How to Prep Your Toddler for a Newborn Session

If you are worried about how your toddler will act for their new sibling’s newborn session, you are NOT alone! Don’t Panic! I am a former kindergarten teacher and have two littles of my own so I know the world of young children; I am fluent in toddler!  I pride myself on making fast friends with my young clients by following their lead and making the session feel fun for the entire family.  I consider it a success when children ask their parents when I am coming back to play! 

A few ideas for you to consider:

·      Before our session, explain to your young children that Miss McKinzie (or KiKi, or Kinzie, or The Picture Lady, whatever you want to call me!) will be coming to take pictures of the whole family with the new baby. Let them know it is supposed to be fun!

·      Tell that everyone in the family will be getting out of their pajamas/sweat pants (covid world!) and put on nice clothes for the pictures. Maybe set the clothes out the day before and talk about how handsome or cute they will look. Or how they will look like the big kid neighbor that they idolize! (Can you tell I’ve had to talk my daughter into wanting to wear a specific outfit before?)

·      Lastly, and I would argue most importantly, have a special snack or activity planned for after the session to celebrate the great job that they did.  You may want to have a tidy snack ready if the toddler needs a break in the middle of the session as well.  A little enticement can go a long way! Usually my kids are very cooperative when they know cookies are involved! :)