Tips for 1-2 year olds expecting a sibling

Introducing a new sibling can be an exciting but confusing time for toddlers. Children aged 1 – 2 may not fully grasp the concept of a new baby joining the family, but there are many thoughtful ways you can help them adjust and feel included in this big change.

Talk about the changes ahead

Children at this age might not fully understand the concept of a new baby or sibling arriving. Nevertheless, it is still important to engage them in conversations about this, and to show them changes that might be coming, such as new items like a bouncer or play mat at home.

Start with stories

Read picture books about new babies or different types of families, sharing images of what this may look like and introducing new words such as sister, brother and new baby.

Share the baby’s name

If you have decided on a name before baby arrives and are comfortable sharing it, this is a great way for the older child to become familiar with this new chapter for your family. 

Do something special together

Do something special for your child when the new baby or sibling arrives. This could be taking them somewhere such as the beach or on a bug hunt in the woods, or spending time with a special family member or friends.

Regression

Regression is common for children when a new sibling or member of the household comes along. This may present itself through sleep routines, toileting, eating or general behaviour.

How to support regression

There are a variety of ways to support this, including showing the benefits of having a bigger family, showing them how they can learn from each other and help each other.  Your child may also want to start being more baby like and want to drink from a bottle or have things done like the baby. You can acknowledge this feeling by saying “I can see you want to play babies right now” and allow them to play this out in a fun way.