Yes and Yes!!!!

I had my 2 .5 year old daughter at our sons birth, we were in a birthing centre and she loved it, I plan on having both of them at the next birth shortly. Britney will be 6 and Joshuah 3.5 years. I made sure I had a few toys and a new colouring book and plenty of change for the snack/drink machine. I really enjoyed having her there and found it a welcoming distraction. Although she didn't watch the actual birth was too busy colouring in at the time, my husband been asking if she wants to watch this time.... so it could be very interesting. It was a fantastic feeling to be able to share the birth of our son with our daughter.
Hope this helps,
Snoopea