What to do with toddler when giving birth?!

[Visitor7]

Is there a babysitting service in your area which you could contact now and suss out? Have a look in your phone book, the Internet or check with your council for one.
Good luck.

[Amity]

You could always hire a doula (or two) one to look after your child and one to help you...

[ickledoormouse]

Jodi - there's no doubts loads of babysitting services in the area. One called Creative Care4kidz is based really close. I might drop them an email.

Anyone used them?

Divvy, aren't doulas an expensive option?

[Lulu]

Have you thought about having her in with you?

[ickledoormouse]

Hi Lulu - I don't think that would be a great idea. She's only be 22 months when the baby comes and could be very frightened by the whole thing. If she was older and capable of understanding what was going on, then that would be different.

Also, it would mean that my husband would have to leave to care for her when she needed her nap etc and we both very much want him there!

[Michelle71]

Look at the option of having someone dedicated to looking after her during labour so you are able to get her to meet her sibling ASAP after the birth. The carer can remove her from the area if she is distressed or distract her in another part of the room.

DS was 18mo when DD was born. His godmother met us at the hospital and looked after him while waiting for DD to make an appearance but he was there to meet her very soon after birth. I hope we can do the same for this one.

[Twin Sister]

Is there anyone in your family that could come and stay with you around the time the baby is due and sty on until after the baby comes??