When you are expecting your second child, the joy is often mixed with a little nervousness. While you’re excited to meet your new baby, you also wonder how your firstborn will adjust to such a big change.

When I learned I was pregnant with my second child, my mind instantly went to my son, Aanas. At five years old, he was used to being the center of my attention. I wanted him to embrace his role as a big brother with love, excitement, and confidence—not confusion or jealousy.

Here is the step-by-step journey of how I prepared Aanas for the arrival of his baby sister.

Starting Early: Talking About the Baby in My Tummy

I began introducing the idea of a sibling to Aanas early in my pregnancy. I didn’t want the news to feel sudden or overwhelming for him. Using simple, clear language, I explained that a tiny baby was growing inside my tummy and that, in a few months, he would meet her.

To make this real for him, I read him children’s books about becoming an older sibling. One of our favorites was “I Am a Big Brother”. The short sentences and colorful illustrations helped him understand his upcoming role without feeling pressured.

Making Him Part of the Pregnancy Journey

I didn’t want Aanas to feel left out while I was preparing for the baby, so I involved him in little ways:

  • Letting him place his hand on my tummy to feel the baby’s kicks
  • Showing him ultrasound images and explaining what they meant
  • Asking him to choose between two outfits for the baby or suggest a blanket color

These moments gave him a sense of connection and importance, making the baby’s arrival something he could look forward to rather than worry about.

Giving Him a Special “Big Brother” Role

To help him feel proud, I explained that being a big brother was like being a superhero. His special mission was to protect, guide, and love his baby sister. We even made a handmade “Big Brother Badge” with cardboard and glitter, which he wore proudly.

This little role-play made him see the transition as something exciting rather than scary.

Preparing Him for My Hospital Stay

I knew the days I would be in the hospital could feel lonely for him. So, I prepared him in advance: I explained that I would go to the hospital to help the baby come into the world, but I would be thinking about him every single moment.

I also put together a “Big Brother Gift Bag” for him, filled with his favorite biscuits, a small toy car, and a handwritten note from me. This small gesture made him feel remembered and loved during our short separation.

Keeping His Routine Consistent

Young children feel safe when life is predictable. So while I was in the hospital and after I returned home, I ensured his daily routine stayed the same—his mealtimes, bedtime story, and school schedule continued without sudden changes.

This stability gave him a sense of security, even while our family dynamics were changing.

Planning the First Sibling Meeting

When the day finally came for him to meet his sister, I made sure she was lying in her crib when he entered the room. My arms were free to hug him first, letting him know that he still had my full love and attention.

I then introduced him to the baby and let him hold her gently while sitting on my lap. I praised him for being gentle and told him how happy his sister would be to have such a caring big brother.

Creating Bonding Moments

From the start, I encouraged little ways for him to connect with her:

  • Singing lullabies together
  • Helping me by passing baby wipes or a diaper
  • Talking softly to her so she could recognize his voice

These moments built their sibling bond naturally, without forcing it.

Making Special Time for Just Him

Even after the baby arrived, I made sure to spend dedicated time with Aanas. Sometimes it was reading his favorite book before bed, other times it was a short walk to the park. These small moments reassured him that my love for him was unchanged.

What I Learned Through This Experience

Looking back, I realized that preparing a child for a sibling isn’t just about talking—it’s about making them feel included, respected, and loved throughout the journey. Children notice when they are valued, and that reassurance makes the transition smoother.

Tips for Parents Preparing an Older Child for a New Baby

  • Start the conversation early so the child has time to adjust.
  • Involve them in small decisions about the baby.
  • Celebrate their new role with words, small gifts, or badges.
  • Keep their daily life stable to prevent insecurity.
  • Give them one-on-one attention even after the baby arrives.

FAQs: Preparing Your Firstborn for a Sibling

Q: When should I tell my child about the pregnancy?
A: Tell them early enough so they can process the idea, but be mindful of their age and ability to understand time.

Q: How can I reduce jealousy?
A: Acknowledge their feelings, involve them in caring for the baby, and reassure them daily that they are loved.

Q: Should I give a gift from the baby to the older child?
A: Yes, it’s a sweet way to make them feel welcomed into the sibling relationship.

Final Thoughts

Preparing Aanas for his baby sister was a journey of patience, love, and intentional moments. Today, when I see him holding her tiny hands and whispering, “I’m here for you,” I know all those months of preparation made a difference.

It’s proof that with a little effort and a lot of love, the transition from being an only child to becoming a big brother can be a beautiful chapter in your family’s story.