Preparing Toddlers for a New Sibling With Storybooks
Harnimom – By Julia Roberts
When I was pregnant with our second baby, I worried less about diapers and more about my toddler. Would she feel left out? Would she act out? The best decision I made was using storybooks to gently prepare her—before the baby ever arrived.
In this post, I’ll share how storybooks can help your toddler understand what’s coming, feel secure in their place, and even look forward to being a big sibling.
Why Toddlers Struggle With New Siblings
For toddlers (especially ages 1–3), a new sibling can feel confusing, unfair, or even scary.
Common toddler reactions include:
- Clinginess or jealousy
- Regressing in skills (sleep, potty, talking)
- Acting out to get attention
- Worry about being “replaced”
Storybooks help toddlers see themselves in the big change—and offer them the words and emotional safety they need.
How Books Make the Transition Easier
Storybooks give toddlers a peek into:
- What to expect during pregnancy and after baby arrives
- How babies act, sound, and need help
- Their special role as an older sibling
- Emotions like love, frustration, curiosity, and patience
Most importantly, books validate your toddler’s feelings while also modeling love and inclusion.
Featured Book: Ellie’s Little Star- A Big Sister’s Promise
In Ellie’s Little Star- A Big Sister’s Promise, Ellie notices changes in her mom, then meets her new baby brother. She feels unsure, excited, and a little sad. With help from her parents—and some clever toddler-sized tasks—Ellie finds her place and discovers the joy of being a big sister.
Why it works:
- Narrates from the toddler’s perspective
- Validates “big feelings” and messy moments
- Shows real routines (crying, waiting, helping, cuddling)
- Ends with pride and connection
Now available in the Ellie Storybook Collection → View Book
Other Toddler-Friendly Books About New Siblings
These stories are gentle, engaging, and toddler-tested:
I’m a Big Brother / I’m a Big Sister by Joanna Cole
Simple text, warm illustrations. Great for preparing toddlers without overwhelming them.
Hello in There! by Jo Witek
From pregnancy to baby’s arrival, this interactive book helps toddlers feel included from the start.
Waiting for Baby / Hello Baby by Rachel Fuller
Board books that focus on everyday scenes, perfect for ages 1–2.
Ellie Becomes a Big Sister by Julia Roberts
Validates real toddler emotions and shows how their love—and role—can grow too.
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How to Use These Books Effectively
Here’s how I used storybooks to help my daughter prepare:
- Start reading them early—even before your belly shows
- Read them often, especially during quiet moments like bedtime
- Pause to ask how your toddler feels (“Do you think Ellie was happy or mad?”)
- Let your toddler help pick out books and turn pages
- Act out scenes with stuffed animals or dolls to practice real-life situations
Bonus: Create a “Big Sibling Book Basket” to keep the stories handy.
Gentle Phrases to Use With Your Toddler
Books can open up emotional conversations. Here are phrases I used often:
- “The baby is new, but you made me a mommy.”
- “Babies cry, but that doesn’t mean I love you any less.”
- “You’re helping the baby already just by being kind.”
- “It’s okay to feel mad or jealous sometimes. I’m here.”
These affirmations, paired with storybooks, make toddlers feel safe and seen.
Free Download: “Daily Routine Set For Toddlers”
Help your toddler feel ready with this gentle printable set:
Download the Kit Free
Final Thoughts
Bringing home a new baby is a major shift—but with a little storytelling and a lot of empathy, your toddler can feel secure, involved, and even proud.
Books gave my daughter the words to ask questions, the space to feel jealous, and the joy of saying, “I’m the big sister!” Yours can too.
