Why It’s Actually Not So Bad:

Babies can be hard to live with, especially as a big sibling.  Your first job is to protect the baby from physical harm.  “You can be mad at Ben, but I can’t let you hurt him.”  Be fast and firm.  Then accept jealous, scared or frustrated feelings.  “You don’t like it when Ben gets into your blocks.  That makes you mad!”  Show your love for everyone in the family and help each child feel understood and secure.  

Keep it Appropriate:  Belting out “I hate the baby!” is fine around an infant, but things change when baby brother or sister becomes a toddler.  “It’s OK for you to feel that way, but Ben’s not a baby anymore.  You need to say that in your room.”  Give kids a place to speak freely or draw their angry feelings.