Books are a great way to explain to a toddler or young child about the new baby brother or sister that they have or that will soon be arriving in their life. By reading young children stories and discussing what is happening in the pictures you can help them understand what life will be like with a new baby.

Here are some books which we would recommend to help introduce the concept of a new baby brother or sister to your child. We have also included books which cover life and sibling interactions after the new baby has arrived.

	Theres A House Inside My Mummy – This is a really nice book about a little boy whose Mummy is going to have a new baby. The story is told in rhyming text and illustrated with very bold colourful pictures. There are plenty of things to talk about as you read this book with your child.
	My New Baby – This book has no words but has some lovely illustrations showing a little boy and his new baby brother in various situations such as having his nappy changed, having a bath, going for a walk etc. It is perfect for introducing your toddler to what life with a new baby will involve. Parents can tell the story in their own words while discussing the situations in the pictures.
	Waiting For Baby – This book is part of the same series as ‘The New Baby’ and again has no text but lovely illustrations to help you explain the story in your own words. This book covers the period from pregnancy up until the birth of the new baby.
	Topsy and Tim: The New Baby - The story of Topsy and Tims friend, Toby and his new baby brother. This book covers a lot of issues including getting the nursery ready, feeding the baby and a lot more. It even covers the issue of the elder sibling getting a bit jealous although he soon learns to be a helpful big brother.
	Annie Rose Is My Little Sister – Shirley Hughes stories about Alfie and his little sister Annie Rose have been around for years but still haven’t lost their appeal. While this book isn’t actually about a new baby, it is about Alfie’s relationship with his little sister. It covers the ups and downs of having a little sister in a very positive but realistic manner and is a lovely way to introduce young children to what life with a younger sibling could be like.