Sibling Doula
As a sibling doula, my job is to help your other little ones while you are in labor. After the initial free consultation, I will schedule one or two appointments with your family. The first appointment will be with you and your partner to discuss your labor and delivery, and to develop a plan for your children. We will discuss where the birth will be, how involved you think the children might be in the process, and how you think I can support them best. We will discuss ways you can prepare them for the labor and delivery. If you opt for a second appointment, it will be to teach your children, in an age appropriate way, about what to expect, the sights, smells and sounds they might experience. We will discuss ways they will be able to help, and how they can let me know if they need a break. We will also come up with a plan for when you would like me to show up when you are in labor. I will be glad to consult with your birth doula to figure this out together.
I offer an optional final appointment with you and your children, after the baby is born to discuss the birth, and anything else they want to share. Many older siblings are proud to show off "their" baby, but some can feel left out because of all of the attention the baby is receiving. Meeting with their doula can help by giving them time where my attention is focused on them and their needs as new big brothers or sisters.