How To Prepare Your Toddler For A Newborn Session!

Including your toddler in your newborn’s session can create some of the most meaningful images, but it’s not always easy. As a photographer and a mom, I know toddlers bring big energy and big feelings. With a little prep (and a lot of grace and faith), you can help them feel confident, included, and ready to shine.

Talk It Up Like an Adventure

In the days leading up to the session, start framing the experience as something fun and special. Toddlers love to be included, and they love stories, so turn the session into an adventure. Let them know they’ll be in pictures with their baby brother or sister and that their job is super important. Keeping it light and playful helps ease any nerves and gets them excited to participate, without adding pressure.

Schedule Around Their Best Time

Timing can make or break your toddler’s mood, so aim to book your session around the time of day when they’re usually happiest. Avoid planning during naptime or when they tend to be grumpy (which usually hits like clockwork!). If we can catch them during their natural “happy window,” we’re far more likely to get those sweet, snuggly sibling shots without any forced smiles or meltdowns.

Pack Mess Free Snacks & Small Treats

Toddlers are more cooperative when their bellies are full, but snacks also serve as great incentives when we need a quick reset. Bring a little stash of mess free options like puffs, crackers, or fruit snacks to keep them going during short breaks. I also suggest bringing a tiny “surprise” or reward, something like stickers, bubbles, or a small toy, just in case we need some encouragement. It’s not about bribery; it’s about giving them a win in a situation that might feel unfamiliar or overwhelming.

Dress for Comfort, Not Just Cute

While coordinating outfits are adorable, your toddler’s comfort is the priority. Choose soft, breathable fabrics and avoid anything itchy, tight, or restrictive, especially shoes or accessories they’re not used to wearing. If possible, involve them in choosing a small part of their outfit. It might seem minor, but giving them a choice makes them feel empowered and excited to show off their look.

Expect Wiggles, Giggles & Chaos

This might be the most important tip which is to go in with realistic expectations. Toddlers are naturally unpredictable. They might be sweet and cooperative one minute and totally uninterested the next, and that’s okay. Some of the most beautiful sibling shots happen in unplanned moments like a spontaneous hug, a goofy face, or a shy glance at the baby. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection. Let go of the pressure and trust the process.

Make Them Feel Like the Star

Throughout the session, take every chance to build your toddler up. Praise them for being gentle, kind, and patient. Point out how proud you are of the way they’re loving their new sibling. It’s easy for toddlers to feel pushed aside during the newborn phase, but moments like this where the spotlight is shared, can help them feel seen and valued. Let them know they’re not just “part of the picture”… they’re a huge part of this beautiful new chapter.

At the end of the day, the most meaningful photos aren’t the perfectly posed ones, they’re the ones that capture real connection, real emotion, and the beginning of a beautiful sibling bond. Toddlers bring energy, honesty, and a little unpredictability to newborn sessions, and that’s part of what makes these moments so special. With a bit of preparation and a lot of patience, you’ll not only walk away with sweet images, you’ll create memories your growing family will treasure forever.

And remember, if your toddler runs the show a little bit, that’s okay. I’m here to guide the session with flexibility, humor, and a deep understanding of both photography and parenthood. We’ve got this together!