How to Welcome a New Baby
How To Series
What’s inside...
In 'How to Welcome a New Baby,' author Jean Reagan presents a delightful guide for siblings and families preparing for a new baby. The book covers the joys and challenges of welcoming a new family member through engaging illustrations and child-friendly language. Topics addressed include preparing the baby’s nursery, understanding the needs of a newborn, and ways older siblings can assist and bond with the baby. 'How to Welcome a New Baby' aims to cultivate a loving and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates the addition of new life to the family. The New York Times bestselling creators of 'How to Babysit a Grandma' and 'How to Babysit a Grandpa' bring this fun and adorable board book that provides tips on making the baby laugh and helping parents manage the new changes. Follow along through the first year of baby’s life and learn from the experts—kids! Available in board book format, it's perfect for new siblings and growing families.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-3
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways we can show love and care to a new baby in our family?
How do you think a new baby might change our daily routine?
What are you most excited about when thinking about having a new sibling?
Can you think of any ways you can help take care of a new baby?
What feelings do you think you might have when the new baby arrives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the arrival of a new sibling. Listen actively and validate their emotions.
Use the illustrations in the book to help your child visualize the scenarios and discuss what they see. This can help make the concept more concrete.
Relate the story to personal family experiences or plans to help the child connect with the narrative more deeply.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and for being open about their feelings, reinforcing positive communication.
Discuss your own experiences and feelings about bringing a new baby into the family to create a mutual sharing atmosphere.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book guides children on how to be considerate and understanding towards the new baby.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize feelings and needs of others, starting with their siblings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through the tasks of helping with the new baby, kids learn what it means to be responsible.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take ownership of their duties, be it at home or school.
Example Lesson: Accepting Change
Explanation: The arrival of a new baby represents a significant change; the book shows how to embrace this new family dynamic.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this learning to adapt positively to changes in their environments.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: The story promotes sharing time, space, and parents’ attention with the new baby.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop generosity and fairness in interacting with peers.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of strengthening family relationships through the shared experience of welcoming a new member.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of family unity and support, vital in building strong familial ties.