30 Sweet Gifts for Siblings From Baby, According to Parents
You’re not the only one who’s getting ready to meet baby. Bringing another little one home will be a big change for your older child, who’s probably used to being the center of your universe. But with a little TLC—and a thoughtful new sibling gift—you can make sure they still feel important. tam0710, a member of The Bump community forums, still remembers the new sibling gift she received when she became a big sister. "My parents gave me a big sister gift when both my brother and sister were born, and I still remember exactly what they gave me and how special I felt (I was 4 and 6 when they were born). They really made a big deal out of me being a big sister, and I think that helped me transition and not feel so jealous,” she shares.
Giving a gift to an older sibling when baby is born is a popular practice meant to ease your kiddo’s anxiety and stir up excitement about their new role. This could be a sibling gift “from” the new baby or a present preparing them for baby’s birth. What defines a good new sibling gift idea? Something that’s personalized, involves your child in newborn preparations or simply makes having a baby sibling sound fun. ilovemygirls, another member of The Bump community forums, says: “I think anything that [your child is] really into would be great; it doesn’t necessarily have to be baby- or big sibling-oriented." If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to sibling gift ideas, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. There are lots of awesome big sister and big brother gifts out there. Below, shop our favorite sibling gift ideas that are sure to make your kiddo smile.
In this article:
Gifting for milestone moments isn’t always a breeze. That’s why we browsed an array of products from leading brands and online retailers to help you pick out the perfect present for the new older sibling in your life. To create this article:
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We researched what was being said about gifts for siblings in The Bump community and forums to learn what parents gifted their children and their reasoning behind the presents.
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To see how these products have worked for families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents nationwide looked for in gifts for siblings from baby.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
A big sibling book
Sometimes all a skeptical sibling needs is some positive reinforcement—and that’s where this new sibling gift comes in. These personalized bedtime books are entertaining, encouraging and will hopefully send your child off to sleep with happy dreams about their new role in the family. Our product tester, Korin M., a mom of four, told us: “The theme reinforces the importance of being a good big sibling, as well as being a lifelong friend, which is incredibly sweet. The medal was also a big hit.” Talk about a good sibling gift from the new baby! What’s more, there’s also an option for big brothers.
Our community says:
My daughter loved this book, and she really enjoys pointing out the images of herself and her little sister in it. – Korin M., mom of four
A baby doll
Keep your little one entertained with their own baby while you’re busy introducing your newborn to the world. This ultra-soft doll comes with a magnetic pacifier and clothing complete with hook-and-loop closure, so your kiddo can practice taking care of a newborn. While this plush option is the perfect new sibling gift for a toddler, you can also opt for a more advanced doll, depending on your child’s age.
Our community says:
I bought [my daughter] a doll and accessories. Hopefully, she can take care of her baby when I take care of the new baby. – mufflerlove, The Bump forum member
[I] was thinking maybe a new baby doll of her own to take care of. – kjd291, The Bump forum member
A doll accessory set
Whether you’re giving your little one a baby doll or they already have one, this accessory set makes for a super sweet gift for siblings. With it, you’ll receive a bundle of miniature baby gear, including a playpen, a high chair and a jogging stroller. By putting their doll to bed, feeding them or taking them on a walk, your toddler can embrace their new role and responsibilities as a big kid. Moreover, the lightweight designs can easily be moved around the house—plus, they’re made from easy-clean materials.
Our community says:
We got our daughter a new doll with a stroller and a playpen. That way, she could play with the doll and follow what mommy does as I look after her baby sister. We will give her the doll at the hospital and the rest at the house when the baby comes home. – alexsandrag, The Bump forum member
A personalized book
Books make great gifts for siblings of a new baby, which is why they appear more than once on this list. Reassure your tot that there’s enough love to go around with this heartwarming rhyming tale. With Wonderbly’s user-friendly design features, you can customize the storybook with your older child's name and character, then add a character for baby too. Both siblings will appear on the cover, which is sure to get your little one excited to meet their new playmate.
A big sibling shirt
Fill your firstborn with a sense of pride by giving them a special outfit as a new sibling gift, which they can wear to the hospital when baby arrives. We love this pick from Sweet Wink, which Martina Garvey, an editor for The Bump, gifted to a family friend ahead of the birth of their second child. Imagine the sweet photo possibilities—just like these from Gemma W., mom of two.
"Luke was very excited to become a big brother, he even wanted to name the baby Luke, after himself! Since baby James has been born he's been the most doting and loving big brother,” Gemma shared.
Our community says:
We have bought [my son] a big brother shirt. I was thinking of putting together a "Big Brother Kit" for when we are at the hospital that will have different things in it. I was also thinking of making him some thing to put on his wall, talking about how cool it is to be a big brother. – MamaSpryte, The Bump forum member
My boys are each getting a little bag with a 'big brother' t-shirt, a book, a little toy for something to do, and snacks for while they wait with Grandma and Papa. – csells021383, The Bump forum member
[My son] is getting a Big Brother t-shirt, snack and a toy that's wrapped in special paper. – Lauren&Mat, The Bump forum member
A backpack
Your little one is sure to have heart eyes for this backpack. While you’re busy toting baby’s essentials, you can inspire independence in your older child by having them carry their belongings in this sweet bag. Korin says it’s roomy enough to hold numerous items, without being so big that younger toddlers can’t safely carry it. “This bag features an impressive level of comfort thanks to thick straps with ample padding; my daughter even forgot she was wearing it at one point,” she added.
Choose from several patterns and sizes for a custom gift your kiddo won’t want to put down. You can even add initials or a monogram for added personalization. Pro tip: Fill it with small goodies (like snacks and a few of their favorite toys) to keep them entertained if they’re coming to visit you in the hospital!
Our community says:
We got our daughter a new doll with a stroller and a playpen. That way, she could play with the doll and follow what mommy does as I look after her baby sister. We will give her the doll at the hospital and the rest at the house when the baby comes home. – alexsandrag, The Bump forum member
Reusable sticker sheets
Gifts for siblings don’t have to break the bank. Case in point: These sticker sheets from Melissa & Doug, which ring in at under $10. Each pad includes five nature scenes and more than 150 reusable stickers that can be repositioned time and time again. This budget-friendly present is sure to provide your little one hours of entertainment, so you can focus on breastfeeding, taking care of baby or anything else you need to do in those early weeks of new parenthood.
Our community says:
The baby will be giving [my son] some kind of activity that will keep him absorbed while I'm nursing. I'm thinking about those Melissa and Doug reusable sticker sets. – wintersong, The Bump forum member
A digital camera
One of the best gifts for a sibling when a new baby arrives is a digital camera. Why? Because kids adore taking pictures. This child-friendly option from VTech includes all the tools your budding photographer needs to get started. Featuring a selfie mode, a video recorder and four built-in games, this camera will be a hit with your tot. Better yet, baby will make the perfect model!
Our community says:
My aunt bought our daughter the VTech KidiZoom for her big sister gift and she LOVES it! Some of my favorite photos from the hospital were actually taken on that camera. – CrunchyMama, The Bump forum member
We're doing the child camera for [our daughter] (she'll be a few months over 2). My friends with the VTech have said the picture quality isn't bad, and it gets good reviews on Amazon. – mysticporter, The Bump forum member
A toddler climbing toy
If your child has a lot of energy and loves to play outside, opt for a toddler climbing toy. This outdoor structure is made from heavy-duty interlocking plastic tubes and joints that are UV-resistant and can withstand rough play. Even better, it’s lightweight, so it can be moved around easily when needed. Parents say it’s simple to assemble and that it’s provided their little ones with endless entertainment.
Our community says:
We bought this climbing fort when my second was born as a gift from us/the baby and a way to keep him entertained at 2-and-a-half-year-old; /[it] was a great distraction! – Catherine M., mom of three
A building blocks set
Keep your kiddo’s hands busy while you’re rocking baby or enjoying a moment to yourself, thanks to this sibling gift idea. Full of moving wheels, characters and bricks in all shapes and sizes, the colorful DUPLO playset will allow your tot’s imagination to run wild as they invent their own little world. Not to mention, they’re sure to become a more independent player.
Our community says:
We just purchased a DUPLO set and a 24-piece puzzle for my son’s sibling gift. Really hoping these toys will keep him busy when baby arrives! – Kaylee B., expectant mom of one
A coloring book and crayons
Searching for a present that will keep your child entertained during those first few busy weeks with baby? You can’t go wrong with a coloring book and crayons. This ocean-themed option features 48 coloring pages and 9 jumbo crayons; other styles include pets, safari animals and dinosaurs. Even better, this travel-friendly set comes in a convenient carry case (with a handle!) to keep everything organized from place to place.
Our community says:
My sister got her oldest […] a coloring book and some crayons to keep her busy while they were at the hospital. She loved to color, so it was great. Plus, she had something to do while people were visiting the new mom and baby and it kept her from getting bored. – efujan, The Bump forum member
A birthday cake
If your toddler is obsessed with birthdays, they may insist you get a cake to celebrate baby’s arrival—after all, it is their birthday! Simplify the process by preordering a cake delivery either to your home, to the hospital or anywhere else that’s convenient for you. This bestselling option from Milk Bar has three tiers, complete with creamy frosting and rainbow sprinkle-infused vanilla cake. You can place your order anywhere between 2 to 30 days in advance; plus, it can be stored in the fridge for up to five days and up to two weeks in the freezer. While this isn’t your typical new sibling gift, it’s bound to create long-lasting memories for your little one on the big day.
Our community says:
[My child] is going to buy the birthday cake and balloon with [my husband] when she comes to meet the baby. She's obsessed with birthdays. – ForeverEverAfter, The Bump forum member
[My daughter] has also requested birthday cake, lol. So we'll order a cake while we're in the hospital to pick up when we get home to celebrate [baby's] birthday. – Pepper6, The Bump forum member
A celebratory cake topper
Don’t forget celebratory decorations for the cake! This topper is made from glittering card stock and reads “big sister”; it’s sure to make your older kiddo feel special. Choose from several sizes and color options to personalize the decor.
Our community says:
I got a cake topper for my daughter that says 'big sister' and [I'm] going to order either a cupcake or small cake for her when the day comes." – jmacd22, The Bump forum member
An uplifting stuffed animal and book set
Becoming an older sibling is a big shift for kids, whether they’re toddlers, in elementary school or any age in between. Help them learn about their emotions and build self-esteem with this uplifting gift from Slumberkins. It includes a silky-smooth Bigfoot stuffed animal that your kiddo can cuddle with; I have one of these plush toys and can vouch for how soft it is! What’s more, it comes with two board books, which both remind little ones how loved they are and how to manage their feelings. Slumberkins also offers bundles focused on other emotions, such as family change, emotional courage and mindfulness, each of which is paired with a cuddly toy.
A big sibling book for older kids
Elementary school kids often have a lot of questions—and this book can help answer at least a few of them. Written by a mom of two and a nurse educator, the story explains what your kiddo can expect before baby arrives and from birth through toddlerhood. Parents describe the tone of the book as kid-friendly and light-hearted yet matter-of-fact, making it a great option for older kids becoming new siblings. pdbird, a member of The Bump community forums and expectant parent of a 6-year-old says: “We read it a few times a week and talk about what is going to happen. I also answer any questions [my son] has because he has a lot of them!"
Our community says:
We got my 6-year-old the book, "Babies Don't Eat Pizza" for Christmas. It's a cute book that explains exactly everything that is happening to me, what to expect for him and the changes that will occur. – pdbird, The Bump forum member
A sweet picture frame
If your child is proud to be an older sibling, this sentimental picture frame is bound to earn a special spot in their room—or maybe even on their desk at school! As your kids grow up together, they can update it with new photos.
Our community says:
[My son] is too small to understand, so we won't be doing [a new sibling gift], but maybe a special picture frame that he can put a picture of just him and the [little one] in? – Gators&BoSox, The Bump forum member
A plush pig
Is Peppa Pig constantly on in your household? Then a plush toy of your child’s beloved TV character is bound to make them smile. danahorowitz, a member of The Bump community forums, appreciates how Peppa Pig is a big sister, just like her three-and-half-year-old. “My [daughter] has become obsessed with Peppa Pig and is getting a Peppa doll and book from her new baby brother. (I also love how Peppa is an older sister/younger brother family just like ours),” she shares.
A super-soft robe
Little ones who love to pretend they’re mini-adults will definitely appreciate this robe from Pottery Barn Kids. The cuddly style is made from super-soft sherpa to ensure they stay cozy. Plus, it features a tie belt, pockets and a hood, for added convenience. If you’re planning to wear a maternity robe or a delivery gown, your kiddo will be able to match. Just think of how cute the photos will be!
Our community says:
l got [my 5-year-old daughter] a robe similar to the one I'll wear in the hospital. – ShawnaLynn83, The Bump forum member
A big sister bracelet
Celebrate your child’s new sibling status with this adorable bracelet! We love the handcrafted design and the lavender-colored beads. What’s more, Little Words Project offers a lifetime warranty, so you can ensure it’ll be a favorite for years to come. Just keep in mind that this gift for siblings should only be worn by big kids; jewelry isn’t safe for infants and toddlers to wear.
Our community says:
We're giving our older daughter a nice bracelet from her little sister. I think she'll love it and hopefully, it will last forever. – tinktink20, The Bump forum member
A wooden stamp set
Here’s another fun arts-and-crafts kit that new siblings are bound to love—especially when keeping you and baby company. This deluxe stamp set from Melissa & Doug comes with 30 wooden stamps, two washable ink pads and six colorful markers. The animal-themed prints will promote hand-eye coordination as your toddler learns to stamp—plus, they’ll encourage storytelling and imaginative play. C25, a member of The Bump community forums, says: “My oldest was [three-and-a-half] when his little brother was born, so I got him a gift from little brother, and it was mostly just activities he could do in the hospital. A movie, a stamp set and some treats.” We totally agree that this would be a great addition to a hospital goodie bag for kiddos!
Our community says:
[My three-and-a-half-year-old] actually LOVED it and played with the stamp set right away, so I was glad I got it. – C25, The Bump forum member
A mini cupcake assortment
Sweet treats are a surefire way of helping your kiddo to feel more comfortable in the hospital, at home and when meeting baby for the first time. This mini cupcake assortment will be great to have on hand. It comes with two dozen baked goods topped with vanilla and chocolate buttercream frosting as well as sprinkles. Magnolia Bakery delivers nationwide and can also be picked up locally in New York City.
Our community says:
I think I'll get [my son] some stuff to do in the hospital, and definitely a cupcake. That way if he's anxious he'll at least come into the room for cake. – datalover13, The Bump forum member
A cheerful teddy bear
Gifts for siblings can create lifelong memories around baby’s arrival—just ask KMeredith82, a member of The Bump community forums. "When my younger brother was born (we were 3 years apart as well), my parents gave me a Care Bear stuffed animal, and I still remember that 30+ years later,” she says. This cheerful pink bear is sure to make a positive impression on your child, and they’ll especially love the super-soft huggable material.
A set of bath toys
One way to ensure your little one doesn’t feel left out with all the visitors and attention on baby is by giving them a series of small new sibling gifts. Qmommy, a member of The Bump community forums, had this great idea: “I plan on buying the squirt bath toys and individually wrapping them so when people come over to meet the baby they can give my [daughter] a gift without actually having to buy anything for her.” We’re fans of this set from Munchkin, which comes with eight floating ocean friends, ranging from a penguin to a puffer fish.
A matching pajama set
This gift for new siblings is sure to keep your kiddo cozy. The zip-up PJs feature a cute print and are made from dreamy, soft bamboo-viscose fabric. The best part: They’re part of Little Sleepies’ sibling matching collection, so they come in newborn and infant sizes as well.
An audio player
Next up is this best-selling audio player for toddlers and big kids alike. With it, your little one can listen to an array of stories as told by their favorite book, movie and TV characters. This present will help your child wind down independently and maybe even teach them to self-soothe while you have your hands full with baby. It’s a win-win in our books!
A doll carrier
Here’s another one of the best new sibling gifts that we’ve seen: An Ergo Baby doll carrier. Your little ones want to be just like their parents. So while you have baby strapped in, let them carry their favorite toy. This beloved brand doesn't skimp on quality; the kids’ version is made from 100 percent cotton and has adjustable padded straps. Did somebody say mini-me?
A growth chart
One of the best gifts for siblings of a new baby is a growth chart. We love this personalized option featuring cute woodland critters. Your little tyke can see how much they’ve grown and compare it to their little sib’s progress. This present is sure to cement their status as a big kid.
A fizzy bath toy
Make bathtime something to look forward to with this fun, fizzy treat. Your little one is sure to light up as they see the mini volcano “erupt” when placed in water—then, they can even use it as a bath toy. How cool!
A pair of toddler headphones
It’s no secret that newborns can be noisy. Thankfully, with these headphones, your toddler can enjoy some alone time when needed. Whether they’re listening to their favorite songs, watching their go-to movie or anything in between, they’re bound to love this gift for siblings.
A comfy armchair
With this new sibling gift, your child will have a spot in the house to call their own. The monogrammed chair would look adorable in your kid's bedroom, playspace or even your living room. Here, they can curl up with a favorite book or to watch TV snuggled under a blanket. Choose from three different sizes and several classic colors.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor for The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content about the latest and greatest in pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Emma has researched an array of topics, from prenatal vitamins and postpartum pads to the best non-wifi baby monitors, toddler learning towers and everything in between. As a digital media professional, she’s written dozens of articles on baby gear, aiming to create engaging, helpful content that informs new and seasoned parents.
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