A new baby brings excitement, but it can also stir up big feelings for young children. Sharing special books together can be a wonderful way to help your child understand what’s happening and to reassure them of their place in the family.
Here’s a thoughtfully chosen collection of warm, reassuring stories — ideal for preparing your little one for the arrival of a new brother or sister.
1. “There’s a House Inside My Mummy” by Giles Andreae
A gentle, rhyming story that explains pregnancy from a young child’s perspective. Perfect for helping toddlers and preschoolers understand the changes in their family.
2. “The New Small Person” by Lauren Child
Elmore Green isn’t very happy when a ‘new small person’ arrives — a wonderfully honest look at the mixed feelings an older sibling might experience, with Lauren Child’s trademark wit and charm.
3. “Waiting for Baby” and “My New Baby” by Rachel Fuller
Simple, board-book style stories that talk about the arrival of a baby in a way that toddlers can easily understand. Bright, friendly illustrations support the comforting text.
4. “Za-za’s Baby Brother” by Lucy Cousins
Za-za the zebra feels a little left out when a new baby brother arrives. A sweet, recognisable story for toddlers adjusting to life with a sibling.
5. “Hello in There!: A Big Sister’s Book of Waiting” by Jo Witek
A beautifully illustrated, interactive book that helps an older sibling feel connected to the baby before it is born.
6. “I’m a Big Sister” and “I’m a Big Brother” by Joanna Cole
Warm, reassuring books that celebrate the joys of becoming a big brother or sister, while acknowledging the adjustments involved.
7. “Maple” by Lori Nichols
A gentle, beautifully illustrated story about a little girl who shares her love of trees — and later her love — with her new baby sister.
8. “Alfie and Annie Rose” series by Shirley Hughes
In these much-loved classics, Alfie’s everyday adventures include the natural ups and downs of life with a younger sister. Timeless, warm and relatable.
9. “You Were the First” by Patricia MacLachlan
A tender reminder to firstborn children that they will always have a special place, even as the family grows. Lovely for creating feelings of security.
10. “Topsy and Tim: The New Baby” by Jean and Gareth Adamson
A friendly, straightforward look at the arrival of a baby, perfect for toddlers and young children.
11. “The Berenstain Bears’ New Baby” by Stan and Jan Berenstain
This classic story shows Small Bear’s experience of growing into a new bed — and a new role as big brother — in a gentle, family-centred way.
12. “Big Brother Peter” (Peter Rabbit series) and “Big Sister Dora” (Dora the Explorer series)
Character-based books that toddlers already love, helping them relate to the idea of becoming a big sibling in a familiar, comforting way.
13. “What Baby Needs” by William and Martha Sears
Written by parenting experts, this book focuses on helping slightly older children understand what newborn babies need, with a strong, loving tone.
14. “Pecan Pie Baby” by Jacqueline Woodson
This sensitive story follows Gia, who feels unsure about the arrival of her baby sibling. A heartfelt book that acknowledges that excitement and worry can coexist.
15. “Little Miss, Big Sis” by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Told with playful rhymes and bright illustrations, this book captures the highs (and occasional lows) of becoming a big sister with humour and warmth.
If you’re looking for more guidance on how to prepare your older child for a new sibling, you might also find our list of Helpful Books for Parents useful.