Including Older Siblings in 1st Birthday Party Celebrations

One problem that inevitably arises any time a child's brother or sister celebrates a birthday is gift jealousy. It could be even stronger at a first birthday where the number of gifts tend to be higher. Ward off the green monster by giving your older child a small gift to say thank you for being a super big brother or sister.

• a customized t-shirt with a special phrase or cute picture
• a favorite movie or TV show on DVD
• new book from a series he or she enjoys
• art supplies in a fun container
  

A first birthday party involves so much hustle and bustle that toddlers can feel stressed out and forgotten about with all the activity. To help an older child feel included in a first birthday party, give her a job that makes her feel needed and important.

• Gift Opener One-year-olds have not quite learned the art of opening presents, but a toddler or preschooler knows exactly what to do.
• Favor Distributer Keep older siblings busy by putting them in charge of passing out favors. They will delight in giving away tiny wrapped packages and you will not have to worry about forgetting them.
• Song Leader When a baby turns one, everyone wants to take part in a wishful chorus of "Happy Birthday." Give an older child the honor of starting the song for her little brother or sister.
  

You will spend many hours planning and getting ready for a child's first birthday; it has to be perfect, right? However, other kids in the family just see you spending extra time and effort on the baby. An older sibling will not feel left out if you let him assist you with party planning and preparation. Think about these things a young child can do:

• Help pick a theme or color scheme for party decorations
• Decorate cupcakes or other special treats
• Play with the baby while you clean for the party
• Choose a birthday gift for the baby
• Set up toys, games and crafts to entertain kids during the celebration
• Select a special birthday outfit for the baby (provide two or three to choose from that have mommy approval)
  

Chances are that an explosion of family and friends will show up to celebrate a first birthday. Even if this includes familiar faces, an older sibling knows the guests are coming to see the baby turn one. Help your toddler or preschooler feel better by letting him invite one friend his age. They can do a special party assignment together or even play independently during part of the celebration.