Welcoming a new baby into the family is such an exciting time. But it can also be a big change, not only for the parents but also for the older kids.
While you’re preparing for the arrival of a new baby, your older kid might be wondering, “Will mummy and daddy still have time for me?”, or “Will the baby play with my toys?”
Every child reacts differently. Some may be thrilled by the thought of becoming a big brother or sister, while others may feel unsure or even jealous. The good news is, with a little planning and reassurance, you can prepare them for this big change in their life.
Let’s explore some simple yet effective tips to prepare your older kids for a new sibling to make this transition easier for them and yourself.
The earlier the child hears the news—from you—the better. You don’t need to go into too much detail, but being honest about what’s coming will help prevent confusion and anxiety.
You can tell them something like, “Our family is getting a little bigger”. Younger children might not completely understand what that means but listening to you talk positively about it will help.
Make your child feel like they’re part of this process. It’ll help them feel important and valued. Let them help decorate the nursery, organise the baby’s wardrobe, pick out a teddy or a blanket for the baby, or even help you pack a hospital bag.
You could also ask for their opinion about choosing the baby’s name—they’ll love feeling that their input matters.
Uncertainty can be hard for kids. Tell them what will happen when you go to the hospital, who will look after them, and when you’ll be back.
For example, tell them “When it’s time for the baby to come, grandma will take care of you. Mummy will go to the hospital for a while, and then we’ll be home together soon”.
You can also let them help you prepare a “welcome home” card for the baby. This will make them feel included in this new chapter.
It’s natural to focus on how lovely it’s going to have a baby in the house. But it’s equally important to be honest about the challenges.
Explain to your older kid that babies cry a lot, they need feeding at night, and they can’t play right away.
Reassure them that you can still make time for them, even if things look busy for a while.
This honesty will help them expect what is coming and reduce the feelings of surprise, once the baby comes.
Children need reassurance that they’re still important and are loved. Try to set aside some time for a regular one-on-one time with each parent, before the baby arrives—whether it’s reading a bedtime story or going for a walk.
Once the baby is born, try to continue this special routine, even if it’s for 10–15 minutes.
These moments will help your child feel secure and remind them that your bond hasn’t changed.
Reading books to them about big brother or sister will help them be prepared for what’s coming.
Toddlers might also enjoy having a doll of their own to “care for”. They can feed it, wrap it in a blanket, or rock it to sleep. This playful approach will help them understand what looking after a baby looks like.
Your lap is your child’s safest place—no matter how old they are. For the first introduction, rather than holding the newborn in your lap, try to do it in a neutral spot.
You can place the newborn in a bassinet, pram, or a playmat on the floor, so your older kid doesn’t feel like their special place has been taken over by the new baby.
Once the baby arrives, involve your older child in taking care of the baby in small ways. They can fetch the wipes or nappies, hold the towel during bathtimes, or sing to the baby.
They can also show their favourite toys to the baby or read them their favourite book.
These simple things will make them feel helpful, proud, and part of the family team.
Becoming a big brother or sister is a big deal—and it deserves celebration! You can give your older child a small “big sibling” gift from the baby, like a T-shirt, book, or a badge.
Celebrating their new role will help develop positive feelings in them for this change.
Children thrive on routine—especially during the times of change. Try to stick to their usual mealtimes, bedtime, and other rituals as much as possible.
If you need to make some changes—like if the baby’s feeding time overlaps with your older kids’s sleep time, talk to your child in advance.
This will help give them some sense of normality, and make them feel safe.
When a new baby arrives, the older kids often show regression by trying to act younger. They might want to be carried around more, use a dummy again, or even have accidents if they’re toilet trained.
Don’t worry, all of this is normal. It’s their way of saying “I still need you too”. At this time they need your attention so respond with patience—not punishment. This phase shall pass too.
Preparing your older kids for a new sibling takes time, patience, and a lot of love. You can help them with this transition by involving them in the process, being open and honest with them, and reassuring that your love for them hasn’t changed.
In some time, those first moments of jealousy will fade—and be replaced by giggles, cuddles, a bond that will last a lifetime.
