Bringing a new baby into the family is full of excitement, but if you’re a mom to an older child, you might be wondering: How will my firstborn adjust? It’s a big change, especially for a child who’s used to being the center of your world. But with a bit of creativity and warmth, you can make this transition smoother, helping your older child feel loved, included, and proud to become a big sibling.
Here’s a warm, relatable guide packed with heartfelt ideas and practical tips for preparing your older child for new baby sibling, ways that will make welcoming a new baby a special experience for everyone. Grab a cozy drink and settle in—you’ve got this!
How to Tell Your Child They’re Going to Be a Big Sibling:
Sharing the news with your child can be a magical moment. Rather than just telling them, think of a way that’ll make them feel involved and excited.
- Make it a little celebration: Try a “big sibling” reveal party just for them. Maybe a small cake that says, “Big Brother” or “Big Sister,” or a fun family dinner where they get a special surprise.
- Give them a small gift: A cute “big sibling” T-shirt or a stuffed animal “for practice” can make it feel real.
- Create a countdown calendar: If your child enjoys counting down to events, let them have their own “big sibling” calendar, with stickers to place each day until the baby arrives.
Get Ready for Baby Together: Fun Ways to Involve Your Child in Baby Prep:
Kids love to feel included, so bring your older child into the baby prep. Make it a shared project, showing them how much their help means.
- Set up a ‘big sibling nursery tour’: Let them help arrange little things in the nursery and give them a “tour” of their sibling’s room, showing them how they can help take care of their new little buddy.
- Personalize the space: If you’re decorating, let them make a small craft to hang in the nursery or choose a special photo of them to frame. It’s a small but meaningful touch.
- Pick out a gift for baby: Take them shopping (or browse online) to pick out a “welcome gift” from them to the baby. Let them choose something they think the baby will love.
- Buy both sibling and new baby name labels: A name label can make a thoughtful and practical gift for an older child, especially when a new baby is on the way, as it fosters a sense of individuality and gives the older child the feeling that their things remain their own, providing comfort and ownership in the midst of change.
Build Your Bond with the First Child: Create Special ‘Mommy & Me’ Moments:
Your firstborn might feel anxious about sharing you, so building special one-on-one time can reassure them that they’re still your priority.
- Start a new tradition: Plan a weekly activity that’s “just for the two of you.” It could be a walk to the park, a game night, or making Sunday pancakes together.
- Create a “memory jar”: Spend time before baby arrives writing or drawing your favorite memories together and add them to a jar. When they need a reminder of how special they are, pull out a note together.
- Leave little love notes: Put small notes in their lunch box or bedroom to remind them that they’ll always be your “first baby.”
Give Them Their ‘Superpower’ Role as the Baby’s First Best Friend:
Your child has unique talents, and it’s exciting for them to know they’ll be the baby’s first role model and buddy. Show them how their special qualities will shine in this new role.
- Create a ‘big sibling superpowers’ chart: Write down a few “powers” they have that will make them a great big sibling, like kindness, patience, or their funny personality.
- Encourage them to be the baby’s guide: Let them practice explaining things to a doll or stuffed animal, showing them how important their “teaching” will be.
- Give them a superhero cape: If they love dress-up, gift them a “big sibling cape” to wear when they’re helping you with baby tasks. It’s a fun way to remind them how important they are.
Make an Older Sibling Kit to Keep Them Engaged and Connected:
Putting together a “big sibling kit” can keep your child feeling special and help them stay occupied when you’re busy with the baby.
- Include “quiet-time” activities: Add books, coloring supplies, and little toys they can enjoy quietly when you’re feeding or rocking the baby.
- Add a few baby “helping tools”: Give them a little rattle, a burp cloth, or even a mini baby bottle to play with. They can “help” you in their own way.
- Add a “feelings journal”: If they’re a bit older, a journal or sketchbook can be a great way for them to share their thoughts and feel understood.
Create a Safe Space for All the Big Emotions:
Introducing a sibling can stir up big feelings, and giving your child a safe place to express them can make a world of difference.
- Encourage open conversations: Let them know it’s okay to feel a mix of happy, confused, and even a bit jealous. Assure them these feelings are normal and that you’re always there to listen.
- Role-play emotions: Try using stuffed animals to talk through any big feelings, which can make it easier for your child to share what they’re experiencing.
- Make a “feelings corner”: A comfy corner with pillows or blankets where they can go when they need a little alone time to feel calm can work wonders.
Cherish the New Family Moments, One Snuggle at a Time:
Finally, let yourself enjoy the beautiful chaos of siblinghood. There will be ups, downs, and so many sweet moments in between.
Take things one day at a time, embrace the changes, and know that you’re creating a world of love and memories for both your kiddos. Being a mom of two is a beautiful balancing act, and with a little creativity and warmth, you’ll create a bond that will last a lifetime. 
