10+ Best Big Brother Books for 3-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to help your little one embrace the role of a big brother? Look no further! Our curated selection of Big Brother Books for 3-Year-Olds is designed to capture the imagination and excitement of soon-to-be siblings. From heartwarming stories to fun, engaging reads, we've gathered the best resources to ease the transition for your toddler. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that promise to make the journey of becoming a big brother a joyful adventure!

Fun Big Brother Books for 3-Year-Olds

• I'm a Big Brother by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Rosalinda Kightley
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: This story helps a new big brother understand his role and the exciting changes that come with the arrival of a new baby.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's designed to help little ones understand and accept the role of being a big brother, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility.
  • Perfect for: Young children who are about to become big brothers.

• Hello in There! A Big Sister's Book of Waiting by Jo Witek, illustrated by Christine Roussey
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Interactive
  • Synopsis: A big sister talks to her baby sibling still in the womb, sharing her excitement and curiosity about the world outside.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its interactive flaps and heartfelt story help siblings bond even before the baby is born, sparking an early interest in reading through play.
  • Perfect for: Children who are soon to be big sisters, encouraging them to engage with and feel connected to the new family member.

• You're the Biggest by Lucy Tapper and Steve Wilson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Celebrates the relationship between a new sibling and the big brother or sister, focusing on the milestones they will share.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of the older sibling's role and celebrates their part in the new baby's life, which can enhance a child's self-esteem and reading enjoyment.
  • Perfect for: Kids who have just become or are about to become older siblings, helping them feel important and included.

• Waiting for Baby by Rachel Fuller
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Board Book
  • Synopsis: A simple, straightforward book that prepares a toddler for the arrival of a new baby.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its clear and engaging images help explain the arrival of a new baby in a way that's easy for toddlers to understand, making reading fun and informative.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers who are soon to be older siblings, offering them a gentle introduction to the concept of a new family member.

• The New Baby by Mercer Mayer
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Little Critter is learning what it means to be a good big brother as he helps out with his new baby sister.
  • Why we recommend this book: The familiar character and relatable situations help ease the transition for new big brothers and sisters, making reading more enjoyable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love Little Critter and are adjusting to being an older sibling.

Educational Big Brother Books for 3-Year-Olds

• Big Brothers Are the Best by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Kirsten Richards
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Follows the story of a young boy who takes pride in showing his new baby sibling the ropes of family life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Family bonding, responsibility, early literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and heartwarming introduction to the joys and duties of being a big brother.
  • Perfect for: Young boys who have recently become or are about to become big brothers.

• My New Baby by Rachel Fuller
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Board Book
  • Synopsis: Illustrates a family welcoming a new baby and shows the older sibling's role in daily tasks.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, helping skills, understanding family dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: With simple text and clear illustrations, it effectively prepares toddlers for the arrival of a new sibling.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers and preschoolers who are expecting a new baby in the family.

• I Am a Big Brother by Caroline Jayne Church
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Celebrates the milestones and challenges a little boy faces as he becomes a big brother.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, family roles, self-esteem
  • Why we recommend this book: Its positive message and charming illustrations encourage older siblings to embrace their new role.
  • Perfect for: Boys who are new big brothers and need a boost in confidence about their new role.

• Brand-New Baby Blues by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Kelly Murphy
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Poetry
  • Synopsis: The story of a boy who deals with mixed feelings about the new baby taking up everyone's attention.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional expression, coping skills, rhythm and rhyme
  • Why we recommend this book: The poetic approach makes it a unique and engaging read for young children, helping them articulate their feelings.
  • Perfect for: Children who might be feeling a little jealous or overshadowed by the arrival of a new sibling.

• Maple & Willow Together by Lori Nichols
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Maple and her younger sister, Willow, navigate the ups and downs of sisterhood and learn to appreciate each other.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, problem-solving, family bonding
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully explores the dynamics between siblings with warmth and humor.
  • Perfect for: Young girls and boys who are adjusting to life with a younger sibling and learning about cooperation and love.

Challenging Big Brother Books for 3-Year-Olds

• Big Brother Daniel by Angela C. Santomero, illustrated by Jason Fruchter
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Daniel Tiger becomes a big brother and learns about the responsibilities and joys of his new role.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces concepts of patience and helping, which are advanced emotional skills for a 3-year-old.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and responsibility through a beloved character, helping young readers connect with the story.
  • Perfect for: Preschoolers who love Daniel Tiger and are stepping into the role of a big brother.

• Once Upon a Baby Brother by Sarah Sullivan, illustrated by Tricia Tusa
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Lizzie, who loves to tell stories, finds inspiration and sometimes frustration in the antics of her new baby brother.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a narrative that weaves fantasy and reality, challenging young minds to differentiate and engage creatively.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and the use of imagination, important aspects of cognitive development in young children.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy storytelling or those who might be feeling overshadowed by a new sibling.

• I'm a New Big Brother: A Pirate Pete Book by Amanda Li
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Interactive
  • Synopsis: Pirate Pete explores his new role as a big brother, with interactive buttons to press and sounds that engage young readers.
  • Why this book is challenging: The interactive elements require understanding and coordination, providing a multi-sensory challenge.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's interactive and fun, making the learning about sibling relationships engaging and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young children who enjoy interactive reading and are newly minted big brothers.

• What Brothers Do Best by Laura Numeroff, illustrated by Lynn Munsinger
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates all the wonderful things brothers can do, from climbing trees to sharing snacks and stories.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces a variety of verbs and actions, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension in young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the positive aspects of brotherhood, fostering a sense of pride and joy in the role.
  • Perfect for: Young boys who are big brothers and enjoy active storytelling.

• Monster Trouble! by Lane Fredrickson, illustrated by Michael Robertson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Winifred Schnitzel, who isn't afraid of anything, must figure out how to deal with monsters who won't let her sleep. Her clever solutions are an inspiration to her younger sibling.
  • Why this book is challenging: The playful use of rhyme and complex problem-solving themes are cognitively stimulating for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches problem-solving and bravery through entertaining rhymes and a spirited protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Creative children who enjoy a good monster story and learning through imaginative play.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to introduce your 3-year-old to the world of books, especially if they're about to become a big brother or sister, you're in the right place. Reading can be a fun and educational journey for them. Here are some great exercises to help develop good reading habits from an early age. These activities are designed to engage both of you, making reading a delightful bonding experience.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special corner in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and inviting space that encourages regular reading.
  • Tips: Let your child help in decorating the nook with their favorite colors or themes.

• Picture Walk
  • What it is: Flip through the pages of a book, looking at the pictures and talking about what you see before reading the text.
  • How it helps: Enhances prediction skills and sets a purpose for reading.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions about the pictures to stimulate your child’s imagination.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: You read a book aloud to your child, using expressive voices for different characters.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and listening skills, and models fluent reading.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the story, making the reading more engaging.

• Story Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out the story with your child after reading it.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and makes the reading experience interactive.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes for more fun and vivid storytelling.

• Book-Based Crafts
  • What it is: Create crafts related to the theme or characters of the book.
  • How it helps: Extends the reading experience and helps in retaining what was read.
  • Tips: Keep craft supplies handy and relate the activity directly to the story to reinforce details.

• Interactive Reading Apps
  • What it is: Use educational apps that allow children to interact with stories.
  • How it helps: Integrates technology with reading, making learning exciting and dynamic.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are age-appropriate and have educational value.

• Scheduled Reading Time
  • What it is: Dedicate a specific time each day for reading.
  • How it helps: Builds a routine that can enhance a lifelong habit of reading.
  • Tips: Be consistent with the timing to establish a strong routine.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about creating memories and learning together. By incorporating these fun and educational activities into your daily routine, you'll not only help your child develop good reading habits but also strengthen your bond. So, grab some books and start this wonderful journey today. Happy reading!