The arrival of a new baby marks a magical time for the whole family, filled with excitement and anticipation. The early days of a baby’s life are when family and friends come together to celebrate, often presenting the newborn with gifts.
However, one question that comes up for young families fairly frequently, is whether or not an older sibling will be envious of the attention that the new baby is receiving and if the older brother a sister should be given a present at the same time as the baby so that they don't feel left out?
Should I get an older sibling a gift at the same time as a new baby?
If you're shopping for a baby that has an older brother or sister then you might be thinking about getting the older child(ren) a gift too. While this isn't compulsory it can be a nice touch especially if you don't see them as often as you would like or if you haven't given them a little something recently.
With lots of attention on the new baby it is an exciting time for the whole family and smaller children may appreciate a little attention. If your gift is something that keeps them entertained while the grown ups chat the parents will also appreciate the gesture. Depending on the length of your visit and the type of present, (eg a sticker book, colouring, fuzzy felt etc) you may even like to spend some quality time helping the big sister or brother to use the gift while you visit.
When to give older sibling a gift from baby?
Many families like to give older siblings a gift from the baby at the same time as the new baby receives their gifts. With friends and relatives popping in and out during those early weeks you could give a gift for the sibling from your newborn at the same time eg a family gathering when lots of other gifts are being given.
Or you may prefer a quiet moment when you can explain to the older brother or sister that the gift is for them from the baby. There will be many times when the new siblings can bond and this may mark one of those first special occasions.
Should an older sibling give a baby gift to their new brother or sister?
Given that most older siblings will also be children themselves, there is no imperative for older child siblings to get their own gift for the new baby. However, in our experience as parents, older siblings are often super excited to get a new brother or sister - and as baby gift-giving is often centred around a specific party or family celebration - it is not uncommon for older brothers and sisters to want to give a baby gift too. It is also natural for older brothers and sisters to want to show their love and support - if everyone else is getting the baby a gift they may think that, as they are now a big girl/boy, they should too.
One further reason to support your child in helping them to get a gift for the newborn is that doing so can be a great learning opportunity, teaching older siblings about the importance of giving and sharing. However, if you’re not able to fund an additional gift for your new arrival, options to help your older child feel included could be to consider adding their name on the gift card for your gift or encouraging them to make something (a drawing/painting) and allowing them the opportunity to present this to the baby. Ultimately, however, it is a personal choice that should be made based on the individual circumstances of your family.
What type of baby gift should an older sibling get for their new brother or sister?
When it comes to deciding on what’s an appropriate baby gift for an older sibling to give their new brother or sister, there are many options to consider. It is often a good idea for older children to give smaller and age-appropriate gift items that are tokens of appreciation for their new brother or sister; such as toys, blankets, books, and keepsakes. More practical or adult gifts, such as chocolates, drinks, or bathroom products, may be less appropriate depending on the sibling’s age. Here are some baby gift ideas that are both thoughtful and age-appropriate:
- Rattles: A classic baby toy that helps with sensory development. Choose one with bright colours and different textures to engage the baby's senses. Rattles are a great gift for older siblings to give because they are fun and engaging for the baby, siblings can demonstrate how they work and they can help with their development. Plus, they are easy to hold and play with, making them a perfect gift for siblings to bond.
- Comforters: Comforters are small soft toys, often with a small blanket designed to comfort the newborn during the night or when faced with a new situation. They are excellent gifts for older siblings to give their new brother or sister as they are usually of a small enough size and can provide familiarity and comfort for the newborn, which may then be associated with their older sibling.
- Baby Blankets: Warm and cosy blankets that are perfect for snuggling. Opt for a soft and breathable fabric that will keep the baby warm without overheating. Blankets are a great gift for older siblings to give because they are practical and useful.
- Photo Frames: Photo frames are a great gift for older siblings to give because they can help capture and preserve special memories of your children and the bond that the siblings have together. Plus, they can be displayed in the baby's nursery, making them a beautiful and meaningful addition to the room.
- Baby Keepsakes: Keepsakes are gifts that will be treasured for years to come, which is ideal for when the baby grows into a child and then a young adult. Consider keepsakes such as a baby journal, photo frame, baby book, or money box to help with starting to save for the baby’s future. Baby keepsakes are a great gift for older siblings to give because they are unique and meaningful.
- Early Learning Toys: More suited for a baby’s first birthday, early learning toys can promote cognitive development and learning for the baby. Look for toys that are age-appropriate and safe for the baby to play with. Early learning toys are a great gift for older siblings to give because they can help the baby develop important skills, such as hand-eye coordination and problem-solving. Plus, they are fun and engaging, making them a great gift.
- Baby Books: Another option is baby books with colourful pictures and simple stories. Choose books with sturdy pages that are easy for the baby to turn and explore. Books are a great gift for older siblings to give because they can help the baby develop a love of reading. Plus, they can be read together, making them a special bonding activity for the siblings.
- Musical Toys: Toys that play soothing music or sounds. Look for toys that are easy for the baby to activate and that have a volume control. Musical toys are a great gift for older siblings to give because they can help soothe and calm the baby. Plus, they can be fun and entertaining too.
- Soft Animals: You’ll never go wrong with a soft and huggable companion for the baby. Choose a stuffed animal that is safe for the baby to cuddle with and that is entertaining - such as a tiger, elephant, owl, or fox. Stuffed animals are a great gift from older siblings too because they can provide comfort and companionship to the baby. With Bumbles and Boo, many of our soft toys can also be personalised with the baby's name or a special message, making them a special and meaningful gift.
- Building Blocks: Toys that encourage creativity and fine motor skills for babies. Look for blocks that are easy for the baby to grasp and that can be stacked and sorted. Building blocks are a great gift for older siblings to give because they can help the baby develop important skills, such as hand-eye coordination and problem-solving. Plus, they are fun and engaging.
Where can I find baby gifts that are suitable for older siblings?
If you're looking for the perfect toddler gift for your baby to give to their new sibling, look no further than Bumbles and Boo's big brother and sister gifts. With a wide range of thoughtful and unique gifts, you're sure to find plenty of age-appropriate options that will delight both the baby and the older sibling.
Searching for a new baby gift?
Giving a gift to a new baby is a wonderful way to show your love and support. Whether you're the parent of an older sibling or a family member, there are many thoughtful and age-appropriate options to choose from. And with Bumbles and Boo's new baby gifts, collection we are confident that you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for your child’s new baby brother or sister.
