Adjusting to A New Sibling: Real-Life Tips from a Mom of Three and Alberta Photographer

Let’s be honest—adjusting to a new sibling to your older child can feel like navigating uncharted waters.

That’s because you are!

As a mom of three, I’m here to assure you that while this journey can be a little bumpy, it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences your family will go through. I’ll never forget the moment my girls met their baby sister for the first time in the hospital—there were literal tears of joy. They were smitten.

But the real adjustment began once we got home. The baby needed most of my attention, and suddenly, my older girls realized things had changed. That shift can be hard on little ones—and that’s why preparing for a new baby is so important.

This is a huge change in their world, and how we handle the transition can make all the difference. The good news? You’re already taking the first step just by being here!

New Sibling Adjustment Tips: What You Can Do NOW

1. Read Books Together

Books are an excellent way to gently introduce the idea of a new baby. Some of our family favorites are:

• I’m a Big Sister / I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole
• Siblings without Rivalry by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

These books help explain both the excitement and the challenges of becoming a sibling in a way kids can understand.

2. Let Them Help Prepare

Involve your child in setting up the nursery! Ask them to choose a special gift for the baby or help pick out books and decorations. When we were getting ready for our youngest, we took our girls to the bookstore to choose the baby’s first book for the nursery shelf—it helped them feel included and important.

Helping Kids Adapt to a New Baby Once They’re Home

Once your baby is home, the reality sets in. Helping kids adapt to a new baby is all about inclusion, reassurance, and patience.

3. Keep Communication Open

Talk regularly with your older child about how they’re feeling. Ask questions, listen to their worries, and validate their emotions. It’s okay for them to feel unsure or even upset—that doesn’t make them a bad sibling.

4. Encourage Safe “Helping”

Let your older child participate in caring for the baby in safe and simple ways. Whether they’re picking out an outfit, singing a lullaby, or telling a story, these little tasks help foster a bond and give them a sense of purpose.

5. Plan One-on-One Time

Jealousy can sneak in, no matter how well you prepare. Set aside one-on-one time for your older child—even small moments can go a long way. Because my girls are 3 and 2.5 years apart, I’d use preschool pickup time for a quick library trip or hot chocolate date. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about being present.

6. Keep Their Routine

Try to maintain familiar routines. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a certain snack, or a funny face you make at dinner—these constants are comforting when everything else feels new.

Parenting Advice for New Siblings: Grace, Patience, and Flexibility

Every child is different, and they’ll all respond in their own unique way. Be gentle with yourself and your little ones as you all adjust. This is a time of growth, love, and learning—for everyone.

I hope these new sibling adjustment tips help ease your transition and make this special time a little smoother.

And if you’re looking for a way to beautifully capture the bond between older children and new siblings, I’d love to help. My sessions are designed to highlight those precious first moments—real, raw, and filled with love.

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I hope reading From Only Child to Older Sibling: Preparing Your Firstborn for Their New Role as Big Sibling has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a West Edmonton Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of NEWBORN images.


Or, maybe you’d like to learn more about how a session with an older sibling looks like – read more here!