Using Storytelling to Help Older Kids Understand Birth and Babies

When we tell stories to our kids, it’s like we’re inviting them into a little world where they can learn, feel, and explore at their own pace. Stories about new siblings, birth, and babies can be an incredible way to open up that world, especially when a child is about to become a big brother or sister. Sometimes, there are things they don’t know how to ask about or worries they can’t quite put into words. That’s where storytelling can work its magic, giving them a way to see, feel, and understand what’s happening in a gentle, comforting way.

When kids listen to stories about a new baby coming, it can help them connect to their own experiences in a safe, relatable space. Through a story, they can see characters facing similar feelings and situations, which can be a relief for kids who might not feel comfortable sharing their own insecurities or anxieties. The beauty of these stories is that they offer a way for kids to say, “Hey, that’s me too,” or even, “I feel the same way,” without the pressure of putting it all into their own words.

Some of the best sibling stories handle both the excitement and the uncertainty that come with a new baby. They might show an older sibling feeling jealous when Mom and Dad are busy or unsure of what to do around their tiny new sibling, but ultimately finding their place and realizing that this new little one doesn’t take anything away from them. Instead, these stories help them see that they’re gaining something too—a new relationship, a new way of being part of the family.

When we read these stories with our kids, it’s an invitation for them to ask questions and share their thoughts. They might ask what it was like when they were born or how their new baby sibling will change as they grow. Sometimes, we don’t have the “perfect” answer, but the conversation itself shows them that we’re open to listening. It reminds them that they don’t have to have all the answers, and neither do we, but that we’re here, navigating this journey together.

Tips for Storytelling with Kids

• Use Open-Ended Questions: Ask questions like, “How do you think the big brother feels?” or “What do you think will happen next?” This can encourage your child to express their feelings or to relate the story to their own experience.

  
  

• Create Personalized Stories: Try making up stories with your child as the main character, navigating the ups and downs of having a new sibling. This can give them a sense of importance and comfort in their new role.

  
  

• Focus on Positive Imagery and Roles: Highlight parts of the story where the older sibling feels proud or helpful, encouraging your child to imagine themselves in a nurturing, caring role.

  
  

The real magic happens when they start to see themselves in the story. They might feel inspired to take on a nurturing role, to be a helper, or to show kindness to their new sibling, just like the character in the story. And on days when they’re feeling less than thrilled about the change, these books can offer a sense of comfort, letting them know that all these feelings are normal.

As we help our kids adjust, storytelling can be one of the gentlest, most effective ways to ease their transition. It’s a quiet way to let them know that they’re still important, and loved and that this new chapter includes them in every possible way.

Sibling Stories About Birth and Babies

1. "I'm a Big Brother" / "I'm a Big Sister" by Joanna Cole

   These classics are simple and comforting, explaining the new baby’s arrival in a gentle, positive way, helping siblings feel involved and important.

   
   

2. "The New Baby" by Mercer Mayer

   Little Critter books are always a hit, and this one does a great job of showing some of the typical changes a family experiences when a new baby arrives.

   
   

3. "You Were the First" by Patricia MacLachlan

   This beautifully illustrated book reassures the older sibling of their special place in the family, even as the family grows.

   
   

4. "Peter’s Chair" by Ezra Jack Keats

   This classic story highlights the feelings of an older sibling as he adjusts to a new baby, complete with warm, relatable illustrations.

   
   

5. "Big Brother Daniel" by Angela C. Santomero

   Featuring Daniel Tiger, this book helps kids see the excitement and love that come with becoming an older sibling.
   

6. "The Berenstain Bears' New Baby" by Stan and Jan Berenstain

   Brother Bear adjusts to life with a new sibling, Sister Bear, which helps kids see that a new sibling can be a welcome addition.
   

7. "Waiting for Baby" by Rachel Fuller

   This board book is perfect for toddlers and young children, offering simple illustrations and text about a big sibling waiting for a new baby.
   

8. "Maple" by Lori Nichols

   This sweet story shows Maple's journey from being an only child to welcoming her new sibling, with a focus on connection and love.
   

9. "What Brothers Do Best / What Sisters Do Best" by Laura Numeroff

   These books celebrate the special bond between siblings, helping children feel excited about their unique role.
   

10. "Little Miss, Big Sis" by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

    This rhyming book captures the wonder of becoming an older sibling with warmth and charm.

These books aren’t just stories—they’re gentle guides, helping kids understand and embrace their new family dynamics in a way that feels safe and fun. In each of these tales, there’s a reminder of what we want our kids to feel through this journey: loved, seen, and secure in their unique place in the family.

Happy reading, and may these stories bring a little more love and understanding to your growing family!