When the Siblings Arrive: Helping Big Brothers and Sisters Welcome a Newborn

Welcoming a new baby is a beautiful milestone, not just for parents, but also for the older siblings who are about to step into a whole new role. For many children, the transition from “only child” to “big brother” or “big sister” is exciting but also can be confusing, overwhelming, or emotionally rocky.

Understanding the Sibling Transition

When a new baby arrives, older siblings often experience a mix of:

• Curiosity (“What does the baby do?”)

• Excitement (“I’m the big sibling!”)

• Regression (sleep changes, clinginess)

• Big feelings (jealousy, confusion, protectiveness)

This is normal. Their world is changing, and they’re learning where they fit now.

The key is support, preparation, and inclusion.

Practical Ways to Prepare Older Siblings

1. Talk About the Baby Early

Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain what newborns are like: they sleep a lot, cry to communicate, and need help eating and soothing.  Sometimes showing videos of different babies so they can get used the the cry and sounds works beautifully.

Getting them a baby doll and showing them different ways to care for it can be really useful.

Having the baby doll go into the bouncer and crib can help the child to understand where the baby will be (and prevent toddlers in the swing!)

For toddlers or preschoolers, picture books about becoming a sibling can be super helpful.

Here are few books we recommend: 

Poppy’s Best Babies by Susan Eaddy, illustrated by Rosalinde Bonnet

Super Saurus and the Egg by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Ned Young

First Laugh: Welcome, Baby! by Rose Tahe and Nancy Bo Blood, illustrated by Jonathan Nelson

YouTube also has some great read-along videos for introducing toddlers to a new baby such as I Am a Big Sister | Read-Along and I Am a Big Brother | Read-Along both by Caroline Jayne Church. 

2. Give Them a “Special Job”

Kids thrive on responsibility. Offer them small, predictable roles:

• Fetching wipes

• Bringing a blanket

• Picking out a onesie

• Singing to the baby

These tasks build confidence and connection without pressure.

3. Maintain Routines Wherever Possible

Children feel safest when life stays familiar.
Continue favorite rituals: bedtime stories, morning snuggles, after-dinner playtime.

These “anchors” help minimize jealousy and reassure them their needs still matter.

4. Celebrate Them, Too

Welcome your older child into their new role with:

• A “Big Sibling” gift

• Time alone with a parent or caregiver

• Affirming language: “The baby is lucky to have you.”

• A special box of toys that comes out when mom is nursing to help them feel special and to give something focus on during that time

Feeling seen reduces the urge to compete for attention.

5. Expect and Normalize Big Feelings

Older siblings may show frustration, anger, sadness, or clinginess.
Avoid shaming or shutting down their emotions.

Try phrases like:

• “It’s okay to feel upset. I’m here with you.”

• “You’re learning something new, just like the baby.”

This builds emotional resilience and secure attachment.

Bringing home a second (or third, fourth, etc.) baby adds a new rhythm to family life. With preparation, compassion, and the right support, your older children can feel confident, included, and deeply connected to their new role.

At Louisville Newborn Care, we’re honored to be part of that journey. Whether you need daytime help, overnight newborn care, or hands-on support with sibling integration, our team is here to bring peace, ease, and partnership into your growing family.

Ready for support?
Reach out anytime or explore our newborn care and postpartum services. Your village is right here. View our services.