5 Ways to Prepare Your Child for a New Sibling
ATHENS, GEORGIA MATERNITY & NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER
“Giving them a ‘job’ helps them feel included and proud, instead of just wondering why this tiny human is getting all the attention.”
Bringing a new baby into the family is a big deal—especially for the tiny humans who are about to be promoted to Big Sibling status. As an Athens, GA maternity and newborn photographer, I’ve had a front-row seat to these sweet, chaotic, and downright hilarious transitions. If you want to make things a little smoother (and avoid too many 'Can we return the baby?' moments), here are five fun ways to get your child ready.
1. Let Them in on the Action
No one likes to be left out—especially toddlers with strong opinions. Get them involved! Take them shopping for baby gear, let them help decorate the nursery, or ask for their input on baby names (even if you veto 'Tootie McGiggles'). Making them part of the process helps them feel like a VIP in this whole new-sibling situation.
2. Give Them a Sneak Peek
Let’s be real—kids have no idea what they’re in for. Books about siblings, short videos, or even meeting a friend’s newborn can help them get a grip on what’s coming. And if you're wondering what life looks like after those newborn days, check out Surviving the First Year of Parenthood for a real look at what’s ahead! I have seen firsthand how a little prep leads to the sweetest sibling moments during newborn sessions (and fewer 'Why is the baby so loud?' questions).
3. PLAN A SPECIAL SIBLING DAY
Before the baby arrives and everyone starts fighting over who gets to hold the tiny human, carve out a day just for your older kiddo. Whether it’s a trip to their favorite park, a movie night with enough popcorn to feed an army, or a simple outing where they get all your attention, it’s a great way to remind them that they’re still the reigning champion of your heart.
Think of it as their last hurrah before the tiny boss moves in. This special time helps them feel like the star of the show, and you get to sneak in some quality moments with your little one before the family dynamic changes.
4. Give Them a Cool New Title
Being a big sibling is a big deal—so hype them up!
Let them know their new role comes with perks, like getting to teach the baby all sorts of fun things, being the official pacifier retriever, or the go-to lullaby singer.
You can even make it a special title—like "Chief Baby Cuddler" or "Official Baby Whisperer."
Giving them a 'job' helps them feel included and proud, instead of just wondering why this tiny human is getting all the attention. It also helps create a sense of responsibility and importance in the family dynamic.
Let them know they have a special place in the new baby’s life and that their love and guidance will help shape the baby’s world.
This makes the transition easier and gives them something to look forward to as the family grows!
5. Freeze This Chapter in Time with a Family Photography Session
What better way to capture this big transition than with a lifestyle photography session? As a maternity and newborn photographer in Athens, GA, I love documenting the sweet (and sometimes silly) moments between new siblings.
A session before or after the baby arrives makes your child feel extra special—and gives you beautiful memories to look back on when they’re suddenly best buds. Want to see what these newborn moments look like?
Take a peek at my newborn photography gallery to get inspired!
Ready to Capture the Chaos (in the Best Way)?
If you’re expecting and want to document this wild, beautiful season, let’s chat! I offer maternity, newborn, and family photography in the Athens, GA area, including Jefferson, Commerce, and Watkinsville. Let’s capture the real, the raw, and the ridiculously cute moments before life speeds up again.
