Preparing Your Child for Their New Baby Sibling

Welcoming a new baby into the family is an exciting and life-changing event, but for older siblings, it can also bring big emotions and adjustments. Whether your child is a toddler, preschooler, or in long day care, it’s natural for them to feel a mix of excitement, curiosity, and uncertainty about the changes ahead.

At Little Scribblers, we understand the importance of helping children navigate transitions in a supportive and positive way. Preparing your child for their new baby sibling can make the experience smoother and help them feel included and reassured throughout the journey.

When should I start preparing my child for their new sibling?

Every child reacts differently to the news of a baby sibling, so the earlier you begin preparing them, the better. Generally, it’s a good idea to start talking about the baby in the second trimester so your child has plenty of time to adjust.

For toddlers and preschoolers, it’s important to:

• Use simple language to explain that a baby is growing inside Mummy’s tummy.
• Read books about becoming a big sibling to introduce the concept in a fun way.
• Involve them in preparations so they feel excited about the baby’s arrival.

How to Prepare Your Child for a New Baby Sibling

1. Talk About the Baby in a Positive Way

• Explain what will happen when the baby arrives, but keep it simple and age-appropriate.
• Use phrases like “The baby will need lots of cuddles and sleep, but they will love you so much!”
• Be honest about changes (e.g., Mummy might be tired, and the baby will cry).

2. Involve Your Child in Baby Preparations

• Let them help choose baby clothes, books, or toys.
• If setting up a nursery, ask for their “big sibling” input on colours or decorations.
• Role-play with dolls or stuffed animals to help them understand how babies are cared for.

3. Maintain Routines and Special Time Together

• Keep childcare, daycare, or preschool routines the same to provide consistency.
• Set aside one-on-one time each day so they feel valued and loved.
• Reassure them that they are still just as important as the new baby.

4. Prepare for the Hospital Stay

• Explain who will take care of them while Mummy is in hospital.
• Let them visit the hospital before the birth (if allowed) to make it feel familiar.
• Have a small gift “from the baby” to make the first meeting extra special.

5. Teach Gentle and Safe Interactions

• Show them how to gently touch or hold the baby with supervision.
• Explain that babies cry because they can’t talk yet and teach them ways to help (e.g., bringing a toy or singing a song).
• Praise them for kind and gentle behaviour around the baby.

Managing Sibling Jealousy and Big Emotions

It’s completely normal for older siblings to feel a mix of emotions—excitement, curiosity, jealousy, or frustration. Here’s how to help:

• Acknowledge Their Feelings – Let them express concerns and reassure them with extra cuddles and encouragement.
• Give Them a “Big Sibling” Role – Small tasks like passing a nappy or singing to the baby can help them feel included.
• Avoid Major Life Changes – If possible, don’t introduce big changes (like toilet training or moving to a big bed) right before the baby arrives.

At Little Scribblers, our educators are trained to support children through transitions, including welcoming a new sibling. If your child is attending childcare or preschool, talk to their educators about any concerns, so they can provide extra reassurance and emotional support.

How to Make the First Meeting Special

The moment your child meets their new sibling is important! Here are some tips to make it a positive experience:

🎁 Give them a special “big sibling” gift from the baby.

📸 Let them take part in photos and feel included

🧸 Encourage gentle interaction – Let them hold the baby (with support) or help with a simple task.

💬 Use positive language – “Your baby sister loves you so much already!”

Final Thoughts: Helping Your Child Feel Secure

Welcoming a new baby is a huge transition, but with preparation, patience, and reassurance, your child will adjust and grow into their new role as a big sibling.

At Little Scribblers, we provide a supportive childcare and preschool environment that encourages children to express their emotions, develop social skills, and embrace life changes with confidence.

👶 Looking for a nurturing childcare centre that supports family transitions?

Enquire today to learn how our early learning programs help children navigate change while fostering confidence and resilience.