When a new baby arrives, visitors bring gifts for the baby. The older child often gets nothing. This post is about a small change: bring two gifts, and make one of them for the big brother or sister.
Why two gifts
An older child may feel left out when the house fills with baby things. A gift of their own says, you matter too. It does not need to be big or loud.
A crocheted animal makes an easy choice. It can sit on a bed, ride in a bag and join the games your child already plays.
The gift for the older child
Pick an animal your child already likes. A large one can be a good choice, since it looks important. Give it with a short line, such as, you are the big sister now, and this is your helper.
Let your child hold the animal while you talk. Do not push a big speech. A hug and a name for the animal go a long way.
The gift for the baby
Here we want to be careful. We make no age or safety claims for our animals, so we cannot tell you what suits a newborn. What we state is short. Plain animals are made of recycled acrylic yarn with zero plastic and nothing detachable, and they are easy to clean.
If the baby is very small, you might give the animal to the parents as a keepsake for later. They can decide when and how it is used. Adult supervision is needed at all times, and the care guide has our cleaning notes.
A matching pair
Some families like the idea of a pair: a big elephant for the older child and a small one for the baby. The two look like they belong together, even in different sizes.
- Elephant: one large and one small, in the same colour.
- Bear: one tan, one blue, so each child has a colour.
- Hippo: a quiet choice for a child who likes water games.
Choosing the sizes
We make Small, Medium, Large and Extra large. A sibling gift often works well as one Large and one Small. The Size Finder asks about the person and the place, then suggests a size. Try it with the older child in mind first.
Writing the gift note
If you add a note, keep it short and kind. Use first names only. Please do not include a child's surname or school in the note.
Here is one that works: Welcome to the family, little one. This is for you, big brother, from someone who thinks you are brilliant.
If you want something different
The Gift Finder lists ideas by occasion. If you have a colour in mind, or a name you want to match with an animal, the Studio lets you send us the idea. We will tell you what is possible.
A baby will not remember who gave which gift. The big sister will.
