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Prepare Your Toddler for a Sibling: 7 Tips to Make the Transition Smoother (and Keep Your Sanity Intact)

eatonkianamarie3

Updated: Jan 27

The moment you announce you’re expecting, it’s so easy to daydream about your toddler meeting their new sibling—all the cute snuggles and proud “I’m a big sibling now” moments. But then reality taps you on the shoulder and whispers, “What about the toddler’s emotions?” Suddenly, you’re picturing less of a Hallmark moment and more of a toddler-sized meltdown because the baby looked at their favorite stuffed animal. Sound familiar? Don’t worry; I’ve got tips to help you prepare for this wild ride. Whether you’ve got a Velcro toddler glued to your hip, an independent little adventurer, or siblings with a bit of an age gap, let’s dive in!


baby boy listening for his baby sister

1. Talk Early, Talk Often

The first step to prepare your toddler for a sibling is to start chatting about the baby as soon as you’re comfortable sharing the news. Toddlers aren’t exactly known for their long attention spans, so keep it simple and sprinkle the baby talk into everyday moments. Point to your growing belly and say, “There’s a baby in here!” But don’t stop there. Talk about what it means for them. Maybe mention that babies cry (a lot LOL) and might need extra attention sometimes, but your love for them isn’t going anywhere. Think of it as planting little seeds of understanding, even if they’re more interested in their snack than your life-changing announcement.

2. Get Them Involved in the Process

Toddlers love feeling like the boss, so let them “help” with baby prep. Picking out baby clothes? Let them choose a onesie (even if it’s neon orange and a busy print). Setting up the nursery? Hand them a stuffed animal to “decorate” with. Giving them these little jobs makes them feel like they’re part of the team. Who knew that sorting tiny socks could turn into a bonding moment?


being told he's going become a big brother

3. Keep Routines Consistent

Toddlers thrive on routines. While your life might turn into a beautiful chaos once the baby arrives, try to keep their routine intact. Same bedtime, same snack time, same “no pants, no problem” morning dance party. It’s their anchor in the storm, and trust me, you’ll want that stability as much as they do.

4. Help Them Understand Sharing Attention

Sharing is hard. Sharing you? Even harder. Start practicing early by showing them how the baby will need attention too, but that doesn’t mean they’re getting less love. Use a doll or stuffed animal to role-play scenarios, like mommy holding the baby but still available for hugs. And don’t forget to hype them up with phrases like, “You’re going to be the BEST big sibling!” Confidence boost? Check!


sweet young girl reaching for her baby sibling still in moms tummy

5. Understand the "Velcro" Toddler

If your toddler’s favorite place is within a 2-foot radius of you, a new baby might feel like competition. Double down on snuggles and reassure them that while the baby needs attention, there’s still plenty of you to go around. And hey, short separations can help (and where your partner can help the most!)—like running to the mailbox solo or sneaking in a quick solo shower (remember those?). Little by little, they’ll see that you’re always coming back.

6. For Independent Kids: Celebrate Their Growing Independence

Got a toddler who’s all about “I do it myself” energy? (Leah is in this phase!) Lean into it! Let them take on “big kid” tasks like fetching diapers or “helping” with baby toys. But remember, just because they’re independent doesn’t mean they don’t need extra love and reassurance. Keep cheering them on while making space for those quiet cuddle moments. Even your “little boss” needs a break now and then.

older sisters warmly embracing their newborn sister. age gap siblings

7. Age Gap Siblings: Emphasize the Fun Side of the Gap

If there’s a bigger age gap, your kiddo might feel like the baby is here to steal their spotlight. Flip the script and focus on the perks! “When your sibling gets bigger, you can teach them how to ride a bike!” Or “You’re going to be their hero!” Highlighting their “super cool big sibling” status can help them feel excited about their new role. And let’s be real: avoid turning them into the live-in babysitter unless they’re into it. Let them be a kid, too.


Final Thoughts About Preparing Your Toddler for a Sibling

Becoming a big sibling is a huge deal for your toddler (or older kid(s) and for you!), but with a little prep and a lot of patience, the transition can be smoother than you think. Some days will be full of giggles and sibling bonding, and other days will be…well, full of toddler tantrums and spit-up. But through it all, you’ll find your rhythm. And one day, you’ll look around and realize you’re not just juggling—you’re thriving!!


Hang in there, mama! You’ve got this. And if you need a laugh or a virtual high-five, you know where to find me.





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