that NOW. You do not want a doggo launching at you while you're holding a newborn.

Create a Pet Retreat

Give them a cozy, quiet spot that's theirs. This way, when the baby screams at 2 AM, your pet has a place to escape the madness (and honestly, you might want to crawl in there too sometimes).

Step 4: Managing the Mayhem (Because It WILL Get Wild)

When the baby finally arrives, it's game ON. There will be days when your toddler is throwing Legos, the baby's screaming for milk, and your dog is barking at a shadow. Deep breaths, mama. You've got this.

Lexi's Chaos Survival Kit:

• A snack stash everywhere—diaper bag, couch cushions, car glove box.
• Noise-canceling headphones. No, seriously. Even if just for 5 minutes.
• Lower those expectations. Your house won't be clean. Your hair won't be washed. Who cares?
• Call in reinforcements. This is not the time to "be strong." Grandma, friends, neighbors—let them help.
• Laugh at the madness. Cry in the shower. Then laugh about it later with your mom group.

You're Not Alone in This Circus

I wasn't ready for the juggling act of kids, pets, and newborn life—but I survived. And so will you. There's something magical about watching your older kid hold their sibling for the first time, or seeing your dog quietly curl up next to the crib. The chaos? It's real. But the love? It's even bigger.

We got this. 💪💖🐾 Now go give your toddler a hug, toss a treat to your pup, and take a moment for you—you've earned it.