A new baby brings lots of attention, and older siblings sometimes feel left out. A coloring gift just for them says, "You’re important too."
Why coloring makes a great big sibling gift
- Calm activity during feedings. Kids can color beside a parent who’s feeding the baby.
- Something just for them. Visitors often bring baby gifts; this one is theirs.
- Pride. Kids can color pages to give the new baby.
Theme ideas
- Baby animals from Trace Then Color: Baby Animals, to talk about babies and families
- Baby robots from Trace Then Color: Baby Robots, for a fun twist
- Family pages from Trace Then Color: Cartoon People, to color the new family
Put together a big sibling kit
- A coloring book
- Fresh crayons or markers
- A "Big Brother" or "Big Sister" sticker
- A small pouch to keep it all together
Coloring for the baby
- Color a page to hang by the crib
- Color a card welcoming the baby home
- Make a "my family" page with the new baby
Talking about feelings
Coloring side by side gives kids a chance to talk about big feelings, including jealousy. See coloring and big feelings.
Ask visitors to bring a small coloring gift for the big sibling. It makes a big difference.
Questions parents ask
What age is a big sibling coloring gift good for?
Ages 2 and up. Match supplies to the child’s age.
How can I help my child adjust to a new baby?
One-on-one time, involving them in small ways and calm activities together all help.
Is coloring safe near a baby?
Keep small supplies like caps away from the baby, and color at a table.
About Kevin Coulston
Kevin Coulston is a cartoonist and member of the National Cartoonists Society who has written and illustrated more than 100 drawing, tracing and coloring books for kids, including the Trace Then Color series. Meet Kevin or browse all his books on FirstArtBooks.com.
