Tuesday, June 30, 2015

A Big Sister Gift?

Since getting pregnant, I knew Ellie would be a great big sister, but I'm completely aware of the adjustment she's going to face when she realizes the baby stays with us forever and not just for a visit. Right now she gets all of our attention and we can meet all of her needs pretty much on demand. I know that sounds like we spoil her and we don't, but compared to how it will be when the baby arrives it's totally going to be a whole new world for her. I have some fears about not being able to pick her up when she needs or wants me to, getting the girls on the same nap schedule, finding a schedule at all that works for us, and any negative feelings Ellie will be going through as she adjusts such as jealousy.

We've been reading several big sister and baby books to her and she's obsessed with babies when we're out and her dolls at home, but just like how you can't truly prepare for parenthood, I don't think we can fully prepare her for her little sister. One idea I've been wanting to do is have a gift ready from the baby for Ellie with a note to her. I realize this isn't a new idea, my mom gave me a new dolly when my sister arrived and she said I didn't even care about the baby and just played with the doll for most of the visit. Although, there were some pretty cute pics of me holding Karli, so I obviously had the big sister thing down from the start.

I've been looking through Pinterest (follow me here!) for some ideas and I think a little activity sack with quiet time activities might be the best route for her. I want to fill it with items she loves and some new items she doesn't have. Here's what I'm thinking:

 photo Big Sister Gifts Blend_zpskf2yy7gs.jpg

Coloring Books
Snacks

I don't want to go too crazy, but I want her to have something special. I thought about getting her a doll like my mother did for me, but she has so many dolls and I want her to have a gift that she will enjoy. Maybe I could add a My Little Pony?

Mamas- did you have your little ones exchange gifts? What did they give each other? How did it work for your children?  What are your tips and ideas? All ideas and input are welcome!

8 comments :

Meg O. said...

Caroline gave Kennedy the book "On The Night You Were Born" - something a little sentimental. Along with some movies like the Little Mermaid. Love this list you got!

Anonymous said...

I only have one child but one tip I've heard is once baby is born and when you get visitors people tend to bring gifts but only for the new baby and not for both children. My friend bought a few very inexpensive (even from the dollar store or target $1 bins) and had them wrapped ready in case someone brought a gift only for the new baby. She said that really helped with any jealousy the first few days when you have visitors!

Carolyn said...

I'm thinking of getting Weston a big brother gift too! I'm so nervous about how his life will change when baby brother gets here! I know that he'll be awesome with him, but like you said - he's used to having two parents to help him whenever he needs it. Such a change! I love what you're thinking of getting!

Unknown said...

I have been thinking about this a lot considering I'm only 14 weeks along! I was planning on taking Emma to the store to pick out something special for when she visits the new baby. The baby would have a special gift for her, too. I have no idea what to get for Emma yet though. I was going to wait a bit to see what she's into closer to the date. I agree with the small trinkets for when visitors bring a gift for the new baby. My mom did that 100 years ago for my older brother when I was born. Also awhile back you had mentioned having guest bloggers on to do posts about pregnancy. I'd love to contribute. I was thinking maybe a post on books to prepare your little one before and after baby is born? Let me know if you're interested!,

Kristen said...

Meg - That's so cute!! Great idea about a book and a movie!

Kristen said...

Anabel- That's genius! I'll definitely do that, thanks for the suggestion!!

Kristen said...

Carolyn- It's gonna be so tough on them, but I know they'll do great!

Unknown said...

I had my oldest pick out a "lovey" for the new baby and she helped wrap it and put it in my hospital bag. The new baby gave my oldest a princess pillow she had been wanting. It was very simple but so precious!