I Am a Big Brother
Caroline Jayne Church Series
What’s inside...
The book captures the experiences of young children as they welcome new siblings into their family. It explores the mixed feelings of excitement, apprehension, and love that come with the arrival of a baby sibling, and how both a young boy and a big sister learn to adapt and care for their new family members. The story is complemented by adorable toddler illustrations by Caroline Jayne Church, making it a sweet and relatable read for children adjusting to a new family situation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Big Brother
Baby
Mother
Discussion points
How do you think the big brother feels about having a new baby in the house?
What are some ways the big brother can help his parents with the baby?
If you were the big brother, what would you do to make the baby feel loved?
What do you think is the best part about being a big brother?
How do you think the family dynamics change when a new baby arrives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child what they think it means to be a big brother or big sister.
While reading, point out the emotions and actions of the big brother in the illustrations to help your child understand his feelings.
Encourage your child to talk about their own experiences or feelings if they have younger siblings or relatives.
After reading, discuss with your child how they could help out if there's a younger sibling or a baby in your family or in friends’ families.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story shows the older brother helping with his new sibling, like fetching diapers and soothing the baby.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take on small responsibilities at home, helping parents with simple tasks.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Throughout the book, the big brother learns to recognize and respond to the baby’s needs.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice understanding and reacting to the emotions of others around them, fostering compassion.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The older sibling adjusts to having a new member in the family and shares his space and parents’ attention.
Real-World Application: This can help children learn to adapt to changes in their own family or school environments.
Example Lesson: Pride
Explanation: The book highlights the pride the big brother feels when he is able to help care for the baby.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to feel proud of their achievements and contributions within their family.
Example Lesson: Inclusivity
Explanation: The story portrays the older brother including the baby in his playtime.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to include others in their activities, promoting inclusive play.