For many women, being pregnant is a time of great physical and emotional change. Those who have gone through it once before already knows what kind of toll being pregnant can have on the mind and body. When these women get pregnant for a second time, they must go through it again, only this time with a little one already in tow.

One of the first things a second or third mom-to-be should do is to prepare the children for the new arrival. This task can range in difficulty depending on the age of the children. Toddlers might have an especially difficult time because he or she is not accustomed to sharing mom and dad with anyone else. She might consider the new baby to be an interloper. The new baby will be occupying the time formerly reserved for Junior. The best thing to do is to get the child involved in the process. Call the new baby "our baby." Let them help with choosing furniture and colors for the nursery.

When you are pregnant, you can expect your other child to experience some regression in their development. For example, if the child has recently been potty trained, she might begin to have accidents. Youngsters who have recently given up the bottle may once again ask for them. Discuss your older child's own babyhood with her when parenting pregnancy. Let her remember the cute things she used to do as a baby. It helps for her to understand that life progresses from babyhood to where she is today.

While parenting pregnancy, take her on a hospital tour, or tour the birthing center. In fact, many hospitals today offer programs specially geared towards new big brothers and sisters. They will tour birthing rooms so they can see where you'll be.

For older children, you might notice them acting out a bit more. Instead of punishing them, talk with them and discuss her feelings. Not punishing them does not mean parenting without discipline, however. If they throw toys and the like, reinforce that it is not okay to do so, but also let them know that it is okay to be angry. Always reinforce the fact that you love them, no matter what, or who, happens.

Parenting pregnancy can be difficult on your child. The most important thing to remember is to reassure her that you will not love her any less just because a new baby is coming. Involve her as much as possible during parenting pregnancy. Help her to understand, and the process will go much smoother for everyone.