"When adding a new baby to your family, so much of the focus is on the smallest family member, but older siblings are also a huge part of the equation. It’s important to make those older kiddos and sudden big sister/big brother feel some extra love during this new family transition. One way many families share the love with the older sibling is by a gift exchange: a gift from the new baby to their big sibling, and a gift from the big sibling to the new baby.
This gift exchange is a fun way to show immediate love between siblings. As the mom of a toddler with a new baby on the way, I’ve been brainstorming the most meaningful gifts to give between the new siblings, but also want to make sure it’s something my older child will be excited about. At 21 months, my daughter truly has no idea what’s about to happen to her life and her status as an only child, and I hope to make it as smooth as possible. A little gift can’t hurt.
One way many families share the love with the older sibling is by a gift exchange: a gift from the new baby to their big sibling, and a gift from the big sibling to the new baby.
In an effort to get this gift just right, I’ve asked fellow moms of two or more what gifts went over well with their kids. Personally, I’m torn between adorable matching bunnies that I think they’ll both love for years to come and a set of Sesame Street characters because my daughter has a sudden obsession with Elmo (meanwhile I had to give away a Tickle Me Elmo just a few months ago because it freaked her out so much).
After gathering advice, it’s clear that every family and every child will be different, but similar themes emerged through the recommendations. For those of you shopping for a sibling gift exchange, here are some of the most popular themes and items to check out.
Source: @shapinup
Matching / Themed Items for Big & Little Ones
There are lots of adorable options to choose from that are the same item or theme, just in a big kid and a baby version. These can be meaningful gifts that hopefully both children will hang onto for years to come.
Your Kid’s Current Obsession
A safe bet is simply getting a toy your kid is obsessed with, whether that’s Sesame Street, Daniel Tiger, trucks, etc. These gifts may not all stand the test of time, but it’s a safe choice that will make your child happy in the moment.
Baby Dolls and Accessories
With a new sibling on the way, older kids may want to mimic their parents and help take care of the baby. Give them their own baby to care for, along with some accessories so they can care for the doll while you care for the real baby.
Source: @mrscofieldandco
Clothing
There’s nothing cuter than siblings dressed as twins. And since most kids will become pretty opinionated early on, you should take advantage of this time to match them while you can. Big-and-little sibling gear is a fun way to commemorate the family change.
available in a variety of styles and colors
available in additional colors and customizations, sizes baby to 10 year old
available in additional colors and customizations, sizes baby to 10 year old
Books
Books about siblings can help show your older child what a gift it is to get a younger sibling (even if it doesn’t always feel that way). Start reading these books before the baby arrives, or add a new one to the collection when bringing home the new baby.
Read More: Expecting Your Second Baby? These Books Can Ease the Transition for Your Older Child