How to Prepare Older Sibling(s) for a New Baby
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Because welcoming a new baby is exciting—but also a big change for everyone.
Bringing home a new baby is a joyful time, but it can also stir up big feelings for older siblings. Whether your child is a toddler, preschooler, or school-aged, preparing them ahead of time helps them feel included, secure, and excited—not left out or replaced.
Here are some practical and gentle ways to help older siblings adjust to life with a new baby.
👶 Talk About the Baby Early (and Often)
Start including your child in conversations about the baby long before the due date. Use simple, age-appropriate language:
Toddlers: “There’s a baby in Mommy’s belly. Soon you’ll be a big brother/sister.”
Preschoolers: “The baby will need lots of help, and you’ll get to show them how things work.”
Older kids: Involve them in discussions about routines, where the baby will sleep, and what changes might happen.
The more familiar the idea, the less overwhelming it will feel when the baby actually arrives.
📚 Use Books and Stories
Children’s books are a great way to explain what it means to be a big brother or sister. Some popular picks include:
I Am a Big Brother / I Am a Big Sister by Caroline Jayne Church
The New Baby by Mercer Mayer
What Baby Needs by William Sears
Because I’m New by Brad Sneed
Reading together opens the door for questions and reassures your child that their feelings are normal.
🧸 Involve Them in Preparations
Give older siblings a role in getting ready for the baby:
Picking out a blanket or toy for the baby
Helping pack the hospital bag
Setting up the nursery or choosing baby clothes
Even small tasks give them a sense of pride and ownership in the new sibling relationship.
🕰️ Set Realistic Expectations
It’s helpful to explain what babies can and can’t do:
“The baby will cry, sleep, and eat a lot at first. They can’t play yet, but they’ll love watching you.”
This sets your older child up to understand the baby’s needs without feeling disappointed or confused.
💛 Protect One-on-One Time
One of the biggest fears for older siblings is losing your attention. Make an effort to spend special one-on-one moments with them, even if it’s just reading a book before bed or taking a short walk together. A few intentional minutes of undivided attention can go a long way.
🎁 Plan a “Big Sibling” Gift
Some families give the older sibling a small present “from the baby” when they first meet. It helps create a positive association with the new arrival and makes the older child feel seen and celebrated.
🧘 Be Patient with Big Feelings
Regression (like wanting a pacifier again or asking to be carried) is normal when a new baby comes home. Your child may also act out or test boundaries. Offer reassurance, consistency, and empathy—it’s all part of adjusting to a new family dynamic.
💬 Final Thoughts
Preparing older siblings for a new baby is about more than logistics—it’s about giving them reassurance, love, and a role in the transition. With a little preparation and plenty of patience, you can help your older child feel proud, important, and excited about their new sibling.
Because in the end, welcoming a new baby isn’t just about growing your family—it’s about helping every member thrive in their new role.