The Midwifes Visit by Kelly B. Jenkins

This gentle board book offers young children a reassuring window into the familiar routine of a home visit from a midwife, transforming a potentially unfamiliar healthcare scenario into a comforting and participatory experience. The simple, first-person narrative invites toddlers to join a sibling in helping the midwife check on the new baby, demystifying the process with calm, observational language. It provides a wonderful opportunity for parents to discuss new baby care, family roles, and the important work of healthcare providers in a supportive, low-stakes context. The story’s focus on anticipation and helpfulness makes the entire event feel like a positive, collaborative family moment.

What sets this book apart is its specific focus on a home-based, family-centered model of postpartum care, a topic rarely covered in early childhood literature. It is an especially valuable resource for families expecting a new baby, particularly those planning a home birth or utilizing midwifery care, as it helps older siblings understand what to expect. The narrative empowers little ones by framing them as capable helpers, fostering early empathy and a sense of belonging. By normalizing this nurturing form of healthcare, the book provides both comfort and valuable early learning about family dynamics and community roles.