When a new baby is on the way, siblings are part of the journey too. Including children in the birth experience can build connection and ease the transition into a growing family. At Worcester Community Midwifery, we support sibling involvement in birth when it’s safe and appropriate, helping families create meaningful, supported moments together.

Birth Preparation for Siblings

A little planning goes a long way in helping children feel ready and confident. Before labor begins, talk to your child about what birth might look and sound like. Keep explanations age-appropriate and reassuring.

Ways to support birth preparation for siblings:

• Read books or watch videos about birth designed for children
• Tour the birth setting or show them the space if you’re planning a home birth
• Explain who will be there and what everyone’s role is
• Practice calming techniques like deep breaths or visualizations

Let them know it’s okay to ask questions and take breaks during the experience. If you want to learn more, check out this resource that includes many frequently asked questions.

Supporting Children in the Birth Space

If your child will be present at the birth, make sure a trusted adult is assigned to focus solely on them. This person can provide comfort, help answer questions, and step out with them if needed.

Helpful tips for including children in the birth experience:

• Give them a small comfort kit with snacks, toys, or books
• Let them participate in gentle ways, like offering water or words of encouragement
• Normalize a wide range of emotions because birth can be beautiful, intense, and surprising

The goal is not to make them witnesses to everything, but to help them feel part of something meaningful.

Welcoming the New Baby

After birth, let siblings approach the baby in a way that feels natural to them. Encourage gentle interactions like touching a foot, singing a song, or choosing the first family photo. Some children benefit from drawing or writing about the experience afterward. These simple acts help deepen their connection and make them feel like important members of the growing family.

At Worcester Community Midwifery, we view birth as a family-centered experience, one that honors emotional needs as much as physical ones. That’s why we’re developing Worcester’s first independent birth center, where sibling involvement in birth and community-based care are part of the foundation. If our mission speaks to you, we invite you to follow along or support the center’s development.