15 Thoughtful Ways to Support Your New Mom Friend

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It’s hard to believe my little one is already 10 weeks old. Reflecting on those early days brings a mix of emotions, but one thing stands out: the incredible support we received from friends, family, and neighbors. Their creativity and practicality in offering help were truly remarkable. As I recall those moments, I want to share some effective ways you can assist your friend who just welcomed a newborn into their life. Here are 15 thoughtful suggestions:

1. Organize a meal train. One of the best gestures I received after both my births was a meal train. Websites like Foodtidings.com and Mealtrain.com make it easy to create meal calendars at no cost. We enjoyed meals brought to us for three weeks straight!
2. Deliver a home-cooked meal. Even if there’s no meal train, delivering a hearty meal for the entire family is a great way to show support. From homemade casseroles to favorite takeout, any substantial food is appreciated. Don’t forget that families need to eat throughout the day, so breakfast or lunch works too!
3. Offer to run errands at Target or Costco. On the day I went into labor, I had shopping lists ready for Target and Costco. Luckily, two friends asked if I needed anything from these stores after I returned from the hospital. Don’t be surprised if your friend has a long list ready for you!
4. Surprise them with groceries. In the early days, it can be overwhelming to remember what your family needs. Surprise them with a grocery delivery filled with essentials like snacks, fresh fruits, and quick meal options. Items like rotisserie chicken and ready-made salads are fantastic.
5. Take their older child out for a few hours. This was such a blessing! A friend took my toddler for a morning playdate, allowing me some precious one-on-one time with the baby. The house felt serene and clean without the usual chaos!
6. Invite the family out for a meal. A few weeks in, a friend asked if they could take us out to dinner instead of bringing a meal. It was a refreshing change, especially since I hadn’t left the house in days. Newborns are surprisingly easy to take out, so don’t hesitate to offer this!
7. Clean their home or hire a cleaning service. My mom helped out by cleaning our house almost daily in those first few weeks. If cleaning isn’t your forte, consider gifting them a cleaning service. What mom wouldn’t appreciate a tidy home?
8. Hold the baby while the mom showers or rests. Offer to come over and hold the baby so the new mom can take a break. Even half an hour of peace can feel luxurious to someone who’s been nursing around the clock.
9. Get their car washed. It’s going to be a while before your friend has the chance to clean their vehicle. Take the initiative to get it washed and return it in a more tolerable condition.
10. Bring gifts for all the kids. Gifts are always welcomed. Whether it’s diapers, clothes, or toys, make sure they’re practical. Bonus points for including something for the older siblings, as they may be feeling neglected during this transition.
11. Be mindful of your visit duration. It’s important to not overstay your welcome. New moms are often juggling a lot, so a short visit filled with love (and maybe some cookies) is preferred.
12. Check before bringing your kids. Not every mom is okay with other children visiting. Always communicate with your friend about this. If you do bring your kids, ensure they’re not overwhelming the newborn.
13. Practice good hygiene. Before holding the baby, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. This small gesture helps relieve your friend from feeling like a nag about cleanliness.
14. Offer genuine encouragement. Affirm your friend with kind words. Let her know she’s doing great, that her baby is beautiful, and reassure her that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Your uplifting presence can mean the world during tough days.
15. Avoid asking, “What can I do?” If you ask what you can help with, chances are they’ll say they’re fine. Instead, refer to the suggestions above and offer specific help based on what they need. Many new moms won’t ask for help outright.

I hope these tips prove useful! Now, if you’re looking for more insights on supporting new parents, check out this blog post on home insemination. And if you’re considering at-home options for starting a family, check out reputable retailers like Make a Mom for fertility supplements. For a comprehensive guide on pregnancy stages, visit March of Dimes, a wonderful resource for new parents.

In summary, providing support to a friend with a newborn can come in many forms. From meals to house cleaning, each gesture counts and can make a significant difference in their new journey. Remember that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact.