The moment your older child meets their new sibling, their life changes. It is a mixed combination of heartwarming love and a new fear that they are no longer the “only one.” Some children immediately embrace their role as big brother or sister, but others might need a little help adjusting to this big life change! 

Our staff consulted with various parents and selected what we feel are the best three practical ways to help your little one with the transition to their exciting new role.

1. Empower Big Siblings with Special Responsibilities

One of the biggest adjustments for a child who is used to being the baby of the family is understanding their new identity as a "big" sibling. You can help them embrace this role by giving them age-appropriate independence and responsibilities that make them feel important and valued.

-Create a snack station on a lower shelf with healthy, ready-to-eat options they can access themselves. Explain that these are special snacks just for big siblings!

-Designate them as the official "diaper helper" with their own small basket of supplies (wipes, clean diapers) to hand to you during changes.

-Let them choose a special song to be "their song" for helping their little sibling calm down.

-Give them the important job of picking out baby's outfit for the day.

Small responsibilities like these can help new big siblings feel included rather than replaced and give them a sense of pride as they learn to no longer be the baby of the family. 

2. Practice Through Pretend Play

Children can learn important skills and process big feelings through pretend play. Pretending to care for a baby is a wonderful way to prepare them for having a new baby around the house. 

-Show them how to hold their "baby" gently.

-Talk about why babies cry and what they might need.

-Let them practice feeding, changing, or rocking their “baby” and talk about why Mom or Dad will need to do these things with the new baby. 

-Talk about how babies sleep a lot and need quiet times, and let them help you think of ideas for quiet activities they can enjoy during baby nap times. 

Pretend play helps young children understand what to expect when the real baby arrives and gives them a chance to ask questions and practice. 

 

3. Celebrate Their New Status with a Special Gift

Consider giving your older child a special "big sibling" gift on the day the baby comes home. It’s a fun way to celebrate their new role, and it also gives them something to look forward to during the wait. As a bonus, it can help keep them entertained during those busy first days!

If they’re old enough to understand, you can have your child help pick out this special toy or activity a few weeks before your due date. The Urban Infant can personalize items for your oldest with their name or a sweet empowering phrase like "New Big Bro." Wrap it up and explain that this special gift will be waiting for them when they meet their new brother or sister. 

This idea works best if you choose a toy that:
- Is engaging enough to hold their attention.
- Can be played with independently.
- Isn't too noisy or messy (you'll thank yourself later!)
- Consider personalizing to them feel "grown up."

Obviously, there are also changes you as parents. And everyone’s transitions take time. It can be overwhelming to try to learn to be a parent to a newborn all over again - while also helping your other child through this new life event. Give yourselves lots of time and grace (and coffee) as your family grows.