Since you came home from the hospital, do you suddenly feel like you have two babies to care for?

Some moms are surprised to see their older child revert to baby-like behaviors like sleeping problems, toilet accidents, thumb-sucking and tantrums when a new sibling comes home. If this is happening in your house, don’t worry! It’s not only normal; it’s really common for your first child to act out like this. After all, he sees the baby get so much attention; he figures the same tricks should work for him, too.

The good news is that this behavior is only temporary, and usually stops as soon as your first settles in as the big brother or sister. To help with that transition, other moms have found a few tricks to be helpful.

First, you can make a big deal about how special it is to be the big brother or sister, and point out things that only “big” kids can do, like play with cool toys and eat fun foods. You can also get him involved with the baby, by asking for his help with feedings or changings. Even if it’s just handing you the diaper or bottle, a job of his own might help him feel important and special.

If you can set aside some time to spend alone together, a little one-on-one attention can go a long way. And if you make a play date for him with kids the same age, it could help remind him of how kids his age should act.

Finally, don’t forget to show him pictures of himself as a baby, to remind him that he once got lots of gifts and attention, too.