Guest Post: Big Brother/Sister Hospital Go Bag

I'm pretty sure you all know the amazing Jennifer of Classic Play! I might be biased (I am a contributor afterall) but Classic Play is one of my favorite places on the internet. And since Jennifer is totally my parenting idol, I am thirlled that she shared this awesome idea for making the older sibling feel special. Oh, and she even sent me this little bag, am I spoiled or what? Be sure to subscribe to the Classic Play Newsletter and follow on facebook, pinterest, twitter, and instagram.
Well Hi there Small Friendly readers! How excited are you for Carla and her crew? While Carla and her new little guy are napping and cuddling, I’m thrilled to be here to share a piece of advice that was given to me about going from a family of three to a family of four.
I’ve long been intrigued by siblings who share a strong bond, or, who seem to get along most of the time. As the oldest of four, I can confidentially say, I am skilled at sibling conflict, rivalry and button pushing. So obviously, not the best example.
Years ago, before I had kids, I worked with a woman whose children seemed, for the most part, to adore each other. I asked her what was the secret? She said, “When the baby comes along, it’s easy to make everything about them, but it’s the oldest who may need you even more. They’re the ones who feel the change the most. The baby won’t know the difference.”

(Photo Credit: Dave Cooper)
So when it came time for my son to be born, I took this advice to heart. I thought about all the preparations I went through and one in particular stuck out—my hospital bag. For me, it symbolized the adventure we were about to embark upon.
I made a special bag for my daughter to take to the hospital with her. I wrote Big Sister in large letters, so there was no guessing as to why she was there. Then I filled it with small toys, snacks and other things she loved. That way, she’d have something to play with while she was at the hospital. Because let’s face it, newborns aren’t exactly the best playmates. And after going through surgery and recovery, neither was I.
It’s been close to nine years ago since I made that bag. And while I can’t say specifically it’s what caused my two to share such a tight bond, I can’t say specifically it wasn’t. At the very least, I like to think it set the stage for a beautiful relationship.

Big Brother/Sister Hospital Go Bag
You’ll need: -a small drawstring or tote bag -transfer paper - pdf -small books, toys, puzzles, favorite snacks
Step 1 Print out pdf on transfer paper.
Step 2 Iron onto bag following manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3 Fill with items. In the one I made for Jude, I included: a puzzle; a silly Wooly Willy toy; a small play pack filled with crayons, stickers and coloring pages; and a book to remind him how just how special the night was he was born too.