Last updated on February 3rd, 2025 at 09:51 pm

The arrival of a new baby can be challenging, especially for older siblings. Welcoming a new child into your homerepresents a big life change that requires preparation and adjustment. This article offers tips on making the transition smoother for your older children and setting the whole family up for success.
Talk Openly About the New Arrival
Once you know you are expecting a new baby or planning to foster with an agency like Foster Care Associates, start talking to your older child about it. Break the news gently and positively, emphasising how the baby will be a new playmate and that your love is unlimited. Reassure them that they will still receive attention and quality time with you. Explain practical changes like moving rooms or beds to get them comfortable with the idea. Outline what life will look like after the baby arrives so they know what to expect.
Get Them Involved
Giving your older child tasks and jobs to do leading up to the arrival is a great way to make them feel part of the process. Ask them to help pick out clothes, toys and books for the new baby. Have them make welcome cards to put up around the nursery or give as gifts to the family. Let them assist with shopping for supplies or setting up the crib. Gently explain some of the ways they will need to be careful and quiet once the baby is here. The more involved they feel, the smoother the adjustment will be.
Spend Quality One-on-One Time
In the months before and after your new arrival, spend plenty of quality one-on-one time with your older child. Do their favourite activities like reading books, playing games, going to the park or getting an ice cream. Reassure them that they are still your special boy or girl through this dedicated time and physical affection. Maintain any regular outings or routines you share as much as possible after the baby arrives to give them a sense of normalcy.
Teach Gentle Touch and Empathy
Use dolls or stuffed animals to demonstrate how to gently hold, touch or play with a baby. Explain that babies cannot move around, speak or play like they can yet. Try role-playing by having them pretend to be the parent. Encourage them to empathise with how tiring and hard it is to care for a newborn. Praise them when they show patience, gentleness or maturity about becoming a big sibling.
Prepare for Regression
It is common for older children to temporarily regress or act out after a new sibling arrives. Sleep regression, tantrums, clinginess, aggression or reverting to baby talk are all normal. Respond gently and continue to provide affection while sticking to your usual limits and household rules. Accept that they may need some extra one-on-one attention during this time of adjustment. Reassure them that this phase will pass.
Welcoming a new baby or sibling into your family is a joyful milestone but it also represents a significant change. Thoughtful preparation and care for your firstborn during the transition lays a strong foundation for a positive lifelong sibling relationship. With open communication, consistent routines and one-on-one attention, you can guide your child through this adjustment successfully.