Welcoming a new baby into the family is a momentous occasion, but can be tricky for kids welcoming their first sibling. These picture books about welcoming a new sibling will help parents start discussions with their kids about the new baby. I love that they’re all wondrous, celebratory stories including a few about welcoming a new sibling by adoption. I hope you’ll find the right pick for your family!
Picture Books About Welcoming a New Sibling
Here are the best children’s books about welcoming a new sibling:
Maple
Published: February 20, 2014
When Maple is tiny, her parents plant a maple tree in her honor. She and her tree grow up together, and even though a tree doesn’t always make an ideal playmate, it doesn’t mind when Maple is in the mood to be loud—which is often. Then Maple becomes a big sister, and finds that babies have their loud days, too. Fortunately, Maple and her beloved tree know just what the baby needs.
Another Brother
Published: January 31, 2012
Life for Davy was glorious as long as he had his mother and father to himself. But then he got a brother, Petey. When Davy sang, Petey cried. When Davy created a masterpiece, Petey spat up on it.
And then he got another brother, Mike! And another, Stu! And another, Gil! Until he had TWELVE LITTLE BROTHERS! And that was only the beginning!
Pecan Pie Baby
Published: October 28, 2010
Gia is tired of hearing about the new baby. It hasn’t even been born yet, but everyone, even her friends, seem fixated on it. Gia thinks things are fine just the way they are! And she’s worried: if the baby’s such a big deal now, what’s going to happen to Gia’s nice, cozy life with Mama once it’s born?
Beloved author Jacqueline Woodson and Sophie Blackall have created a heartwarming story for kids adjusting to the idea of a new family member. Young readers will be reassured by Gia’s eventual understanding that the baby won’t ruin the special bond she has with her mom, and might even be a sweet addition to the family.
New Adventures: My New Sibling
Published: May 17, 2018
This first experiences series uncovers the worries and fears associated with big life changes that young children might experience and provides reassurance by explaining how they might feel and shows ways that children can learn to cope with these feelings.
The sensitively written story provides guidance not only for children, but also for adults who want to help their child through these unsettling times in their lives.
Children can read the books on their own or can discuss the books with an adult. Notes for teachers and parents at the back of the books provide related advice and information to help them guide and support children.
My Brother the Duck
Published: April 21, 2020
Is Stella’s new baby brother a duck?
All the evidence seems to be pointing in that direction, but Stella knows that scientists can’t just wing it. Further research is definitely required.
This sweet and silly book is just ducky for new siblings, fledgling scientists and anyone who loves a good laugh.
• Read-aloud books for children and siblings
• New baby gift for siblings
• Pat Zietlow Miller has published numerous children’s books, including the critically acclaimed Be Kind.
Little Miss Big Sis
Published: June 16, 2015
The big news is this: Little Miss becomes a big sis! Little Miss learns the wonders of becoming a big sister as she and her family celebrate the momentous arrival of a new baby.
From Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Peter H. Reynolds, the creators of Plant a Kiss, comes a charming story about Little Miss, who is about to become a big sis.
A perfect gift for any child becoming a big brother or sister and any expecting families!
Famously Phoebe
Published: October 3, 2017
Phoebe was the shining star of her family. Then someone came along to take her place.
For as long as Phoebe can remember, she’s known the clickety click click of a photographer snapping her picture. Thanks to the camera-carrying “paparazzi” (aka Mom and Dad), she’s always been the star of the show . . . until the day a tiny newcomer arrives on set.
Will Phoebe learn to share the spotlight and assume the role she was born to play: big sister? This sweet tale of sibling rivalry resolved is perfect for every older brother and sister.
Just Right Family: An Adoption Story
Published: March 1, 2018
Meili, who is six years old and adopted from China, learns that her parents are going to adopt a baby from Haiti. She’s not happy. Why do they need a new baby? Their family is just right as it is. As Meili learns more about her new sibling and the importance of being a big sister, will she realize that a new addition can be just right for their family too?
I Used to Be Famous
Published: April 1, 2019
Kiely’s been famous her entire life, but when a baby sister appears on the scene, she feels like a has-been. Now Kiely has to figure out how to gain back the attention of her adoring fans (her family), even if it means sharing the spotlight.
Lola Reads to Leo
Published: February 1, 2012
Join Lola as she learns what it means to be a big sister, in the third installment in the loveable Lola series. We all know how much Lola loves books, so it is no surprise that she can’t wait to share her love of reading with her new baby brother, Leo. Lola gets ready for little Leo’s arrival by reading books about brothers and sisters and picking out the perfect stories that she just knows her little brother will love. When the baby is finally here, Lola takes on the role of big sister—she helps her mommy and daddy around the house and tells Leo stories to cheer him up when he cries. Simple text and bright and charming illustrations celebrate family, reading, and what it means to be a big sister.
Babies Don’t Eat Pizza
Published: January 22, 2009
With kid-friendly humor and honesty, BABIES DON’T EAT PIZZA covers waiting for baby and life with baby from birth through toddlerhood. Multicultural families; how babies are born, grow and behave; adoption, premature and special needs babies; breast and bottle feeding, twins, helping and playing with babies, older children’s feelings, and a parents’ tips page are included. Vetted by teachers, nurse educators, physicians, librarians, and parents, the book speaks to the real questions, perceptions and concerns that the author has heard from over 2,500 children about their baby siblings.
You’re a Big Sister
Published: March 7, 2017
Our family is growing in a sweet little way.
You’re a big sister Congrats and hooray!
A new little one brings lots of changes―some unexpected, some confusing, some exciting ―and all a wonderful adventure! An endearing story,You’re a Big Sister celebrates all the best parts of a growing family. With adorable illustrations and heartwarming charm, You’re a Big Sister overflows with anticipation and joy ―the perfect congratulations for a big brother!
Peter’s Chair
Published: August 1, 1998
Peter, the hero of many of Ezra Jack Keats’ award-winning books, has a new baby sister. When she arrives, his parents paint his old baby furniture pink for the new baby. There’s only one thing they haven’t painted yet, though: his little blue chair. He’ll do whatever it takes to save it—even run away! This is a gentle and reassuring story about sibling rivalry and a perfect gift for any family expecting a new baby.
Will It Be a Baby Brother?
Published: September 1, 2010
A baby is on the way. Edward’s mom is having a baby and everyone is excited. There is so much to do and so many things to think about. What will the baby’s name be? What will the baby wear? Most important of all—will it be a boy or a girl? Edward wants a baby brother. He waits and wonders and gets ready to fill the crib with a dump truck, wooden train, and other toys. Then the big day comes. Will Edward’s mom come home with his brother or his sister in this Society of School Librarians International Honor Book?
We Are Brothers, We Are Friends
Published: February 28, 2017
Being a big brother is a BIG job.
There’s lots to show your little brother . . .
Trains . . .
Planes . . .
How to be a dinosaur.
There are games to play and adventures to be had. And if trouble comes, it’s big brother to the rescue because there’s no better friend than a brother.
Woolfie the Bunny
Published: February 17, 2015
The Bunny family has adopted a wolf son, and daughter Dot is the only one who realizes Wolfie can–and might–eat them all up! Dot tries to get through to her parents, but they are too smitten to listen. A new brother takes getting used to, and when (in a twist of fate) it’s Wolfie who’s threatened, can Dot save the day?
It’s Big Brother Time
Published: March 23, 2021
Told through the eyes of a big brother, this charming hardcover picture book empowers older siblings by showing them that they have very important roles to play in introducing their family’s new baby to the world.
From cleaning up messes to learning to share, big brother will teach the new baby everything. After all, big brother was a baby once, too—and he was really good at it.
The New Small Person
Elmore Green starts life as an only child, as many children do. He has a room to himself, where he can line up his precious things and nobody will move them one inch. But one day everything changes. When the new small person comes along, it seems that everybody might like it a bit morethan they like Elmore Green. And when the small person knocks over Elmore’s things and even licks his jelly-bean collection, Elmore’s parents say that he can’t be angry because the small person is only small. Elmore wants the small person to go back to wherever it came from. Then, one night, everything changes. . . . In her signature visual style, Lauren Child gets to the heart of a child’s evolving emotions about becoming a big brother or sister.
Big Sisters Are the Best
Published: February 1, 2012
Becoming a big sister is an exciting time full of smiles, smells, hugs, and kisses. This is the perfect book for transitioning a toddler into siblinghood. It helps young ones prepare for a new baby and also focuses on all of the things a big sister can do that a baby can’t do.
My New Baby
Published: April 1, 2009
There is so much to find out when a baby is born! What does it smell like, and when will it walk? When does it sleep, and what does it like to eat? A new addition to any family is exciting, but the experience can alsobe worrying and confusing for siblings. Coping with the new situations and emotions that arise can be very challenging. This series of four board books deals with the anticipation of waiting for the new baby, the excitement of the arrival itself, and the beginnings of the special relationship that develops between siblings. The simple conversational text and lively illustrations are carefully designed to encourage further dialogue between reader and child.
Ninja Baby
Published: November 3, 2015
From the day she was born, Nina was a ninja baby. She obliterated her applesauce. She concealed herself at bath time. And she was training herself in advanced infiltration (of movie night). Nina wants to do everything by herself, until the day her parents bring home a Kung Fu Master (a baby brother). Now with a sibling, Nina will face the one thing she cannot do alone: be part of a family. With verve and humor, David Zeltser and Diane Goode tell the story of an unusually gifted child, and the family that is more than a match for her.
Big Brother Daniel
Published: January 6, 2015
Daniel Tiger is so happy: He’s just gotten a new baby sister! Baby Margaret is very little, and she needs lots of care from Mom and Dad. But not to worry, big brother Daniel is here to help!
The New Baby
Decsember 15, 2019
Ana & Andrew are expecting a sibling! The family is very excited. Mama’s family arrives from Trinidad, and everyone helps to get ready. When the baby arrives, Ana & Andrew learn from Granny that in African American culture, a baby’s name often tells an important story. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Calico Kid is an imprint of Magic Wagon, a division of ABDO.
You Were the First
Published: September 24, 2013
You will always be the first…
A touching tribute to baby’s early milestones — those unforgettable moments that will always be cherished. From first smiles to first cuddles and even to that first kiss, here’s a loving ode to every child’s — and parent’s — momentous “firsts.”
Hello in There!
Published: May 7, 2013
A sister-to-be is so eager to step into her role that she’s starting early! She sticks close to her mama so she can sing songs to her sibling-to-be (loudly, of course) and explain all the great things waiting in the outside world (cupcakes! strawberries! swimming!).
With quaint line drawings, lovely patterns, and a variety of playful flaps showing the new baby blissfully tucked away in its mama’s belly, this interactive picture book is a joyful and celebratory ode to a growing family and the perfect gift for any big-sibling-to-be.
I’m a Big Sister
Published: January 5, 2010
“Someone new is at our house,” begins this loving, reassuring celebration of sisterhood from trusted author Joanna Cole.
Told through the eyes of a new older sister, this simple story lays out all the good things about being an older sibling, and just how exciting welcoming a new member to the family can be.
New Baby!
Published: November 17, 2020
In New Baby! toddlers expecting a new addition to the family don’t know exactly what will happen, and it can be confusing and emotionally challenging. Through the introduction of the new sibling, to the incorporation of it into daily life, toddlers will be reassured that while things will be different, mom and dad still love them just the same and have enough love for the new baby, too. Includes information for parents and caregivers about reassuring a toddler that they will not be forgotten when they have a new sibling.
There’s Going to Be a Baby
Published: September 14, 2010
When is the new baby coming? What will we call it? What will he do? We don’t really need a baby, do we? With sensitivity and wit, John Burningham follows the swirl of questions in the mind of a young child anticipating a baby sibling with excitement, curiosity, and just a bit of trepidation. In perfect tandem, Helen Oxenbury captures the child’s loving interactions with his mother — along with the fanciful future scenarios he imagines for the new family member he has yet to meet. Combining a warm, timeless story with illustrations both freshly enchanting and wonderfully nostalgic, this gorgeous book has all the hallmarks of a classic.
Mama’s Belly
Published: April 17, 2018
As a curious little girl awaits the arrival of her baby sister, she asks Mama many questions: “Will she have freckles?” “Will I have to share my blanket?” She helps Mama and Dad prepare to meet her little sister, singing her songs and knitting her a new blanket. But the most important part of getting ready is taking care of Mama. When Mama can’t see her toes, she counts to make sure there’s still ten. When Mama’s tired, she draws her a picture and gives her hugs. An honest and gentle exploration of the excitement and anxiety kids feel when welcoming a new family member, Mama’s Belly is ultimately a celebration of motherly (and daughterly) love and a soothing story for older siblings that even with the spotlight on a new baby, there is always enough love for everyone.
The Baby Tree
Published: May 1, 2014
Cleverly revealing the basics of reproduction in an age-appropriate way, award-winning Sophie Blackall has created a beautiful picture book full of playful details to amuse and engage readers.
Sooner or later, every child will ask, Where do babies come from? Answering this question has never been this easy or entertaining! Join a curious little boy who asks everyone from his babysitter to the mailman, getting all sorts of funny answers along the way, before his parents gently set him straight.
A Baby Sister for Frances
Published: October 4, 2011
With a new baby sister in the house, Frances is feeling quite forgotten. Mother doesn’t have time to iron Frances’s favorite dress, her parents don’t appreciate her new song, and there are no raisins for her oatmeal. So Frances decides to run away, and she does—but not too far. Full of warmth and family love, this new edition of Russell and Lillian Hoban’s beloved classic is perfect for beginning readers.
The Boss Baby
Published: August 31, 2010
The boss baby is used to getting his way—drinks made to order 24/7, a private jet, and meetings around the clock. But when his demands aren’t getting proper responses, he has to go to new lengths to achieve the attention he deserves.
Marla Frazee brings her signature wit and humor—along with adorable illustrations—to a book that explores the effect of one family’s very unusual new arrival.
The Baby is Here
Published: January 6, 2015
Daniel Tiger is getting a little sister, and he can’t wait to meet her. He’s looking for a special way to help welcome the new baby—and he finds the perfect present to give to his new sibling in a box of his old baby things!
You’re Getting a Baby Brother!
Published: February 7, 2012
Everyone is delighted that a baby brother is joining the family—but older siblings may be slightly unsure. Fortunately for them, this rhyming board book addresses what to expect: “You’ll have to take turns. Does he know how to play? No, he does not. He just gets in the way.” The text, accompanied by irresistible art from renowned illustrator Sam Williams, also explains how older kids can be role models to their new little brother: “He needs you to protect him. Teach him all that you know. Show him patience and love, he’s just starting to grow.” At the back of the book, there’s even designated space for older siblings to write about their new baby brother.
I Am a Big Sister
Published: January 27, 2015
Share the joys of becoming a big sister!With the arrival of a new baby comes many transitions, and big sisters may need a little extra tender loving care to adjust to a new family situation. This sweet story with adorable toddler illustrations by Caroline Jayne Church is just right to share with and prepare an older sister getting ready for an expanding family.
I’m Going to Be Your Big Sister
Published: April 3, 2019
A new big sister is excited for all the fun adventures that she and her younger sibling will experience together. As her imagination reveals the wild, enjoyable moments they will share, she also reflects on the positive influences she will have on her new sibling. This short rhyming story, along with its creative illustrations, offers young readers a fun, imaginative journey into the world of being a big sister.
Bella’s New Baby
Published: January 12, 2016
A Little Golden Book about a happy family milestone: a new baby!
When Bella hears she’s going to be a big sister, she pictures all the fun she’ll have with a sweet baby girl. But the new baby turns out to be a boy! Bella is disappointed at first—until she holds him for the first time and imagines how wonderful life will be with a baby brother.
Once Upon a Baby Brother
Published: June 8, 2010
Lizzie loves to make up stories and tell them to anyone and everyone, even though now that her annoying baby brother, Marvin, has joined the family, no one has time to listen. She’s so full of ideas, it seems like nothing can stop her. And then one day, something does. What’s a star writer to do?
Little Frog’s Tadpole Trouble
Published: January 7, 2014
Little Frog lives with his mommy and daddy. It’s just the three of them, and Little Frog likes it that way. But one day, his parents tell him he is going to be a big brother—to NINE tadpoles!
Little Frog is not impressed with his baby siblings. They can’t jump. They can’t play drums. They can’t do anything! All they do is keep Mommy and Daddy busy—too busy for Little Frog.
My Sister is an Alien!
Published: August 24, 2010
Alfie is crazy about space. His favourite things are: 1. aliens, 2. rockets, 3. the moon – in that exact order. He doesn’t really think much about anything else, until his new baby sister comes along. Then he notices that she looks a bit funny, she talks funny and sometimes she smells funny and he realizes . . . she MUST BE AN ALIEN! Alfie knows he needs to be brave and take her back to the moon where she belongs – after all, she often cries for home – and that’s when the adventure really starts. . . A positive, funny and charming take on the joys of a new sibling with gorgeous etched illustrations from a rising picture book star.
There they are: 40 of the best picture books about welcoming a new sibling. Which ones have you read? What did I miss?
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