Books for Big Brothers and Big Sisters

Kristy Pepping:  When a new sibling enters the family, it can be scary for a child. Will they be replaced? Will they need to share their toys? Will they still get attention? Here is a simple book by Mercer Mayer that kids can understand at their level on new siblings.

Dawn R:  This book in Audrey Penn's Kissing Hand series is about Chester raccoon seeing his baby brother receive a kissing hand. Chester is so sad since he thinks that his mom doesn't love him anymore since she gave away her kissing hand. His mom explains to Chester in her special way that he is still very much loved. I bought this book for my son when we knew we were having another baby to let him know we will love them both!

Jennie Utsinger:  This book by Lauren Child does a fantastic job of depicting an older brother adjusting to life with a new baby brother. What really resonated with my oldest (as he had a similarly long adjustment period) is that the child doesn't fully begin to appreciate the benefits of having a brother until his younger brother is old enough to really play with him. The illustrations are lovely as well.

Kelly R:  This sweet and whimsical story from Jo Witek focuses on a child's joyful anticipation of her sibling's arrival, illustrating the girl's interactions with the unborn baby as he develops. The pages offer lift-the flap glimpses into baby's growth, helping young kids understand and envision what is happening unseen inside mom's growing belly.

Gina I.:  Kids take a journey with Rudy the dog as his family brings home a new baby in this book by Roxanna Elden. A sweet story with beautiful illustrations, Rudy's New Human helps kids tackle the emotions they feel when a baby brother/sister comes home.

Vanessa M.:  You Were the First by Patricia MacLachlan highlights all the firsts the first-born child experiences. From first cries to first steps, including "You were the first to teach us how to be parents". The book shows the first child getting bigger and bigger, and closes with the hint of a new baby arriving and an assurance that no matter what, your child will always be the first.

Vanessa M.:  Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood has a special way of connecting with little ones. The Baby Is Here is based on the same-titled TV episode where Daniel Tiger becomes a big brother. This book goes through a realistic journey of what becoming an older sibling is like, from helping get the nursery ready to staying with grandparents while Mom and Dad are at the hospital. Of course, the highlight is Daniel Tiger meeting his baby sister for the first time!

Vanessa M.:  Becoming a big brother is an exciting (and sometimes scary) transition, and this book helps to highlight all the great things big brothers can do! Big Brothers Are the Best by Fran Manushkin is ideal for toddlers and young preschoolers.

Kelly R:  This book from Amy Krouse Rosenthal describes the nice (and not so nice) things to expect when a new baby arrives, the important role that older siblings play, and the new friendship that will blossom as baby grows.

Kelly R:  This sweet story with adorable illustrations from Caroline Jayne Church helps children understand their new role in the expanding family in a positive way. It describes the ways that big brothers can help, from singing lullabies to helping with diapers. A companion book for big sisters is available, too.

Kelly R:  This simple book is great for toddlers adjusting to the idea of a new baby. It presents simple text to spark conversations about what new babies are like and what to expect, along with colorful illustrations of family life.

Kelly R:  I'm a Big Sister by Joanna Cole (and the companion book I'm a Big Brother) prepare kids for their new role by describing all of the good things that come with being the older sibling. It gently describes how things will change with the new baby, and reinforces the big sibling's special role in the family.

Kelly R:  This journal encourages kids to reflect on their new sibling, from pregnancy through the first year. Amy Krouse Rothenthal includes prompts and stickers which will get the big brother or sister excited for their new role. A fun twist on the traditional baby book that you'll love looking back on later.