My signature my love...

I am a big advocate of siblings being present for the birth of their brother/sister...

I have five live children - and each has been present for the birth of their younger sibling - except for my DD4 - as DD1 was a high tech emergency c/section at 28 weeks...

It is only in the west and only in this "day and age" that birth happens as a medical event behind closed doors... My children were not traumatised or ill effected by being involved at their siblings births. Birth is a family event - it is HUGE! I believe that one of the reasons that birth has such a fear mentality in our society is because it happens behind closed doors. Birthing babies is a natural and normal family event. it is sacred and beautiul.

Siblings being involved in birth helps to break down the fear and the mystery. My children know exactly where babies come from - and the hard work it takes to get them here...

Educating your children - making noises to give examples of the noises you may make in labour, examples, books and videos are all great things to do with your other children.

But, just take it in your stride. Birth is normal. Treat it as such and don't allow any of the hog wash that some people talk about to infiltrate.

Sometimes things don't go to plan - have a plan B - but focus on plan A and trust in the process and the natural process that most "usually" happens.

I have the most beautiful photos of my children during the labours of their younger siblings. One of my most treasured is breast feeding my DD while contracting with her sister. My son peering up my bottom to see if he can see "Eva" arriving...

My DD (eldest) putting a straw up my nose in attempt to give me water...

Mostly the absolute awe and sacred love pouring from my oldest babies as they investigate the newborn bodies of their younger siblings.

There is no greater gift to give your child than to show them how birthing can be a very natural and instinctual process.

Happy to email you photos if you would like. Good luck - stick to your guns - go with your gut - and happy birthing...