Introducing a Sibling: How to Support Your Child When a New Baby Arrives

Written by parenting expert Prudence Beeby, founder of A Mother’s Touch, Norland nanny, and trusted support for families navigating the early days of parenthood.

Welcoming a new baby is a moment of joy — but it’s also a big transition, especially for older siblings. Every family is different, and so is every child’s reaction to becoming a big brother or sister. As a parent, you may feel a mix of excitement, guilt, worry, and wonder — and that’s completely normal.

This guide offers expert tips to help your older child adjust to a new sibling with empathy, confidence, and care.

Before the Baby Arrives: Laying the Foundations

Preparing your child before the birth can ease the transition and build early bonds. Depending on their age, try the following:

• 🤰 Let them feel the baby kicking or place their hand on your bump

• 📚 Read age-appropriate books about becoming a big brother or sister

• 🧸 Use dolls for roleplay — pretending to feed, change, or cuddle the baby

• 🎨 Invite them to choose a small gift, outfit, or toy for their sibling

• 📷 Look at baby photos of themselves to help them understand what newborns are like

Encourage open questions. Have a few calm, reassuring answers ready so you’re not caught off guard. The goal isn’t to “explain everything” — it’s to make your child feel included, important, and secure.

Emotional Reactions: What’s Normal?

Children respond to change in all sorts of ways. Some might be excited and affectionate from the start. Others may feel unsure, withdrawn, or show signs of regression — like wanting to be carried, using baby talk, or struggling with sleep.

These behaviours are not “bad” — they’re signals. Your child is adjusting and needs reassurance.

What helps:

• Positive reinforcement for their “big sibling” role

• Keeping their routine as consistent as possible

• Lots of cuddles, eye contact, and one-on-one time

• Storybooks that explore sibling feelings

• Gentle reminders that they are still loved and important

Managing Change: Timing Is Key

Try to avoid making big changes (like starting nursery, moving house, or toilet training) right around the baby’s arrival.

If your child needs to move to a new bedroom or into a “big kid bed,” plan the transition at least 4 months before your due date. This helps prevent them associating the change with being “replaced” by the baby.

Let them be part of the change — choosing bedding, decorating their space, or adding something special that’s just for them.

Planning for the Birth

Help your child feel secure by preparing them for what will happen when you go into labour.

• Who will look after them?

• Will they be at home or at a family member’s house?

• What’s the plan for day vs. night?

• Who can they talk to if they miss you?

Keep things simple and reassuring. Let them know they will be well cared for, and remind them they’ll meet the baby soon.

First Introduction: Let It Unfold Naturally

Once baby has arrived, involve your child early — but gently.

• Don’t rush the moment — follow your child’s lead

• They may prefer to observe at first before touching or holding

• Start with small, safe actions — like touching baby’s hand or feet

• Praise your child’s gentleness and kindness

• Encourage them to talk, sing, or help with simple tasks

Remember, this is their adjustment too. It’s okay if it takes time.

Creating a Buffer of Stability

What your older child needs most is a sense of security and connection.

• Keep familiar routines (especially around meals and bedtime)

• Build in 1-on-1 moments, even just 10 minutes a day

• Ask visiting friends or relatives to engage with your older child too — read a book, play a game, or talk about their day

• Let your child set the pace of involvement. Some will want to help, others may prefer to observe — both are valid.

Tip: Bedtime is a powerful moment for connection. Use bath time and stories to check in emotionally and offer reassurance.

Adding a sibling is a huge transition — for you, your child, and your family dynamic. Be patient with yourself and your little one. There is no perfect way to do it — just a path that’s loving, intentional, and attuned to your child’s needs.

And if you ever feel you need more personalised support, I’d be more than happy to help.

With warmth,

Prudence