10 Sibling Gifts for a Toddler

Like all changes in a toddler's life, books can be a great way to prepare a young child for a major transition (like ditching diapers or moving out of the crib). Waiting for Baby or I’m a Big Sister are great board book options for younger toddlers. For slightly older children, try something like My New Baby And Me: A First Year Record Book For Big Brothers And Sisters.

Toddlers are often too young to fully grasp the change that is about to happen to their family. A baby doll, complete with a bottle, diapers, and other common baby items, can let a toddler mimic mom and dad as they take care of the new baby.

If you’re feeling crafty and able to put a lot of thought and time into a gift, a big sibling kit might be the way to go. Include activity books, small trinkets and a “toolkit” to help mom and dad. Check out Pinterest for ideas and examples.

Toddlers will love the reaction they get when they wear a big brother or big sister t-shirt. People will know to pay special attention to the toddler's new role.

For close family and friends, consider taking a toddler out for a day trip shortly after the new sibling arrives. It will give parents time to tend to the newborn, and it will make the older sibling feel special. Children’s museums, zoos or aquariums, indoor playspaces, playgrounds ande kid-friendly restaurants are all great choices for an outing with a toddler.

Create a photo album with pictures of the toddler beginning with his birth to current photos. Going through the album together will not only make the toddler feel extra special, but it will also give parents an easy way to talk about how the toddler used to be a baby, just like the family's newest arrival.

Since toddlers don't grasp the concept of time, nine months is basically an eternity to hear about a baby coming without anything but mom's growing belly to show for it. As the due date approaches, create a calendar that visually represents the days remaining before the due date. You can have the toddler add stickers to a chart or have them open small gifts (like a piece of candy) each day.

Make a toddler feel like a big kid by getting him and his new sibling matching gifts -- a big version for the toddler and a smaller version for the baby. It is easy to find big and little sibling apparel, like a t-shirt and a onesie, or a small and large stuffed animal.

Help keep a toddler busy with toys that engage her. Coloring books and crayons, puzzles, Lego Duplo sets, and stickers are great options to occupy toddlers while mom and dad are busy with the baby.

Let the toddler play photographer and capture special moments with his new baby sibling. Toddlers love gadgets and digital cameras built especially for kids are more durable than an adult's smartphone.