Preparing Older Siblings for a New Baby

Bringing a new baby into the family is exciting, but it can also be a big adjustment—especially for older siblings. They may feel a mix of emotions, from excitement and curiosity to jealousy and anxiety. Helping them prepare for this transition can make a world of difference in how they adapt to the new family dynamic.

Here are some friendly, practical tips to help your older child or children get ready to welcome their new sibling with open arms.

1. Talk About the Baby Early On

Once you’re ready to share the news, involve your older child by explaining that a new baby is on the way. Use age-appropriate language, and keep the conversation light and positive. For toddlers, keep it simple: “You’re going to be a big brother or sister!” For older children, go a bit deeper, discussing what a new sibling will mean and how it might change things.

Reassure them that your love for them won’t change, even with a new baby around. The goal is to help them feel included and understand that the arrival of a sibling is a family event that involves everyone.

2. Encourage Questions and Listen to Concerns

Your older child may have questions or concerns about what the new baby means for them. Will they have to share their room? Are you going to be too busy for them? Encourage them to ask questions and answer honestly and positively. This will help address any worries they might have and give them a chance to share their feelings.

Be patient and listen. Kids may ask the same questions over time as they process the idea of a new sibling. Assuring them that their feelings are valid and important will go a long way in making them feel secure.

3. Read Books Together About New Siblings

Books are a wonderful way to help children understand big life changes. Look for children’s books that explore the arrival of a new sibling, such as I Am a Big Brother or I Am a Big Sister by Caroline Jayne Church or The New Baby by Mercer Mayer. Stories like these can help your child relate to the experience, see that their feelings are normal, and even start to feel excited.

Reading together not only prepares them but also opens up a natural space to discuss the new baby and how life might change in a way they can understand.

4. Get Them Involved in the Preparation

Involving your older child in preparing for the baby can help them feel connected and important. Let them help pick out baby clothes, decorate the nursery, or choose a special toy for the baby. Even small tasks, like helping to fold baby clothes, can make them feel like they’re an essential part of the big change.

If they’re interested, let them feel the baby kicking or talk about what the baby might be like when they’re born. Activities like these can make them feel more invested in their new sibling.

5. Discuss the Changes to Expect

It’s important to prepare older siblings for the reality of having a new baby around. Let them know that babies cry a lot, need frequent diaper changes, and pay a lot of attention, especially in the early months. Explain that the baby won’t be able to play with them right away but that they’ll grow and eventually be able to interact and play together.

Be honest but positive, highlighting that although things will change, the new baby will eventually become a fun part of their life. Setting realistic expectations can help reduce any shock or disappointment once the baby arrives.

6. Create Special “Big Sibling” Responsibilities

Older siblings often enjoy having a special role in the family, so give them age-appropriate tasks to help with the baby. For toddlers, this might mean helping grab a diaper or singing to the baby. Older kids can help with more tasks, like reading to the baby or gently pushing the stroller.

Calling them the “big sibling helper” or giving them a “special job” can make them feel proud and important. Reinforce that these are things only a big sibling can do, helping them feel valued and needed.

7. Make Time for One-on-One Attention

With all the excitement and preparation for the new baby, it’s easy for older children to feel left out. Make it a priority to spend quality one-on-one time with them, engaging in activities they enjoy. This can be as simple as reading a favourite book together, going to the park, or having a “big kid” outing.

When the baby arrives, keep this special time in your routine. Even just 15 minutes of focused time each day can make a big difference in helping them feel secure and loved.

8. Celebrate Their Role as an Older Sibling

Make the new sibling’s arrival something for your older child to feel proud of. Throw a small “big sibling” celebration to make them feel important and appreciated. You could give them a small gift, like a “big brother” or “big sister” T-shirt, or create a fun certificate that highlights their new role.

Celebrating their part in the family’s new chapter can make them feel like this is a big moment for them, too, helping them approach the new arrival with a sense of pride and excitement.

9. Prepare for Possible Regressions

It’s normal for some children to regress when a new sibling arrives. They may start seeking more attention or revert to behaviours you thought they’d outgrown, like wanting to be carried or using baby talk. This is a natural response as they adjust to the changes and figure out their new place in the family.

Be patient and reassure them of your love and attention. Gradually encourage them to return to their usual routines, but don’t pressure them. Offering gentle guidance and understanding will help them feel secure as they adapt to their new role.

10. Encourage Bonding After the Baby Arrives

Once the baby is here, help your older child feel involved by encouraging safe, supervised interactions. Let them gently touch or hold the baby, sing a lullaby, or help during diaper changes. Positive experiences together will help foster their bond and help your older child feel included.

Praise them for their gentle behaviour and remind them that the baby loves them and is happy to have such a wonderful sibling. These small moments of bonding can make a big difference in helping your child feel connected to their new sibling.

Extra Support with PEM Confinement Nanny

Welcoming a new baby can be a lot to manage, especially with older siblings in the mix. A confinement nanny in Singapore can provide invaluable support, helping you care for the newborn while you focus on bonding with your older child. PEM Confinement Nanny, an award-winning agency, has over 30 years of experience in providing top-notch care for mothers and babies. With over 550 trained nannies and a track record of serving 50,000 happy mummies, we are known for our comprehensive confinement and newborn care services.

Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Guaranteed arrival of a nanny, ensuring you’re never left without support.
• Year-round customer support for peace of mind.
• A dedicated nanny who can help with newborn care so you can spend quality time with your older child.

We are recognised as the best confinement nanny Singapore has to offer, providing families with reliable, compassionate support during this precious time. With a confinement nanny Singapore trusts, you can confidently focus on your family, knowing your baby and household are in experienced hands. Visit our website to learn more about how our trusted nannies can support you during this exciting time.

Final Thoughts

Welcoming a new baby is a joyful time, but it’s also a big change for older siblings. With a bit of preparation, open conversations, and lots of love, you can help your child feel ready and excited about their new role. Remember, patience and reassurance go a long way in helping your child adjust and embrace the arrival of a new sibling.

By involving them, encouraging their questions, and providing lots of one-on-one time, you’re creating a supportive environment where they feel valued and secure. These simple steps, along with the additional support of a caring confinement nanny in Singapore like PEM, can help you create a strong, loving bond between siblings that will last a lifetime.