Milagros

Now that we are a family of four, we are often are asked about how we prepared Mila for the arrival of her brother Gael. Especially since we had planned a home birth and wanted her to have the option to be present.

One thing we did was bring Mila to the prenatal appointments, she could hear her brother’s heartbeat and feel comfortable with our mid-wives. We did one ultrasound as well and Mila was able to be there for that viewing. In addition to including her in all parts of the preparation process, we read books - A LOT of books! One of our very favorites was “My Brother Jimi Jazz” by Australian author and illustrator Chrissy Butler.

It is beautifully illustrated and provides a child’s view of the birth of her brother in a fun, vibrant, and realistic manner - including the father running around filling the birthing tub and getting a little flustered (yes, that was DEFINITELY our reality with both births).

Mila stayed right at the side of the birthing tub when Gael was born, nothing that occurred during the birth was a surprise for her - including her Mama’s vocalizing. She still often requests that we read this lovely book to her at bedtime.

The book was a gift to us but we recently contacted Ms. Butler down under and now have a limited selection of “My Brother Jimi Jazz” available at Milagros. It is a great book for introducing a future sibling to the birth process in any situation but is especially wonderful if you are planning a home birth. Peace.