In the whimsical world of family storytelling, you might picture your firstborn tenderly cradling their newborn sibling, planting sweet kisses, and forging an instant, everlasting bond. It’s a scene straight out of a fairy tale, right? Yet, reality often tells a different story, one where your toddler sizes up this new addition like they’re reading through a list of disappointing quarterly reports.
Take, for instance, one-year-old Theodore Diglio. His adorably unimpressed reaction to meeting his baby sister, Esmé, has gone viral on TikTok, and parents everywhere are absolutely loving his comically serious demeanor. Just picture him with his neatly combed hair, dressed in what seems to be a “middle management casual” outfit—a knitted sweater layered over a collared shirt, paired with jeans—gazing at Esmé with an expression that radiates skepticism.
Not Exactly the Hallmark Moment
Victoria, 33, from Mineola, New York, captured the moment for the internet to enjoy, and the response has been overwhelming, with over 3.3 million views on her video. She admits, “We thought he’d either welcome her with open arms or just shrug it off!” After all, he’s still pretty young, so Victoria and her partner didn’t expect Theodore to fully grasp the concept of a ‘sister.’ However, his reaction surprised everyone.
The online community couldn’t resist embracing Theodore’s corporate vibe. One user joked, “He took work off for this,” while another quipped, “He’s probably thinking, ‘this could have been an email.’” It seems that, to many observers, Theodore looked like he walked straight out of a board meeting, not quite ready to welcome the changes a new sibling brings.
Other comments highlighted his evident disappointment, with one user insightfully noting, “He isn’t mad. Just disappointed.” As one commentator put it perfectly, “Nobody even bothered to email him about the restructuring.” And while the situation is humorous, it captures the genuine confusion and hesitance many toddlers feel when faced with such a life-altering event.
From Boardroom to Brotherhood
Fortunately, Theodore’s initial reaction didn’t last forever. In a follow-up TikTok just five days later, little Theodore seemed to have approved the merger. He was gently resting Esmé on his lap and giving her sweet kisses on the forehead. It’s a heartwarming reminder that even the most serious little souls can soften up given a little time and exposure. Victoria shared that he now loves to give Esmé kisses and help with her feeding, proving that even the toughest negotiators can have an unexpectedly tender side.
When the Corner Office Becomes the Nursery Corner
If you’re gearing up to introduce your toddler to a new sibling, it can be helpful to know that there are effective ways to ease the transition. Experts at the Child Mind Institute provide some valuable tips, though we should probably set aside any notions of a smooth, cinematic moment that goes perfectly according to plan.
- Keep it Real: Be honest with your toddler about what life with a baby is like. Babies cry, need constant attention, and are a whole new ball game. No need to sugarcoat it—this is a full-time role!
- Schedule One-on-One Time: Just because a new team member is coming doesn’t mean your toddler should feel sidelined. Plan regular quality time to keep your strong bond intact.
- Get Them Involved: Letting your toddler pick out baby toys or help decorate the nursery can make them feel included, and who doesn’t want to feel their opinions matter when big changes are happening?
- Prepare Them for Your Hospital Stay: Explain that you’ll be leaving briefly but will return with a baby. Frame it like a special work trip, so your toddler knows what’s happening and can anticipate your return.
- Make Them Feel Important: Get your toddler involved in caring for the baby—fetching diapers or helping during bath time. Being promoted to “Big Helper” adds a sense of prestige to their new role.
Remember that your toddler’s initial response to their new sibling may not be the warmest welcome. Whether they appear skeptical or withdrawn initially, know that sibling dynamics can change and evolve. That uncertain stare can quickly transform into a protective embrace.
And should it all feel overwhelming, at least you’ll have a funny viral video to share—capturing that blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment of childhood confusion! After all, those comedic snippets have become their own kind of digital currency in parenting circles, and who couldn’t use a little extra laughter in the mix?
Image Source: insta_photos / Shutterstock
