Giving birth prematurely can be a tramatic time for families. Its hard to prepare your older children for the birth of a baby, its even harder to prepare them for the premature or sick birth of your newborn. Older children can react in a number of ways. Tearful goodbyes, not eating properly, not playing and clinginess are all signs that your child is not coping with the changes in their life and routine. It's important to have a close relative or friend with your child to answer their questions and to talk to them in times of stress. Children 'soak' up the atmosphere around them and we often don't notice how truely stressed or upset they are until they act out. This is why it's important to acknowledge their feelings and to ensure that they get to meet their new baby brother or sister as soon as possible. Involve them in purchasing new clothing for the new addition to your life. Help select a new toy for their sibling and ensure you celebrate as a family the birth of your baby with your older children.