How to Prepare Older Siblings for a New Baby

Welcoming a new baby into the family is an exciting time, but it can also be a big adjustment for older siblings. Some children may feel excited, while others may feel anxious or even jealous. Preparing your older child in advance can help them adjust smoothly and embrace their new role as a big brother or sister.

1. Talk About the Baby Early

• Start discussing the new baby as soon as possible so your child has time to process the changes.
• Use age-appropriate language to explain what’s happening.
• Read books about becoming a big sibling to help them understand what to expect.
• Show them ultrasound pictures or let them feel the baby kicking to build excitement.
• Be honest about what babies are like, explain that they cry, sleep a lot, and need extra care.

2. Involve Them in the Preparation

• Giving your child a role in getting ready for the baby can help them feel important.
• Let them help decorate the nursery or choose a special toy for the baby.
• Take them shopping for baby essentials and allow them to pick out an outfit for their sibling.
• Involve them in naming discussions (if appropriate).
• Let them practice with a doll, they can pretend to feed, dress, or rock it to sleep.

3. Explain How Life Will Change

• It’s important to prepare your child for the changes that will come when the baby arrives.
• Explain that Mommy and Daddy may be busier but still love them just as much.
• Set realistic expectations, tell them the baby won’t be able to play right away but will grow and interact later.
• Talk about who will take care of them while Mom is in the hospital.
• Reassure them that they will still get special one-on-one time with you.

4. Address Their Feelings & Reassure Them 

• It’s normal for kids to have mixed emotions about a new sibling.
• Encourage them to talk about their feelings and let them know it’s okay to feel happy, nervous, or even jealous. 
• Acknowledge their concerns, if they worry about not getting enough attention, reassure them with examples of how you will still spend time together.
• Use positive reinforcement, say things like, “You’re going to be such a great big brother/sister!”
• Watch for signs of emotional distress (clinginess, acting out, or withdrawal) and address them with patience.

5. Teach Them How to Interact with the Baby

• Help your child learn gentle and safe ways to interact with their new sibling.
• Show them how to touch the baby gently (like stroking their hands or feet).
• Explain that babies cry a lot and that it’s not because of them.
• Encourage them to help in small ways, like bringing diapers or singing a lullaby.
• Teach them how to recognize when the baby needs space, like when they are sleeping.

6. Plan for Sibling Bonding Time

• Make your older child feel included by encouraging sibling bonding.
• Have them “introduce” the baby when visitors come over, making them feel proud and involved.
• Let them help with simple tasks like picking out baby clothes or handing you wipes.
• Encourage them to talk or sing to the baby to build a connection.
• Create special sibling traditions like reading a bedtime story together.

7. Maintain Their Routine

• Keeping a sense of normalcy helps older siblings feel secure.
• Stick to their regular meal, bedtime, and play routines as much as possible.
• Ensure they still get one-on-one time with parents, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes of focused attention.
• Encourage playdates or special outings with family members so they don’t feel left out.

8. Celebrate Their New Role

• Help your older child feel proud and excited about being a big sibling.
• Give them a “Big Brother” or “Big Sister” gift when the baby arrives.
• Throw a “Big Sibling” celebration to make them feel special.
• Show appreciation for their help and praise their kindness toward the baby.
• Let them share their experiences with family and friends, making them feel important.

9. Be Patient with Regressions or Behavior Changes

• It’s common for older siblings to act out or regress when a new baby arrives.
• They may want to use a pacifier, talk like a baby, or seek extra attention, this is normal and temporary.
• Offer extra cuddles and reassurance without making them feel ashamed.
• Avoid punishing them for acting out, instead, redirect their energy with positive reinforcement.
• If they misbehave, acknowledge their feelings and offer alternative ways to express emotions, like drawing or talking.