I've always heard the hardest transition was from one to two children. From all the parents I've spoken to over the years, this seems to be the consensus. So helping your child adjust to the idea of a new baby brother or sister can help smooth the transition. With a little preparation, you can help your older children feel included, loved, and excited about the new addition to the family. Here are some helpful tips for preparing older siblings for the arrival of a new baby.

1. Talk About the Baby Early On

Start Conversations Early:

• Depending on your child’s age, start talking about the baby as soon as you feel comfortable. Use age-appropriate language to explain that a new sibling is on the way. This allows your child to gradually adjust to the idea.

Answer Their Questions:

• Be ready to answer questions your child may have about the baby, such as how it will impact their routine or what the baby will be like. Keep the conversations positive and encourage curiosity.

2. Involve Them in the Pregnancy

Let Them Feel Included:

• Let your child be part of the pregnancy experience. Show them ultrasound pictures, talk about the baby’s movements, and allow them to feel the baby kicking if they’re interested.

Make Preparations Together:

• Involve your older child in preparing for the baby’s arrival. This could include helping set up the nursery, picking out clothes or toys, or packing a hospital bag.

3. Read Books About Becoming a Sibling

Find Books That Explain Sibling Relationships:

• There are many wonderful children’s books that explain what it’s like to become a big brother or sister. Reading these books together can help your child understand what to expect and feel more prepared.

Encourage Discussions After Reading:

• After reading, ask your child how they feel about becoming an older sibling. This can help them express any concerns or excitement they might have.

4. Acknowledge Their Feelings

Validate Their Emotions:

• It’s normal for older siblings to feel a mix of emotions, including excitement, jealousy, or confusion. Let your child know that it’s okay to feel however they’re feeling and that you’re there to support them.

Create a Safe Space for Expression:

• Encourage your child to talk about their feelings without judgment. Whether they’re excited or anxious, acknowledging their emotions can make them feel heard and understood.

5. Create Special "Big Sibling" Roles

Give Them Important Tasks:

• Assign your older child special responsibilities related to the baby, like picking out outfits or helping with diaper changes (age-appropriate tasks, of course). This can make them feel important and involved in caring for the baby.

Celebrate Their New Role:

• Make becoming a big brother or sister a big deal! Consider throwing a "Big Sibling" party or giving them a special "big sibling" gift to commemorate the occasion.

6. Maintain Routine and Special Time

Keep Their Routine Consistent:

• A consistent routine can help older siblings feel secure during the changes that come with a new baby. Try to stick to their normal routines, including mealtime, bedtime, and playtime, as much as possible.

Plan One-on-One Time:

• As the new baby will require a lot of your attention, make time for one-on-one activities with your older child. Whether it's reading a book, playing a game, or taking a short walk, this special time will reassure them that they’re still important to you.

7. Prepare for the Hospital Stay

Explain What to Expect:

• Prepare your older child for the time when you’ll be in the hospital. Let them know who will be caring for them while you’re away and when they’ll be able to meet the new baby. 

Explain What Will Happen When Baby Comes Home:

• Letting your older child know what to expect when the new baby comes home will allow them to transition more. Highlight where the baby will sleep (in their nursery, on you, etc) and what part of the new routine might look like. 

Helping your little one become your big kid is going to take time and patience. No matter what age, your child will have big feelings around becoming an older sibling. 

For those who have helped their babies become older siblings, let us know what we missed to share that helped you and your family.