The arrival of a new baby can be a major adjustment for older siblings, so why not make things a little smoother with a special big sibling kit? Here are some items to consider including:

“I’m a Big Sibling” swag

Help your older child feel proud of their new role with a fun T-shirt, button, or sticker proclaiming their status as a big sibling. You could even find matching sets for the kids! Is it cheesy? Absolutely. But kids love cheese and it’ll make them feel like they’re part of the team.

Busy Bags

Sometimes (or a lot of the time) you need your older kiddo to entertain themselves, especially during those early postpartum days. Special activity bags filled with puzzles, coloring books, or simple toys can keep your older child occupied during those inevitable newborn feeding marathons, when baby needs extra attention, or when you need to hear yourself think for a second. I recommend items that require little supervision and make little mess (skip the play dough or slime for now, yah?). The color wonder pages and markers water-wonder books are great mess-free options for kids who attempt to color on anything but paper.

Baby doll or stuffed animal

Give your older child a baby doll or stuffed animal to practice taking care of. It can be a fun way to teach them about gentle handling and baby care, while also giving them a sense of involvement in the baby’s life. One of my favorite ways to include toddlers in baby activities is inviting them to feed their baby or stuffed animal while I’m nursing the baby.

Easy Snacks and drinks

If I had a nickel for every time my kid asked me for a snack during the day, I would be incredibly well-off. Set-up an easy grab and go snack station for older kids to keep them fueled. Having a stash of their favorite snacks can be a magical way to turn a potential meltdown into a moment of sanity-saving distraction. Snacks have superpowers, after all. We keep one of the produce drawers in the fridge with pre-sliced fruit and veg for the kids to easily grab. In the pantry, we have a bin of kid snacks they are welcome to, so I don’t have to come up with more snack ideas on the spot.

Books about Siblings

Books are a great way to foster understanding, empathy, and excitement about becoming a sibling in your older child. Reading together can help spark conversations and address any worries or questions they may have about the new baby. You’re nurturing their relationship and setting the stage for a lifetime of sibling love and support. I have a list of my favorite sibling books here.

Remember,  there’s no right or wrong way to introduce your older child to their new sibling. Providing them with a special big sibling kit may help them feel included, important, and loved during this transition. Check out my curated list of items you may want to include in a new sibling kit!