Pregnancy and the birth of a child can be some of the most stressful times in a person’s life. [1] X Trustworthy Source American Institute of Stress Non-profit organization providing resources on stress-management in education, research, clinical care, and the workplace. Go to source Your life is in transition right now, and transitions are not always easy.

Instead of saying, “You always talk about the baby! You don’t care about my life!” try saying, “Sometimes I feel like all you talk about is the baby coming. I’d like to talk about my life with you, too. I miss talking to you. ” Instead of saying, “You make me do everything around here!” try saying, “I know you’re tired and there’s a lot to do right now, but I am feeling overwhelmed by everything you are asking of me. Can we come up with a list of ways I can help you out and stick to those?”

Be aware of physical symptoms of stress, like an upset stomach or headache, and emotional symptoms, like feeling easily frustrated or overwhelmed. Make sure to talk to someone if you are feeling stressed out. [3] X Research source Take a break. Find some ways to take a break from your family life if your mom’s pregnancy is getting to be too much to deal with. Go to a friend’s house, see a movie, get some exercise, read a book—do some of your favorite things to take your mind off it for a while.

Your mom might enjoy doing quiet activities with you. Try reading to her, drawing pictures with her, or watching movies together. Try inviting her to do quiet activities, without pressure. Say “Would you like to hang out, or do you need to rest?”

If she hurts your feelings, walk away. When she feels calmer, come back to her, and say “It hurt my feelings when you ______. " This will help her know to try not to do it again.

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is called morning sickness. While morning sickness normally happens in the morning, every woman is different. She may also throw up in the evening or be nauseated all day long. [8] X Research source You can help your mom feel better by finding food and drinks that settle her stomach. Ginger ale, saltine crackers, pretzels, and peppermint tea are some suggestions, but ask your mom what works for her![9] X Research source

Feel the baby kick. Most women start to feel the baby kick around 16 weeks of pregnancy. [10] X Research source You might be able to feel the baby kicking from the outside when your mom is around 20 weeks pregnant. [11] X Research source Ask her to tell you when it is kicking and if it’s okay to touch her belly. Go to an ultrasound appointment. Your mom will likely have an ultrasound/sonogram when she is around 20 weeks pregnant. An ultrasound technician will take pictures of your sibling for you to see. If she wants to, she will likely be able to find out the sex of the baby at this appointment. You will learn if you are having a brother or a sister!

Mood swings and just general grumpiness have probably come back. [14] X Research source She is uncomfortable and not sleeping well. Do your best to remind yourself (and her) that this is temporary.

Help prepare the nursery. This could be anything from painting the room, putting together a piece of furniture, or washing and putting away baby clothes. Throw a baby shower. Help plan a party for her family and friends to celebrate this exciting time. Help her pack her hospital bag.

When your mom and the new baby come home from the hospital, she will spend a lot of time resting. She will be tired, because new babies are up a lot during the night. If you can, offer to watch the baby so she can take a nap.

Ask your mom to set aside some time for just the two of you each day. Be willing to be flexible, however. New babies are not good with schedules! Your family may have lots of visitors to welcome the new baby. The new baby may get a lot of attention, and a lot of presents. It is normal to feel jealous. Let your family know if you feel left out. Try asking for your old baby books or videos of you as a baby. This way, you can see how your parent(s) cared for you when you were a baby.

Newborns might not be able to play very much. Try asking your parents how you can play with your little sibling.