When you’re expecting a new baby, you’re likely preparing in many different ways. One of the commonly overlooked, yet most important ways to prepare for a new baby is getting older siblings on board. This is especially true if the older siblings are age 4 or younger. Here are some ways to help prepare that I wish I would have known when I was pregnant, from a professional newborn photographer in Buffalo NY.
1.) A Gift for Baby
Make the idea of the new baby an exciting, shared experience! Helping your child select a gift for the new baby will encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings about what babies need. Getting them involved in things like picking out baby clothes or toys, which will make the idea of a having a baby in the family a little more real for your child. Helping them feel included in the process helps them build a connection with the baby before they even meet.
2.) Read Books About Becoming a Big Sibling
Books are a fantastic way to prepare older children for the arrival of a new sibling. Choose stories that show the joys of having a baby brother or sister, and how special their role as a big sibling is. It’s a great way to help them visualize what’s to come and ease any concerns they might have.
3.) Create a Special “Big Sibling” Role
Older children love to feel important! Help them understand that being a big sibling is a special responsibility. Whether it’s helping with baby-related chores, or simply being a source of comfort, giving them a unique, helpful role can boost their confidence and excitement.
4.) Set Aside One-on-One Time
It’s natural for older children to feel a little nervous or jealous about sharing their parents with a new sibling. To help ease this transition, schedule some one-on-one time with your child before and after the baby arrives. It could be as simple as a special outing or a quiet time together, helping them feel loved and secure in their place in the family.
5.) Involve Them in Baby Prep
Allow your older child to take part in preparations for the new baby. Whether it’s setting up the nursery or picking out a few baby essentials, involving them in the process makes the baby feel less like an unknown entity. This also fosters a sense of ownership and excitement about the new arrival.
6.) Get Them Excited for the Newborn Portrait Session
If you’ve chosen to book a newborn portrait session for your new baby and family, be sure to talk with your older child about it before the baby arrives. Help them to imagine how they’ll get to be a helper in the photos with their new sibling. Explain that the portraits are a way to capture the love and bond between them and the baby. Let them know it’s a fun and special experience, where they can feel proud to be in the pictures. If they’re nervous, remind them that it’s okay to have moments of quiet or silliness, and the photographer will make it a fun experience! You can even practice a few gentle poses at home beforehand so they feel more comfortable and confident on the day of.
By making the experience feel inclusive and special, older children can look forward to their new sibling with love and enthusiasm!
If you’re looking for a high quality newborn photographer in Buffalo NY, I’d love to meet you! My name is Sarah, owner of Rosebud Studio of Photography in East Aurora. I specialize in newborn & family photography as well as creating heirloom, archival quality printed products for your home. For more information, please visit my website here or contact me here about scheduling a session for your family!
