I was very young when my first niece was born (10!) and in my late teens/early twenties when my 3 older nephews were born. When you are young, it's very easy for some girls to see baby's as wonderful cute playthings and just leave it at that. Being the age I was, I was definitely more consumed with my own life, and friends, and fun, more than making a connection with my siblings kids. At the time I felt like seeing the kids at family parties, birthdays, and holidays etc, was spending quality time with them. Looking back now, I realize those busy parties or short visits, just really weren't enough time to make strong connections with them. Round two (with three new nephews under 2, and a 3 year old niece) I am going that extra mile to spend time with them and their parents (my siblings/siblings-in-law) away from the rest of the family to foster deeper connections all around. I'm also trying to find some common ground to strengthen my ties with the older group. While he is young, hold him and talk to/read to him as much as you can so you can become a very familiar part of his life and make sure you plan visits to his house or trips to fun places (like park or library when he gets a little older), to have some quality time with him. Offer to do things WITH his mom or dad and him, and when he is a little older offer to take him places. And like AuntB02 said: spoil him like crazy!