Helping Older Children Welcome a New Baby
Welcoming a second (or third) child is a beautiful and joyful time — but it brings change. Older siblings often feel excited and curious, but also uncertain or overlooked. One thoughtful tradition parents are exploring is gifting between siblings — letting the older child pick out something for the new baby, and maybe the baby (or parents) give something small to the older child — to help everyone feel involved and loved.
Here’s what experts say, why it works, and how you can make it feel meaningful (plus some gift ideas from Blue Almonds to help you out).
Why Sibling Gifting Helps
- Creating a positive emotional tone. Parents.com reports that gifting the first child before introducing them to their new sibling can help establish a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and reduce jealousy.
- Building attachment and emotional security. Helping older kids feel involved in the pregnancy and birth (such as choosing a gift or participating in nursery prep) supports their sense of importance and connection. This aligns with guidance from Little Ones.
- Normalising change and helping children cope. Parenting experts argue that change is less threatening when children feel seen and included. Giving them a role or responsibility (even symbolic) is part of helping them adjust.
How to Do Sibling Gifting Thoughtfully
Based on guidance from parenting experts, here are some simple, thoughtful ways families can make sibling gifting feel special:
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Let the older child choose a gift for the new baby.
Give them options (say 2–3 age-appropriate items) and let them pick. It could be something simple: a soft toy, or a little blanket. The act of choosing can help them feel involved, seen, special. -
Acknowledge the older child with a “from baby” gesture.
Experts suggest that symbolic gestures — a toy, ribbon, or small gift “from the baby” to the older sibling — help set a tone of affection, fairness, and connection. -
Keep expectations realistic and age-appropriate.
If a child is very young, they may not understand everything. According to experts, Being flexible, allowing them to express mixed emotions, and giving them space are important parts. -
Make the moment special.
Perhaps wrap the sibling’s gift, display it somewhere, or let the older child help present the new baby’s gift. It doesn’t need to be extravagant — just intentional.
“A thoughtful gift between siblings is more than a present — it’s the start of a lifelong bond.”
Ideas for Gifts that Build Bonding
Families often find that small, timeless pieces make these gestures even more meaningful. A few favourites include:
- From older sibling to new baby: A soft blanket, a babygrow from our Heritage collection, or a keepsake that older siblings can help pick.
- From new baby to older sibling: A toy, puzzle or soft toy to keep big brothers and sisters feeling included. For an extra-sweet connection, some of our collections — like the Heritage range — even include matching pyjamas for older children, so siblings can share the same beloved prints from day one.
How This Supports the Whole Family
- Reduces feelings of jealousy or rivalry, because the older child is not just “seeing the baby get everything” — they also get to give and be part of the process.
- Helps parents feel more at ease, knowing they are actively including older children rather than letting unidentified stress build up.
- Builds lasting positive memories: sibling gift exchanges can become traditions, anchoring the family story in kindness, inclusivity, care.
Gifting Between Siblings: FAQ
Is this approach recommended by experts?
Yes — parenting resources such as Parents.com and Little Ones suggest that intentional inclusion through rituals or small traditions (like gift exchange) can ease the transition for older kids and support positive sibling relationships.
Does it require big gifts?
No — the value of the gift is not as important as the meaning. What matters is letting the older child pick something, being part of the process, and feeling seen. Even a small toy, a blanket, or something symbolic does the work.
When should you do this?
Some families plan this just before the baby arrives, some when the baby is born. Timing depends on your older child’s age, temperament and what feels authentic for your family.
