When a new baby comes home
A short cartoon about a big sibling with mixed feelings, starring your child. Watch it together at a calm time, then talk.
An example story beginning for this moment. It is not a cartoon of your own story.
Cartoons are made with AI. You preview each one before your child sees it. Automatic checks can miss things.
Let's imagine
Example, made with AI
Leo (4) has a new baby at home. The baby is asleep in Mom's arms. "Can I have a cuddle too?" Leo asks. Mom makes room with one arm. Leo brings his toy boat, and Biscuit lies down at their feet. Leo likes the baby's tiny fingers. Some days he misses having Mom all to himself. Both feelings are part of the story.
The characters in this example are made up. Your child can be the hero, with or without a photo. The picture at the top shows the moment, not these characters.
What happens in the story
In the example above:
- Leo asks for what he needs: a cuddle too.
- Mom makes room and says yes.
- The story shows both feelings: liking the baby, and missing time alone with Mom.
- Nothing is solved. The ending is a quiet moment together.
Talk-after card
Here are three gentle questions to talk about after this example. Best watched together, then followed by a chat or a game.
- What did Leo ask Mom for?
- What did Leo like about the baby? What was hard for him?
- What would you like us to do together while the baby sleeps?
Use the ones that feel right. Skip any you like.
What a cartoon can and can't do
- Research on preparing children for changes at home is thin. This story is one way to start the talk.
- Every family has its own pace.
- Each Zubby cartoon is made to be talked about together. It can't do the work of routine, patience or your child's doctor.
- If you are worried about your child's sleep, eating, fears or behavior, talk to your child's doctor, nurse or teacher.
- Zubby is a family storytelling tool, not a medical, therapeutic or educational treatment. Zubby cartoons have not been tested in studies.
What research says
We looked for studies on preparing a child for a new baby and found guidance, but no trials. [13]
- [13]Kramer L, Ramsburg D. Advice given to parents on welcoming a second child: a critical review. Family Relations. 2002;51(1):2–14. doi:10.1111/j.1741-3729.2002.00002.x
Zubby is a family storytelling tool, not a medical, therapeutic or educational treatment. Zubby cartoons have not been tested in studies.