New Baby Coming, New Baby Here
What’s inside...
When Alisa's parents bring home her baby sister, Claire, from the hospital early, Alisa has no idea what to expect. At first, she is enamored by her adorable new sister, but then reality sets in, and things get a lot harder than she anticipated. Alisa must learn to share her toys, her attention, and her parents' love. However, as Claire grows, Alisa learns that all of the hard work, life change, and sacrifice are worth the joys of being a big sister. Being a big sister is hard work! When Alisa's new baby sister, Claire, is born, she has no idea what to expect. Will Claire be nice? Will Alisa have to give away all of her toys? Will Mommy and Daddy stop loving Alisa because baby Claire is here? New Baby Coming, New Baby Here by Sheryl Smiley-Oliphant is a delightfully fun family story of what to expect when your parents bring home a new baby. New Baby Coming, New Baby Here is the perfect way to help your child understand that when your family grows, so does the amount of love in your home.
Age
0-7
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the older sibling felt when the new baby arrived?
What are some ways the family in the book shows love to both the new baby and the older sibling?
Can you think of any special responsibilities or roles an older sibling might have?
What are some fun activities you think the siblings could do together as the new baby grows?
How would you help welcome a new baby into our family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, discuss any experiences your child has had with new siblings or new babies in the family.
While reading, point out expressions on the characters’ faces and ask your child how they think the character is feeling.
Encourage your child to talk about their own feelings and thoughts by relating personal experiences to those depicted in the book.
After reading, brainstorm with your child about activities they could do if they had a new sibling.
Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the values of empathy, sharing, and patience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The story illustrates how the arrival of a new sibling brings changes to a family dynamic, teaching children to adapt positively.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding of change to adapt to new environments such as starting a new school or moving to a new home.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Sharing
Explanation: As the older sibling learns to share their parents’ attention and toys with the new baby, the book highlights the importance of empathy and sharing.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children learn to consider others' feelings and share resources with classmates and friends.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The book depicts the family spending time together and strengthening their bond after the new baby's arrival.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to spend quality time with family members, understanding the value of strong family relationships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The older sibling learns to take on small responsibilities to help care for the new baby, promoting the value of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to take initiative in helping around the house or being responsible for personal belongings.