Hello Baby

Jenni Overend Illustrator: Julie Vivas
1999 Also published as Welcome With Love

Hello Baby is a gentle, realistic picture book that tells the story of a home birth through the eyes of a young boy, Jack, as he waits with his siblings and father for the arrival of a new baby. Set in a cosy rural home, the book introduces children to the sights, sounds, and emotions surrounding birth in a calm and respectful way. The midwife’s role is lovingly portrayed, and the family is shown working together to support the birthing mother. Julie Vivas’ soft, expressive illustrations beautifully match the emotional tone of the story, offering a warm and honest glimpse into the birth experience.

Why It’s Included

This book reflects our values around birth as a natural, family-inclusive event and supports children in understanding what to expect in a gentle but truthful way. It avoids the sanitized or overly simplified narratives found in many books on the topic and instead honours both the emotional and physical reality of birth. The presence of a midwife, the depiction of breastfeeding, and the central role of the family in supporting the mother all align with the SNPN philosophy of respectful, connected parenting.

Who It’s For

Ideal for families planning a home birth, or those who want to prepare young children for the arrival of a sibling in an emotionally honest and supportive way. It’s especially helpful for children aged 3–8 who may be present during labour or birth, or who have questions about where babies come from that go beyond the superficial. This book may also be a useful resource for doulas, midwives, and childbirth educators supporting families with young children.