The Shower Diva: Where Fun Reigns!

Answer:

Dear Ginny,

Thank you for your question. We love baby showers that include older siblings! This is the perfect time to have the big sister share in the celebration. It all depends on the age of the big sister, but I can share my own experience with you.

What I did with my own daughter who became a big sister last year, was a couple of things. First I bought a book for Tori, "I'm a Big Sister!" and started reading it to her months before Emily's arrival. I would point out the pictures of Mommy, Daddy, Tori and...Emily! That way, Tori was aware of a new baby coming into the household.

Then, I gave her a t-shirt "I'm a Big Sister!" (found here at BabyBingo.com) - actually that's a photo of Emily and Tori! - and tried to explain the meaning of being a big sister. It's kind of hard for a 2 year old to get the concepts, but once Emily arrived, she welcomed her with big loving arms, kisses and hugs.

But to answer the question about the shower - since Tori was under 2 at the time, we dressed her up and gave her special assignments and the women naturally hugged her and made her feel special.

If the big sister coming to your shower is older, and this works wonderfully with cousins, young teenagers and pre-teens as well, we've played "Baby Bingo" (also found at BabyBingo.com) - it really helps them to feel included when they take on the "caller" part - they have SO much fun! You can also assign "gift tracking" to them if they are old enough to spell and write well. Give them shower duties such as refilling punch cups or asking the guests if they need anything. Being helpful is probably the best way a big sister can truly feel part of the celebration.

If you have any questions or would like to know about anything else, please ask! We're here to help make your shower super special!

Happy Showering!

 

Susan "The Shower Diva"
Where Fun Reigns!™