This post is sponsored by Johnson County Library.
Becoming a sibling is a major milestone in a young child’s life, and one that can come with a mix of emotions. Reading together is a powerful way to help prepare kids for the impending arrival and foster positive feelings about their upcoming role. These books, from Johnson County Library, can help your little one feel seen, understood and ready to step into their new role with confidence and love.
Best Books for Soon to Be Siblings
Books for Big Brothers
Big Brothers Are the Best by Fran Manushkin
Simple text and cheerful illustrations make this a sweet introduction for boys about what it means to become a big brother.
I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole
A reassuring book that speaks directly to big brothers, celebrating their new role and emphasizing how special they are.
It’s Big Brother Time! by Nandini Ahuja
This thoughtful story explores how a big brother has a big role in introducing the new baby to all the ways of the world.
The New Baby by Mercer Mayer
Little Critter shares his experience of welcoming a new baby sibling, offering both the good and the frustrating parts in a relatable way.
What Brothers Do Best by Laura Numeroff
Celebrating all the fun and helpful things brothers can do, this book helps big brothers feel proud of their role.
Books for Big Sisters
Big Sisters Are the Best by Fran Manushkin
An adorable and empowering story showing that big sisters can help and care for the new baby, even while still having fun.
How to Be a Baby…by Me, the Big Sister by Sally Lloyd-Jones
This witty book (narrated by a bossy but loving older sibling) breaks down everything a baby needs to know, with lots of laughs along the way.
I’m a Big Sister by Joanna Cole
The sister version of Cole’s classic book reassures girls that being a big sister is a special and exciting role.
Little Big Girl by Claire Keene
This book tells the story of what it means to become the big sister and love a new baby with all your heart.
What Sisters Do Best by Laura Numeroff
With whimsical illustrations and simple words, this book celebrates all the wonderful things sisters can do, especially when there’s a baby around.
Books for Either
Babies Don’t Eat Pizza by Dianne Danzig
More of a toddler friendly manual than a storybook, this book gets down to the nitty-gritty on how to be a good sibling and take care of the new baby.
The Berenstain Bears’ New Baby by Stan Berenstain
Sister Bear’s arrival is told from Brother Bear’s perspective, making this an excellent read for older siblings to understand how their family may change.
Maple by Lori Nichols
Maple is a tree loving girl who learns to welcome a baby sister. Great for nature lovers, this story shows the gentle growth of sibling bonds.
The New Small Person by Lauren Child
Told in a clever voice, this book explores sibling rivalry and the journey toward acceptance and love for a new sibling.
On Mother’s Lap by Ann Herbert Scott
A warm and cozy story that reassures young children there is always enough room on a mother’s lap, and in her heart, for more than one child.
Peter’s Chair by Ezra Jack Keats
This classic story addresses sibling jealousy and adjustment with honesty and charm as Peter learns to share his things with the new baby.
Waiting for Baby by Rachel Fuller
Short, simple and perfect for toddlers. This board book shows a young child helping prepare for the baby and asking questions.
Welcoming a new baby can be both exciting and confusing for small children. These books offer a chance for kids to express their feelings, ask questions and start to imagine themselves in their new role.
