A new baby changes everything for a two- or three-year-old. Small steps before and after the birth help your big kid feel included instead of replaced.
Five things that help
- Tell them close to the time. Little kids don't understand months. Link it to something they know, like "after your birthday".
- Read stories about babies. A picture book gives your child words for the feelings they can't explain yet.
- Give them a real job. Fetching a diaper or choosing the baby's socks makes them a helper, not a spectator.
- Keep ten minutes that are only theirs. Same time every day, no baby, no phone.
- Expect some going backwards. Baby talk or potty accidents are common for a while. Stay calm and give extra hugs.
Free: the big sister and brother kit
A certificate, a photo page and the "20 things to say" poster.
The book for this step
Peekaboo, Big Sister! and Big Brother!, for new big kids who feel left out.
See the bookGeneral parenting information, not medical advice.