How To Make Older Siblings Feel Special With A New Baby

Ready to bring a new baby into the family?

While you’re preparing for moments of tiny socks, the smell of baby lotion, diaper changes, and midnight crying, there’s another little one in your home who might be feeling a little overshadowed. Or they may be feeling like they’ve been demoted from the rank of ‘The Only Supreme Kid’ to ‘Just Another One.’

However, it’s not an uncommon reaction for the elder kids when they realize they have been handed a pink slip for their role as the only child in the home.

However, it is not that hard to put a few efforts into making your older child feel as special and loved as the new one. But know—you just can’t bribe them with cookies forever.

Read below to learn some of the key approaches to how you can make an older sibling feel special with a new baby.

A VIP Time

The best approach when it comes to making your elder child feel special is to host a VIP time exclusively for him where he can get undivided attention from the parents. From engaging in some fun activities to having one-on-one conversations without any interruptions, these little efforts can greatly reduce any feelings of jealousy. Who knows, you might also discover your love for Play Doh. 

Secret Handshake

Create your own secret handshake that is just between you and your elder child. And make it a special way of communicating amidst the chaos of diaper changes and feedings. In fact, some surveys have shown that similar approaches to these help boost a sense of intimacy and belonging.

Sibling Shower

Why should your smallest one enjoy everything?

It’s time to throw a ‘Rain Party’ to celebrate your older child as he takes on the new role of an elder brother or sister. You may even send invitations to some of your close friends and family members. These little parties are significant in recharging their happiness.

Special StoryTime

Nighttime storytime sessions are great fun for every kid. However, engaging in such daily sessions might seem burdensome, especially when you struggle with the added responsibility of a new baby.

However, whether it’s for 10 minutes or half an hour, take your time aside to create a bedtime story where your elder kid is the hero. You can continue adding new chapters each day, mentioning how the hero saved the day with the baby or maybe about some fictitious adventures. 

Not only will it assist in their emotional closeness with you, but it will also help enhance their creative skills.

The Sibling Survival Guide

If your elder child is a little grown up, this survival guide hack will not only help you tackle the struggle of unwantedness but also improve their language skills.

Together, jot down some fun points in a notebook about tips for dealing with crying babies, handling baby mess, or entertaining your little sibling. Teaching your older child about how to engage with a baby can have a positive impact on improving the sibling relationship and overcoming any feelings of neglect.