How to Prepare Your Child for a New Sibling — With Creativity and Love
Welcoming a new baby into the family is a joyful milestone, but for older siblings, it can also stir up big emotions and questions. As parents and grandparents, we want to help children feel secure, included, and excited about the changes ahead. The key? Creativity, connection, and a whole lot of love.
Start the Conversation Early
It's important to start talking to your child about the new baby early on. This gives them time to process the information and ask any questions they may have. Keep the conversations light and positive, emphasising how much fun it will be to have a new sibling to play with.
Start with Empathy
Children thrive when they feel seen and heard. Begin by gently acknowledging their feelings — whether it’s excitement, confusion, or even worry. Let them know it’s okay to have mixed emotions and that their place in the family is still special and secure.
Simple phrases like:
• “You’re going to be such a wonderful big brother/sister.”
• “Mummy’s heart is growing even bigger to love both of you.”
…can go a long way in nurturing reassurance.
Make It Tangible Through Play
Young children understand the world best through play. That’s why I created Mummy is Growing a Baby — a mindful, interactive activity book designed to help children process the journey of pregnancy in a way that feels safe, fun, and empowering.
Inside, you’ll find:
• 🍓 Fruit and vegetable-themed colouring pages that track the baby’s growth month by month
• 🧸 Gentle prompts that encourage bonding, like drawing pictures for the baby or imagining what they’ll be like
• 💬 Affirmations that build confidence and emotional connection
These activities aren’t just fun — they’re tools for emotional literacy, helping children express themselves and feel involved.
Tell Stories That Reflect Their Experience
Books and stories are powerful mirrors. Choose picture books that show siblings navigating change, sharing love, and finding their unique role in the family. Better still, create your own! "So You're Going to be a Big Brother/Sister" is a story that is personalised to your family about becoming a big sibling. Reading this book together can help your child understand what to expect and normalise the idea of having a new sibling.
Give Them a Role
Children feel empowered when they have a purpose. Let them help choose baby clothes, decorate the nursery, or pack a hospital bag. Even small tasks like picking a lullaby or drawing a welcome sign can make them feel proud and included.
Encourage Expressing Feelings
It's normal for your child to have mixed emotions about the new baby. Encourage them to express their feelings, whether it's excitement, jealousy, or fear. Let them know that all their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them. Mummy is Growing a Baby provides a weekly space for them to explore their thoughts and feelings and to record them in the space provided.
Celebrate the Journey Together
Mark milestones with mini celebrations like a “Big Sibling Day” or a countdown calendar. Use stickers, crafts, or affirmations to make each week feel special. These rituals build anticipation and joy, turning waiting into a shared adventure.
Plan Special One-on-One Time
With a new baby in the house, it's easy for your older child to feel left out. Make sure to plan special one-on-one time with them, whether it's a trip to the park, a movie night, or just a quiet moment reading together. This will reassure them that they are still loved and important.
Preparing your child for a new sibling isn’t just about managing change — it’s about deepening connection. With creativity, empathy, and intentional tools like Mummy is Growing a Baby and So You're Going to be a Big Brother/Sister you can help your child feel cherished, confident, and ready to welcome their new sibling with open arms.
Because love grows — and so does your family.