What Older Siblings Need to Be Told

The best place to start might be at the beginning of your first child's life. Pulling out her baby book (like this one from The Land of Nod) is a great way to show her how far she's come since she was born and to prep her for how small, sleepy, and relatively unfun her newborn brother or sister will be. Looking through all of those old photos is also a great bonding experience for you and your child. Don't be surprised if they ask to go through it again the next day . . . and the day after that!

Check into a big sibling class at your hospital. Not only will the class give your little one some basic information about babies, but most include a tour of the hospital, so he or she can see where mom will be after the baby is born in advance. Also, use story time as an opportunity to get your tot used to the idea that a new baby is on the way. There are tons of great books about bringing new babies home, but some of our favorites include:

Get the big-sib-to-be involved in choosing a name for the new baby. Forty-one percent of our readers said their families voted on the name or that they take their kids' suggestions into consideration. If your tot's selection is a little too "creative" for the birth certificate, have him or her choose a nickname for the bundle of joy!

Every child needs a little special attention from mom and dad, even if it's breakfast in the morning, a special note in the lunch box, or some extra prebed reading time. Kids tend to misbehave when they don't feel recognized or listened to, so it's important to make an effort to give them some undivided attention every day, before and after the baby arrives.

Make your child feel like a hero: repeatedly tell your child how important his role as an older sibling will be. Talk about his unique qualities and contributions to the family, whether it's his exuberant storytelling, willingness to help out, or great listening skills. Remind your child that the new baby won't yet be able to do any of the cool things he can do, so he'll have to teach him to dance, sing, play, and so on.

Offering the older sibling a gift from the baby is a great way to make the big introduction. Presents to consider include a baby doll, matching t-shirts, or anything that will keep them busy and entertained during those tricky first few weeks (and beyond)! Also consider giving a matched set of gifts, like a stuffed owl from Jellycat for the big sibling with a matching lovey for the new baby.

A friend of mine threw a "big sister party" for her daughter on the day she brought home her infant son. While the party was really just some cupcakes, a couple of balloons, and the grandparents, it turned a day that would have been all about the new baby into a special occasion for her daughter as well. It's a simple way to make your big kid feel special and to reaffirm the importance of his or her new role as a big brother or sister.