Doula for my children?

[day-by-day]

I am pregnant with my fifth child and am planning to birth at a freestanding birth center. The midwives there encourage siblings to be present, so my husband and I are considering having my daughters (ages 7, 5, and 4) there for the birth. The problem is that we do not have anyone who would be particularly suited to serve as a support person for them during labor and delivery.

Would it be odd to hire a doula to act as a support person for my children rather than for myself? Is that outside the scope of a doula's practice? Or would it just depend on the individual doula?

Also, does anyone have any thoughts on having children present for birth? Do you thing 7, 5, and 4 are appropriate ages to witness birth? How soon would I have to hire somebody if I should choose to do that? (My due date is February 27th.)

Thanks in advance for your help.

[MidwifeErika]

Some doulas feel insulted being hired to help with kids during a birth and some love it, so it is up to each doula. (I offer services to doula for the children... birth is a big emotional thing for them too!). I would go ahead and try to line up something right now, it is never too early! And I think the ages of your kids are just fine to see a birth, it is good they will have an adult there just for them incase it is too intense, but I think it is totally appropriate for them to see the birth of a new brother or sister.

[homebirthing]

I have been a doula for two different families. I was hired both times to watch the kids and make sure that they were there, but comfortable with everything. It was great both times!