A new baby in the family is always an exciting time … but amid the flurry of labor and all the fuss over an infant, older siblings can often feel sidelined. That's why many moms put together "big brother" or "big sister" kits to remind older siblings of how special they are.
So what should be included in a "big sibling" kit? Look no further than these ideas from moms and otherwise. From cameras to snacks to personalized coloring books, these packages will get them excited about the new arrival, and keep them busy (because let's face it, you've got a lot on your hands right now)!
Think #1 would inspire big sisters to pitch in more with the baby?
Image via theideaboxkids/Etsy
Big Sister to the Rescue!
Big sisters are just like superheroes, right? That's why this "Superhero Big Sister Kit" will inspire her to leap into her new role — offering to change diapers, fetch wipes, and all in all help baby (and mom) keep it together. $26.50 @ Bumblebean
Big Brother Box
This box of big brother activities will get big bro guessing baby's weight and eye color, measuring baby's tummy, and helping out at home, thanks to wooden coins listing age-appropriate chores. $17.99 @ theideaboxkids/Etsy
Can of Fun
Personalized paint cans make the perfect container for this big brother kit, which includes a variety of goodies from party poppers to celebrate and a candy bar wrapped in a "new big brother" ribbon.
For Your Little Monkey
This big brother kit covers all the big-bro basics, with books (My New Baby introduces your kids to the fact that you'll be breastfeeding), snacks, and more, all with a budget-friendly spin. The "big brother" t-shirt and "little sister" onesie inside, for instance, were iron-on decals for two bucks apiece!
Pretty In Pink
This big sister kit from Trailorhood Aristocrats would make any big-sister-to-be feel special: It's stuffed to the top with a pink "Best Big Sis" t-shirt and hairbows, snacks, a Big Sister Dora! book, and (last but not least) a pink digital camera to take photos of her new sibling.
More from The Stir: 5 Tips for Preparing Your Toddler for a New Sibling
Thanks for the Memories
While a lot of big sister kits contain disposal cameras, this one takes things one step further by including a photo album where she can place her photos — a keepsake for years to come. A big sister coloring book and crayons will also keep her busy. $24.95 @ PersonalizedGifts4U/Etsy
Big Sister Box
This big sister box contains a decorate-your-own big sister t-shirt, a banner craft to welcome baby home, and a make-your-own picture frame with buttons where she can show a photo of her new family member. $19.99 @ BusyBoxFun/Etsy
For Monster Truck Lovers
If your child is into monster trucks, they will love this big brother kit, which comes complete with a disposable camera so he can snap his own pics of his baby, as well as a personalized photo album where he can put them later. $9.99 @ PersonalizedGIfts4U/Etsy
For Your Little Helper
This big sister kit will prep your child to be the perfect helper: In addition the usual snacks and disposable camera, this one includes a tiny SnuggyBaby sling for her own "baby" doll, as well as a note saying, "Happy Big Sister Day! We can't wait to see you grow into a great big sister!"
More from The Stir: This Kid Is Not Happy She Has a New Baby Sister. NOT Happy.
A Book About ... Big Bro or Big Sis!
Rather than share a generic book about becoming a big sibling, why not make it personal? This big sibling book comes personalized with their name and offers plenty of reassurance that they're very much loved and appreciated. It also includes an oversized medal they can wear announcing that they're a "Super, Incredible Big Sibling." Talk about some great incentives! $34.95 @ personalcreations.com
Big Sib Scrubs
Big sibling scrubs will get kids excited about visiting the hospital to meet their newest family member. And they can use them later for dress up. $21.99 @ Amazon
Coloring Made Personal
It's one thing to give the big brother or sister a coloring book to keep them busy as the baby comes … it's a whole new level of special when that coloring book is personalized with their own name! $12.95 @ Personalizationmall.com
More from The Stir: 11 Heart-Melting Images of Siblings Meeting Baby for the First Time (PHOTO)
To Keep Bored Boys Busy
Boys will need LOTS to do while you're occupied with your baby, and this big brother kit delivers in spades, including puzzles, play doh, sidewalk chalk, a mini science experiment kit and more.
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