Preparing for Sibling
For your young child, the idea of a new sibling may feel like a very abstract concept, until that new baby is physically in your arms. Children are visual learners and will benefit from reading with you and discussing the changes ahead. Share ultrasounds, look at old baby pictures, feel the growing belly together.
A sister-to-be is so eager to step into her role that she’s starting early! She sticks close to her mama so she can sing songs to her sibling-to-be (loudly, of course) and explain all the great things waiting in the outside world (cupcakes! strawberries! swimming!).
With quaint line drawings, lovely patterns, and a variety of playful flaps showing the new baby blissfully tucked away in its mama’s belly, this interactive picture book is a joyful and celebratory ode to a growing family and the perfect gift for any big-sibling-to-be.
A new little one brings lots of changes-- some unexpected, some confusing, some exciting -- and all a wonderful adventure! An endearing story, You're a Big Sister celebrates all the best parts of a growing family. With adorable illustrations and heartwarming charm, You're a Big Sister overflows with anticipation and joy -- the perfect congratulations for a big sister!
From the author above, tailored for the expectant big brother.
The award-winning, classic stories about Peter and his neighborhood friends from the Caledcott Medal-winning author, Ezra Jack Keats. Peter has a new baby sister. First his father paints Peter’s old cradle pink, then his crib. Then his parents want to paint Peter’s chair! “Let’s run away, Willie,” he says to his dog. And they do. This is a gentle and reassuring story about sibling rivalry.
After Baby is Born
When friends and family visit with gifts for your newborn, find a way for a gift to be provided for the “new big brother/sister” as well.
Try and find one-on-one quality time you can spend with your first born, it will be important that they still feel connected to you.
Offer them purpose; helping pick out the baby’s outfit for the day, helping throw away dirty diapers, stand on the step stool to assist with diaper changes.
Invite your first-born to imitate your behavior with a doll. Change the doll’s diaper, feed the doll, burp the doll, rock the doll to sleep.
Create a routine around your newborns feeding time. When baby is feeding, your eldest can snuggle next to you with a book, or enjoy a snack, etc. Create a space during that frequent time so that they feel included.