The Take a Breath Basket: A Thoughtful Big Sibling Gift for New Baby Transitions

When a new baby arrives, so much attention naturally shifts to the newborn and to the mom who’s recovering, adjusting, and learning how to care for two little humans instead of one. This season is joyful, but it’s also tender, and postpartum support often needs to extend beyond just the baby.

But there’s another heart in the home going through a big transition too: the big sibling. That’s why I love creating what I call a “Take a Breath Basket.” It’s a simple, intentional big sibling gift designed to do two things at the same time:

• Help mom take a breath as she adjusts to life with two kids

• Help the big sibling feel empowered, capable, and included during a season of change

What Is a Take a Breath Basket?

A Take a Breath Basket is especially helpful during a new baby sibling transition, when routines shift and everyone is learning a new rhythm. A Take a Breath Basket is a curated collection of independent, age-appropriate activities that a big sibling can use on their own (or with minimal help), especially during moments when mom needs to feed the baby, rest, or simply take a pause.

It sends a powerful message to the older child: You matter. You’re capable. You’re still seen. And it quietly supports mom by reducing the mental load during those early postpartum weeks.

What I Put Inside the Basket (and Why)

Each item in the basket supports calm, fun, confidence, and independence.

A Toddler Painting Kit

This is sensory, expressive, and naturally regulating. A simple painting kit gives the big sibling a creative outlet and a sense of autonomy.

Coloring & Sticker Activity Packs (2)

These are easy wins. They’re familiar, comforting, and require very little setup. Sticker activities, especially, help strengthen fine motor skills while keeping hands busy in a quiet way.

The Big Sister & Big Brother Coloring Books (The Heart of the Basket)

This is the anchor of the entire basket, and the reason this gift works so well during a new baby sibling transition.

I created the Big Sister Coloring Book and Big Brother Coloring Book to provide meaningful postpartum support for families by supporting the emotional needs of older siblings.

Each coloring book:

• Celebrates the child’s new role

• Builds confidence and emotional security

• Encourages calm, independent play

• Helps big siblings feel included instead of overlooked

These books are perfect for preschoolers navigating big feelings while mom’s attention is naturally divided.

👉 Shop the Big Sister Coloring Book

👉 Shop the Big Brother Coloring Book

Easy, Independent Snacks

Snacks that a child can open and eat on their own are a small but powerful support. Fewer interruptions = more breathing room for mom. Think simple, familiar, and mess-minimal.

A Card for Mom

This part matters more than we sometimes realize. A short note reminding mom that she’s doing a good job, that this season is temporary, and that it’s okay to take a breath.

Why This Basket Works

The Take a Breath Basket works because it honors both sides of the transition.

• It gives mom space without guilt

• It gives the big sibling purpose without pressure

• It supports independence without emotional disconnection

Instead of saying, “Wait, I’m busy with the baby,” the basket says: “Here’s something just for you.” That shift can make all the difference.

A Thoughtful Gift for Growing Families

If you’re looking for a baby gift that goes beyond onesies and swaddles or you’re preparing your own child for a new sibling, this basket is a perfect place to start.

And if you only choose one piece from it, make it the coloring book.

The Big Sister Coloring Book and Big Brother Coloring Book were created to support emotional growth, confidence, and calm during one of the biggest changes in early childhood.

👉 Browse the coloring books in my shop here.

Thank you for being here,

Lady with a Laminator