Drawing to Help Kids Adjust to a New Baby
A new baby is a big change for older kids. Drawing helps them process feelings, feel included and bond with the baby. Ideas for big brothers and sisters.
Drawing helps older children adjust to a new baby by giving them a way to express mixed feelings, feel important and include themselves in the change. Drawing the baby, drawing family pictures and making gifts for the new sibling are simple, meaningful activities.
A new baby brings joy and big changes. Older siblings may feel excited, jealous, ignored or all three in the same afternoon. Drawing gives them a safe outlet and a special role.
Mixed feelings are normal
Older children might say they love the baby and also wish the baby would go back. Both feelings are normal. Drawing lets them express both without getting in trouble. A drawing of "the baby crying too loud" is better than a meltdown.
Drawing activities for big siblings
- Welcome card. Draw a card for the baby's arrival.
- Family portrait. Draw the whole family, including the new member.
- Big kid, little kid. Draw the things the older child can do that the baby cannot yet.
- Gift for baby. Make drawings to hang near the crib.
- Feelings faces. Draw how they feel about the baby today.
Baby animals make a sweet connection
Many kids love drawing baby animals when a new sibling arrives. It is a gentle way to talk about babies: how small they are, what they need, how they grow. How to Draw: Baby Animals is full of cute, simple baby animals. Draw a baby elephant together and talk about how big brother or sister elephants help.
Special one-on-one time
New babies take a lot of attention. A short, regular drawing session with just the older child, even ten minutes during naptime, tells them they still matter. Let them choose what to draw and give them your full attention.
Make them the artist in charge
Ask your older child to make art for the baby's room. Hang it at their eye level and point it out to visitors. Being the family artist gives them an important, positive role.
Watch for signs of stress
Some regression, like baby talk or wanting a bottle, is normal. If your child seems very withdrawn or upset for a long time, talk to your pediatrician. For more on expressing feelings, read drawing feelings.
Questions parents ask
How can I help my child adjust to a new sibling?
Give them special one-on-one time, a meaningful role like making art for the baby, and safe ways to express mixed feelings, such as drawing.
Is jealousy of a new baby normal?
Yes. Jealousy and mixed feelings are very common. Acknowledge them calmly and give your older child attention and outlets.
What can an older sibling make for a new baby?
Welcome cards, drawings for the nursery wall and a picture book of family drawings are lovely gifts that make older siblings feel involved.
More in feelings and calm, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
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