Easing your child into the mind frame of begin a big sister or brother takes some time. Here are some book recommendations to help the conversation:
- Raisin, the Littlest Cow by Miriam Busch and Larry Day. HarperCollins 2017. Raisin, the littlest cow on the farm, loves being the littlest. Read this book to find out what happens when she gets a little brother.
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How to Be a Baby . . . by Me, the Big Sister by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Sue Heap. Dragonfly Books, 2011. Narrated by a new big sister, this book combines her observations of the experience, with a long list of things that babies can’t do and an endearing explanation of what babies are good at. For ages 4-8.
- Big Brothers are the Best by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Kirsten Richards. Picture Window, 2012. This book tells the story of a toddler who is becoming a big brother. This book helps prepare children for a new baby, making it clear that they will play a special role in the family as big sibling. For ages 2-5.
- A Guide to Being a Big Sister by Natalie Shaw, illustrated by Patrick Spaziante. Simon Spotlight, 2014. This storybook with stickers is part of the Olivia series. Olivia shares her favorite tips about being an older sibling. This is a humorous book for ages 3-6.
- I’m a Big Brother Now by Michael Gordon. Amazon Digital, 2017. Henry’s mother tells him that he’s going to be a big brother, but his excitement changes to disappointment when his new baby sister comes home. This rhyming book is a story that explains the patience needed when becoming a big brother.
- Waiting for Baby by Rachel Fuller. Child’s PLay, 2009. A short book for toddlers as they await the birth of their new sibling. Colorful pictures and a story that will lead to conversations that help prepare your child for the new arrival. For ages 5-6.
- My Little Sister by Gilberto Mariscal. Curvilinea, 2016. Good for new siblings ages 3-5 who are feeling like they are no longer getting the attention they used to receive.
- You Are New by Lucy Knisley. Chronicle Books LLC, 2019. This is a book you can read to your newborn, while your “big kid” listens, too. Or, if you have a young reader, have them read this sweet book to their new sibling!
- Need something more active? The Big Sibling Book: Baby’s First Year According to Me by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Potter Style, 2009. This book/journal has stickers, interview forms, and areas for the big sibling to keep track of baby’s firsts. For kids ages 2-6 (with help from a grown-up.
