The teacher warned of serious consequences if the eldest child is ignored.

The appearance of a younger child in the family often becomes a serious emotional ordeal for the elder, which can manifest itself in a sudden change of behavior, moods and tantrums. On February 3, Anna Zamyslova, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, head of the kindergarten "School of Cooperation", told Izvestia how to recognize childhood jealousy and help a child cope with it.

According to the teacher, for a preschool—age child, the appearance of a brother or sister is primarily a loss of the exclusive attention of parents and the fear of being replaced. Children aged 2-6 are particularly vulnerable, as they cannot explain their feelings in words. Their protesting behavior is a signal that they want to make sure that they are still loved.

The expert warned that ignoring these feelings can lead to serious consequences.

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"20-25% of children experience developmental regression: enuresis, finger-sucking, and "childish" speech may return. A chronic feeling of abandonment is formed, which inevitably leads to conflict between children in the future," she said.

According to the expert, the key to harmony in the family is the "small exclusive rights" of the eldest child. According to her, 15-20 minutes of quality time is enough just for him, so that fears and jealousy subside. It can be the preservation of a favorite ritual, personal space, the right to sometimes be small or express negative feelings without punishment.

The teacher paid special attention to the parents' reaction to tantrums. Adults should remain calm, not shame or compare. It is necessary to express the child's feelings: "You are angry because it is hard for you right now," remind them of your love and together find other ways to express emotions.

"You can also prepare the eldest child to join the family in advance, about four to five months before giving birth, honestly telling about the upcoming changes. It is important to explain that the love of parents is not divided, but multiplied. The senior's help should only be voluntary, and you should sincerely thank him for any support," the expert concluded.

On January 31, Marina Mai, an expert on child development and founder of the Art Academy – Academy of Differences educational centers, said that parents who take excessive care prevent their children from developing and cause fear of mistakes. According to the expert, the modern cult of "childhood without tears" can lead to a child's lack of independence.

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