Tips for Preparing Jealous 5 Year Old for New Sibling??

[attached2ethan]

My DS is almost 5 and we are expecting a new baby in a few weeks. He will be the middle child (this is baby #3) but for right now has been the "baby". He has ALWAYS been extremely jealous when I pay attention to other kids, especially when I hold babies- I did home daycare for almost a year when he was 3 and it was pure hell dealing with him and the babies, so I had to quit.

I am starting to get more concerned about how I can best prepare him for what's to come...was hoping you all had some suggestions so I can be sure I've tried everything..and additionally, ideas for how to transition in the early weeks would be helpful too. I don't feel like I did a very good job with DS1 when his brother was born, and I want to make it better for the kids this time so that they will have a smoother, more protective and loving relationship with their little sister. I don't expect perfection for sure, but I'd like to feel secure in how I'm handling things.

THanks!

Jessica, Mom of Three
DS1 (age 7)
DS2 (age 4.5)
Baby Girl due soon!

[omelette]

My son was 3.5 when our new baby was born.
A couple of things I did was have him help choose a new outfit for the baby to wear. I let him choose colours for the diapers; I took him shopping so he could pick a gift to give the baby. He helped go through all the old baby clothes, wash them and fold them. These were just a few small things but he really enjoyed helping to prepare for the arrival of his brother.
I have more to add but I need to go get the little one.