Having Another Baby: How to Prepare Your Toddler for a New Baby

Have you just found out you’re pregnant with baby number two and are wondering how on earth you’ll cope? You’re not alone! Almost every parent feels a mix of excitement and anxiety when preparing for another baby.

As a holistic sleep consultant and mum of two, I know how big this transition can feel — but with a little preparation, you can help prepare your toddler (as well as yourself!) for a new baby and adjust to the transition smoothly.

Preparing Your Toddler for a New Baby

If your child is old enough, helping them prepare for their new sibling can make a huge difference. When my daughter Ivy was 18 months old and I was pregnant with George, we borrowed a “new baby” bag from nursery — complete with a baby doll, bottle, nappies and a book about becoming a big sister.

Children learn best through play and role-play. Pretend games allow them to explore feelings, ask questions and understand what having a baby brother or sister might be like. When they ask questions, try to answer honestly but gently, always offering reassurance about your love and connection.

💡 Top tip: If your nursery doesn’t offer a resource like this, you can easily make your own “new baby play kit” at home.

Mama's Belly

Helping Your Toddler Bond With Your Bump

If your child shows interest, let them touch, sing to, or talk to your bump. Sharing photos or books about siblings can help them visualise what’s coming.

If they’re old enough, you could also talk about different feelings they might have when their new sibling arrives — excitement, jealousy, love, frustration. Let them know that all feelings are valid. This emotional awareness helps prevent confusion or guilt later.

Introducing Your Toddler to the New Baby

The first meeting is a big moment. Some children are thrilled; others feel unsure or even upset. Whatever their reaction, it’s important to validate their emotions and reassure them that your love hasn’t changed.

If possible, greet your toddler for the first time after birth without the baby in your arms. This helps them feel seen and valued.

When Ivy met George for the first time, she was… less than thrilled! (“When is he going back?” were her exact words.) What really helped was giving her a small “gift from the baby” — a pretend shopping basket for her toy kitchen. It gave her a positive association and made her feel included.

Encouraging Sibling Bonding

Involve your toddler in simple, positive ways:

• Let them help “introduce” the baby to your home.

• Encourage them to sing, read, or talk to the baby.

• Model gentle touch and how to help safely.

Remember, it’s normal if your firstborn says things like “I don’t like the baby” or starts having more tantrums. This behaviour often reflects adjustment, not rejection.

When your toddler wants attention while you’re feeding the baby, avoid saying “I can’t right now.” Instead, try:

“I’d love to play! Can you get the game ready while I finish feeding the baby?”

Having a special toy box that only appears during feeding time can also help — it keeps your toddler occupied and helps reduce tension.

Go at your child’s pace. Some siblings bond instantly; others take months. Both are perfectly normal.

Managing Visitors and Family Support

Ask visitors to greet your firstborn first and spend a few minutes with them before focusing on the baby. It helps your older child feel acknowledged during a big transition.

In the early weeks, remember this: it’s about survival, not perfection. Don’t worry about extra screen time or too many snacks. Be gentle with yourself and focus on rest, recovery, and connection.

When I had George, I was lucky to have support from my stepmum and husband for several weeks. If you can, accept all offers of help — meals, holding the baby, or just company. Many parents feel they “should” manage alone, but support is what helps everyone thrive.

Sleep and Routines With Two Children

In the early days, focus on feeding and recovery, not strict routines. Newborns have unpredictable sleep patterns, but try to keep your toddler’s routines as consistent as possible. Familiarity helps them feel secure.

If you’d like guidance on supporting both your baby’s and toddler’s sleep, my 0–5 month Sleep Foundations Course and Toddler Sleep Course cover everything from gentle sleep shaping to managing night wakings with two little ones.

Final Thoughts

Adding a second baby to your family is a huge emotional and practical shift — but also a beautiful opportunity to grow together. With preparation, reassurance, and support, your firstborn can adjust with confidence and love.

 Need Support Preparing for Baby Number Two?

If you’re expecting your second baby and feeling unsure how to manage sleep, routines, and emotional transitions, I can help.👉 Book a free discovery call or explore my personalised sleep support packages designed for families welcoming a new sibling.