If a friend or family member has recently had a baby then it can be hard to know what to do for the best when it comes to offering your help and support, especially if they’re first-time parents. However, there are lots of ways you can go about supporting new parents, here are some tips:
Go at Their Pace
Having a new baby in the mix is undoubtedly an exciting time, which means that you probably want to rush around and meet them – but for new parents, it’s a busy and nerve-wracking time so you should go at their pace. It is normal for new parents to ask people not to visit straight away, don’t be offended. Instead, let them know that you would love to come and visit, but at a time that suits them and that there is no rush.
Offer Practical Help
Gifts are a really lovely gesture but they don’t often do much to help. The truth is that this is a busy time for new parents so looking at what you can do to make their life easier is much better. For example, can you come and look after the baby for an hour while they get a shower and relax? Are there some dinners you can cook that can go in the freezer to help make life a little easier for them? Can you do some tidying up?
Don’t Forget One of the Parents
It is easy to concentrate on mum when there is a new baby in the picture, but the truth is that it is a big change for both parents – when you’re offering good wishes and practical help, make sure you include both of them.
Ultimately, ask them what they need and how you can help. Listen to what their needs are & do what you can to support them at their own pace and when it comes to supporting new parents you won’t go far wrong.
If you have any tips on supporting new parents we’d love you to share them